Teams That Should See Their Records Rise
Miami Dolphins (1-15, 4 Net Close Losses)
It's really a no-brainier here... The only place the Dolphins can go is up. But despite a 1-15 season, this statistic suggests they should have won one or two more games. In fact, they had 5 Close Losses of 3 points or less with their lone win taking that total down to 4. Even with the new regime, it's not likely the Dolphins will be much of a contender this season. With the trade of Jason Taylor, it's become incredibly apparent that this team will be built through the draft and it will take time. I have faith in Parcells and I do believe he will bring this team into the playoff picture as soon as a year from now. But for now, 4-6 wins should be accurate.
New York Jets (4-12, 4 Net Close Losses)
Without a clearcut #2 team in the AFC East, the Jets could bounce back and become a playoff contender again. They solidified their 34 defense by bringing in pass rushers Vernon Gholston and Calvin Pace. David Harris was my favorite prospect in last years draft and is destined for a pro bowl appearance. The offense is good enough to get by as well. I can see the Jets winning 8 or 9 games this season.
Oakland Raiders (4-12, 4 Net Close Losses)
It will be tough for the Raiders to become contenders with such inexperience on offense but I do see an increase in wins from last season. We have no idea how JaMarcus Russell and Darren McFadden will play although we do know that defensive secondary is very solid. Will Al Davis' offseason spending spree payoff? We shall see, but for now I'll say 6 or 7 wins for the silver and black.
St. Louis Rams (3-13, 3 Net Close Losses)
Similar to the Dolphins situation, the only place the Rams can go is up. But the Rams have the talent to turn a 3-13 season around into a possible playoff appearance. The 2007 season was plagued by injuries, especially along the offensive line, holding back that fairly dynamic offense. If their defense steps it up there's no question this could be a 9 win team. But for now I'll go with an 8-8 season.
Pittsburgh Steelers (10-6, 3 Net Close Losses)
Surprised to see a 10-6 team with 3 Net Close Losses? I'm not. This team did not play up to their potential last season and I see a completely different story this season. Big Ben returns as one of the best in the game and with the dynamic attack of Willie Parker and the addition of Rashard Mendenhall, that offense is scary. Look for Santonio Holmes to break out as a top wide receiver too. The defense is one of the most reliable in the NFL which means this Steelers team is destined for great things in 2008. I'm predicting 12 or 13 wins and a spot as the #2 team in the AFC.
Washington Redskins (9-7, 2 Net Close Losses)
You're probably saying there's no way the Redskins win more than 9 games this season. Well, I think they finally have the right formula for success. Jason Campbell could very well be last season's Tony Romo. He's coming into Jim Zorn's West Coast offense which should benefit his playing style. Clinton Portis should have a big year and with the selections of Devin Thomas and Malcolm Kelly, the wide receiver position went from a minor weakness to a strength. With the aquisition of Jason Taylor, they finally add something to the defense that they haven't seen since Dexter Manley wore a Burgendy and Gold. I think they are a playoff team but not yet ready for the big show. I'm going with a 9 or 10 win season and a wild card birth.
Philadelphia Eagles (8-8, 2 Net Close Losses)
Had I changed the parameters of this study and made a close win or loss only 4 points or less, the Eagles would have had 4 Net Close Losses. The Eagles will look to rebound from a less than stellar year and I believe they are built to do just that. With Kevin Kolb breathing down Donavan's back, I could see Donavan come out and prove he's worthy similar to performances we've seen from Jon Kitna or Kurt Warner when the pressure is waiting in the wings. With the pickup of Asante Samuel, the secondary is downright deadly. This team is pretty well built and there's no reason they are out of contention to win the NFC East. The only thing holding them back... the NFC East. One or two teams out of that division are going to get the short end of the stick and I have yet to pick one that will. For the Eagles, I'm predicting 10 wins. (Yes, I know I've given every NFC East a winning record. But I can't seem to find an odd one out!)
Minnesota Vikings (8-8, 2 Net Close Losses)
Some predict Minnesota to win the Super Bowl. I won't go that far, but I will say this team has improved significantly in the offseason. They addressed their major needs on defense with one of my favorite, most underrated safeties in Madieu Williams. The acquisition of Jared Allen only bolsters an incredible defensive line. The wild card to watch out for is the guy lining opposite of Allen, Ray Edwards. I was high on Edwards coming out of Purdue and since then Minnesota coaches have been raving about him. The defense is set in stone but the main question is how Tarvaris Jackson will handle the offensive duties. He has Adrian Peterson behind him so the offense won't be stagnant, but if they can't throw the football I'm not sure how far this team will go. Right now, I'm predicting a #1 or #2 finish in the NFL North with a 10 win season.
Atlanta Falcons (4-12, 2 Net Close Losses)
The Falcons are no playoff contender but they do show some promise. Getting past the Michael Vick saga was tough but they've finally put it behind them. I've been a Matt Ryan advocate since his junior season and I believe he's destined for great things. BUT he is a rookie quarterback behind an iffy offensive line and I'm not sure how successful he'll be with little experience. Chris Redman will likely start but I'm predicting we'll see Ryan mid way through the year. The defense is decent but showcases inexperienced talent that has yet to prove they are elite. The Falcons will likely finish with 5 or 6 wins, especially with a coaching staff too.
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