2013 NFC East Predictions
Historically NFC East is one of the toughest divisions in the league, and this season it promises to be just as close yet again. Always consistent in throwing a genuine contender into the playoffs, each of the four teams will be looking to improve on last term’s fortunes.
Who has the best shot at making a move deep into post-season play this year?
WASHINGTON REDSKINS – 2012: 10-6, EAST CHAMPIONS, LOST IN WILD CARD
2012 was meant to be a transitional year. They had explosive talent to nurture in their rookie class, but instead those newcomers helped the Redskins to the East division title. Just as the season seemed over they racked up 7 straight wins only to see their season end in the first round of the playoffs. Robert Griffin III has recovered well from his knee injury and will look to establish the form that made him the most exciting rookie talent in the league last year. He will have a target on his front and back now, so will happily share the workload with the other first year sensation running back Alfred Morris. If they are to repeat the highs of last season they will have to make home advantage count, they were only 5-3 at FedEx Field in 2012, having said that if they can repeat the 5-1 inside the division they could be well on their way to post season play again.
NEW YORK GIANTS – 2012: 9-7
After winning it all in 2011 it was a disappointing campaign to back it up, but they remained a team that could beat anyone on their day. Head coach Tom Coughlin won’t settle for anything less than being in contention, so look for the G-Men to bounce back this year. Eli Manning is still a solid passer who when hot, can pick any opponent apart. Something that let New York down last time was the defence, ranked 22nd overall it found it hard to contain teams both on the ground and through the air. If they can improve in this area then the Giants will be in good shape. The long offseason saga of star receiver Victor Cruz finally ended when the wideout signed a lucrative contract extension. Now all he has to do is show he’s worth the big salary, another piece of the Giants’ puzzle that when it all comes together is a real genuine threat to make a deep playoff run.
DALLAS COWBOYS – 2012: 8-8
The team that everyone loves to hate, has of late been the team that everyone ends up laughing at. There can be a very good argument made that on paper this is the most talented team in the NFC, perhaps even the entire league. So what goes wrong at the end of every year? That situation has been documented over and again, so lets see where the Cowboys can fulfil all that promise and turn the paper dream into reality. The key this year is not so much the playing personnel because that hasn’t changed so much, apart from getting older and wiser. The real change is in the coaching staff. Head coach Jason Garrett has been relieved of his offense playcalling duties, this now falls on Bill Callahan, and the defense is now controlled by Tampa 2 maestro Monte Kiffin. These gents could be the difference makers.
PHILADELPHIA EAGLES – 2012: 4-12
After a strong 3-1 start, the 2012 season was a complete wreck. Head Coach Andy Reid was just going through the motions by the time they got swamped 42-7 by the Giants in the last game. So, a new era has been ushered in and Chip Kelly, former University of Oregon head coach, has been handed the tough job of resurrecting the Eagles. A job that could take time, but with any regime change the twist in fortune and fresh approach could see a quick U-turn. First and foremost will be a back-to-basics lesson. Kelly needs to regain the teams confidence, and them have them on board as he tries to install his style of football upon them. The best thing right now for the Eagles is that no one expects anything from them, and that should play into their hands. Any better than the four wins from last year will be greeted with optimism for the future. It’s a tough gig though and the baying Philly crowd may have to put up with some mediocre stuff this year.
ROUNDUP AND PREDICTION
Something tells me that only one team will enter the postseason from this division. Therefore consistency through the year will be key. Washington will probably go as far as RG3’s legs can carry them and teams will be more prepared for him now. If Dallas can get to grips with Kiffin’s schemes and what seems like a fast playcalling system in the offense they will be dangerous. The Giants and Eagles will be looking for strength from their defences if they are to stay in the hunt.
