ust look at the playoff participants each year over the past decade. Half the teams are new each year. There is tremendous turnover in the teams that qualify for the playoffs. It's hard to maintain continued success as football is now a year to year business. But its what the NFL wants. A few great teams, a few lousy teams and everyone else in that 7-9, 8-8 or 9-7 mix fighting for the final playoff spots. Parity (or mediocrity) keeps fans interested throughout.
That's why what Peyton did for the Colts and now Denver and what Brady does for the Patriots is beyond remarkable. Those two immortals don't let their teams have down years.
It's way too early for any final prognostication. Teams that go deep in the playoffs and perhaps win the SB are those playing great in December not October. Obviously, 1/2 way through Dallas is a major surprise. I thought they'd be mediocre at best. Their defense is playing beyond any one's expectations. But again, we've seen this script before. November/December is where Romo/Cowboys struggle. At this point (especially if they beat Washington tonight), they'd have to have a major (even for Romo) collapse to not get into the playoffs. Atlanta was horrible last year, so they are again, horrible. I am not surprised. Houston is playing a little better than I had anticipated. Detroit's defense has really stepped it up and is carrying the team in the absence of Calvin Johnson. Seattle has been somewhat of a disappointment, but again, coming off a SB win, and loosing several players, it may not be that surprising. I like the 49er's to finish very strong, especially when they get a few of their key defensive players back.
The next month (sort of like Saturday at a Golf tournament) is when teams begin to make a move. Those teams who believe they are playoff contenders will put themselves in great position entering December to make a postseason run.
Should be interesting..... May the football Gods shine brightly on the Black and Gold
