By Spike Measer, Big Time Sports
NFC EAST
Dallas - The ‘Boys are still smarting from their playoff loss last season. A lack of focus and overconfidence dealt a humbling blow in 2007, but that won’t be a problem this year. This is the most talent-laden club in the conference, and could easily replicate that gaudy 13-3 record from a season ago. Terrell Owens and Jason Witten return as powerful weapons for athletic playmaking quarterback Tony Romo. Marion Barber will be the full time featured back, but rookie Felix Jones will make a significant contribution. The O-Line is already solid and will benefit from new position coach Hudson Houck. Dallas was the second-highest scoring team in the NFL last season, and should be near the top again this time around. The stop unit is a very capable bunch, playing a 3-4 scheme featuring DE Marcus Spears and OLB DeMarcus Ware (14 sacks in ‘07). The secondary of Newman, Hamlin, Williams and Henry is one of the best in the league. PK Nick Folk has a strong leg. With back-to-back road games only once, and 4 of their last 6 at home, anything less than a trip to the Super Bowl will be a disappointment. This team clearly warrants being the favorite in the NFC.
By Spike Measer, Big Time Sports
AFC EAST
New England - 18 wins and one GIANT loss later, the Pats are quite capable of running the table again, including a win in SB XLIII on the first Sunday in February 2009 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. The schedule is VERY favorable, the offense remains extremely potent, and Bill Belichick is still the best coach in the game. The concerns are on defense, where Asante Samuel’s departure leaves a considerable hole in the secondary. The linebackers are on the wrong side of 30 (Bruschi 35, Vrable 33), and that could be a weak spot against AFC playoff foes. Uncharacteristically, there have been some off-season legal issues for several players. The Patriots will win the division with room to spare, and make another deep run in the post season.