NFC South Power Rankings: Preseason Week 2 standings

Nov 9, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Atlanta Falcons wide receiver Julio Jones (11) runs past Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Johnthan Banks (27) and outside linebacker Lavonte David (54) during the second quarter at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Fast approaching is the 2015 NFL season, and all four teams from the NFC South are relieved for a fresh start. Last year was an embarrassment for this division, which was by far the worst the NFL had to offer.

The NFC South mustered just 22 victories between them, with only 12 of them coming outside of the division. Carolina somehow finished top with a 7-8-1 record, with Tampa Bay bottom on 2-14.

Well it’s a new season and there is a sense of optimism for all four teams. The Panthers feel they have the defense to win them games and enough playmakers on offense to put up points. New Orleans added some talent to their ailing defense, particularly with big free agent signing Brandon Browner.

Atlanta needed someone to hit the quarterback, and got their man Vic Beasley Jr. with the eighth overall pick. Beasley is the all-time sack leader in Clemson. They added Brooks Reed and Justin Durant via free agency and drafted running back Tevin Coleman.

Even Tampa Bay has something to smile about. At last, have the Buccaneers got their quarterback? Jameis Winston has the pressure of a franchise on his shoulders, but he could be the man to finally lead them back into the postseason.

Next: No. 4