NFC South Preview
Kristian Wiles
September 9, 2009
Posted under Atlanta Falcons, Carolina Panthers, NFC South, New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Atlanta Falcons
Summary: The Falcons were the biggest surprise in the NFL last season. No one could have predicted how well QB Matt Ryan was going to play his rookie season. I don’t see a sophomore slump either. According to everyone around him, Ryan works hard for his success and he hasn’t let up. As for the rest of the team, we will see if last year was a fluke or if Atlanta can make it happen yet again.
Who to Watch: It is hard to overlook Atlanta’s high-powered offense but it is clear that the next step for this team is to solidify their defense. The loss of veteran players like Keith Brooking and Lawyer Milloy is tough to absorb but a good mix of veterans and new faces will help fill their shoes. LB Mike Peterson is potentially the Falcons best addition of the summer reuniting with head coach Mike Smith while trying to get back to his 2005 form.
Fantasy Picks: There are two fantasy powerhouses on this team in RB Michael Turner and TE Tony Gonzales. Both are coming off huge years in 2008 and each is rated at the top of the draft board in their positions. QB Ryan should build on success from last year with more weapons and a year under his belt.
Projected Finish: 10-6, 1st in the division
Carolina Panthers
Summary: It is widely noted that Carolina has had difficulty following a winning season with another. Will 2008 & 2009 be the back-to-back winners they have been working for this off-season or yet another disappointment? The return of one of the most dynamic backfields in the NFL, DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart, should help this team play effectively keeping Delhomme’s decision making simple and the defense off the field in the 3rd and 4th quarter.
Who to Watch: Doesn’t it seem like Carolina has had the same QB and WR combo since the expansion team was created? I was hoping that Carolina would go after a QB in the draft or free agent market but they stuck with veteran Jake Delhomme. After his 5 INT showing against Arizona in the playoffs the Panthers better hope that he doesn’t cost them games this season.
Fantasy Picks: The running back duo of Williams and Stewart accounted for 28 TDs and over 2300 yards last season. Williams is the first pick here but don’t rule out picking up Stewart in the later rounds. WR Smith has been an injury risk for the last couple seasons but still can put up numbers as a playmaker. My advice, stay clear of Delhomme.
Projected Finish: 8-8, 3rd in the division
New Orleans Saints
Summary: The Saints accomplished a lot last year as they rolled on offense despite the loss of Bush and Colston for much of the year. If they can come close to matching that performance then they will be dangerous. Even assuming offensive success, the defense must improve in order for New Orleans to make the playoffs. Hiring defensive coordinator Gregg Williams will help. If he can turn this new squad into a solid defense you could see the Saints playing in January.
Who to Watch: RB Reggie Bush has been a star since he was drafted in 2006 but has not yet lived up to the expectations put on him by those of us that watched him at USC. He has reportedly been working this summer to become a more “downhill runner” than in the past. No matter how he runs, he needs to stay healthy this season and produce to avoid the label of “NFL bust.”
Fantasy Picks: QB Drew Brees is the top QB on many expert’s boards. He should throw for at least 4,000 yards again this season. WR Marques Colston is back healthy and poised to reclaim his spot as Brees’ favorite target. Look for him to have a big year if he and Brees can stay healthy. RB Bush should put up some points as the premiere back, how many is yet to be seen.
Projected Finish: 9-7, 2nd in the division
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Summary: Over the last several years the Bucs have become a team with very little star power. Departures of big names on defense along with a series of busts on offense have led the team to an uncertain place. New head coach Raheem Morris has his work cut out for him with this team but might just be able to rally the role players around their leaders at QB and LB.
Who to Watch: The defense will continue to be the strength of Tampa Bay especially at linebacker and in the secondary. The offense remains the biggest question mark for the Buccaneers. QB Byron Leftwich could be looking at his final chance as a starter in this league. Leftwich is a proven winner but has been susceptible to injury over the last few seasons. If he is able to win some games and stay healthy he might just resurrect his place as a star in the NFL.
Fantasy Picks: This is a short list. QB Leftwich will start the season and could fit into Tampa Bay’s approach of running first, throwing second, and managing the game. This will not get you many points. Antonio Bryant could score you some points at wide receiver with something to prove after being denied a contract extension. RB Derrick Ward could emerge as the Bucs new star. All three are big ifs.
Projected Finish: 5-11, 4th in the division
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