Atlanta Falcons: Ranking the NFC Divisions
Nov 30, 2014; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) as New England Patriots outside linebacker Akeem Ayers (55) provides pressure during the game against the New England Patriots at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports
2. NFC North
On paper, the NFC North could be one of the strongest divisions in football. The Packers and Lions combined for 23 wins in 2014 — more than the entire NFC South.
January 18, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) throws against the Seattle Seahawks during the second half in the NFC Championship game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
The Green Bay Packers remain the team to beat, and they could well be the best team in football right now. Green Bay own as good an offense as any team.
Led by MVP quarterback Aaron Rodgers, the Packers also have stars in receivers Jordy Nelson and Randall Cobb as well as running back Eddie Lacy.
A strong offensive line and plenty of depth at each skill position makes this unit scary. They have a good enough defense to win games also.
Behind them, there will be strong competition to overtake the Packers.
For me, the frontrunners are the Minnesota Vikings. With a growing force on defense leading the way, the Vikings’ offense should now too make big strides.
Teddy Bridgewater enters his second year, and he will be helped by Adrian Peterson‘s return. If Peterson plays like the AP we remember, look out for the this team.
Detroit may have lost Ndamukong Suh and Nick Fairley, but the addition of Haloti Ngata softens the blow. Will their defense be as strong? No, but it will still be a decent unit.
They have added plenty of firepower on offense, bolstering their offensive line and also adding versatile running back Ameer Abdullah. If Matthew Stafford can improve on last year, the offense will be among the NFL’s best.
Chicago are rebuilding right now, but they aren’t a million miles away. Some strong additions to their defense will help, and receiver Kevin White will ensure the offense is just as strong even with the loss of Brandon Marshall.
Let’s not forget the excellent coaching staff led by John Fox, either.
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