NFC DIVISION WINNERS

1) PACKERS+

The Packers lock up at number one and I have high hopes for them again. Aaron Rodgers returns to his squad, there’s more optimism in the run game, and the receivers look more positive than the past couple of years. The defense will also be more formidable with an improved defensive front.

2) BUCCANEERS

3) RAMS

4) GIANTS

WILD CARD

5) SEAHAWKS+

6) 49ERS+

The 49ers steal the sixth spot and lock up there. My source filled me in on the receivers that made the 53-man roster early before the announcement, and I like them. They are Brandon Aiyuk, Deebo Samuel, Trent Sherfield (Lance’s fave target), Mohamed Sanu, Jalen Hurd (potential redzone threat), and Jauan Jennings (potential deep-threat playmaker). It’s unfortunate that Richie James wasn’t retained on the roster as a special teams returner, so someone else must take that spot. The rest of the depth looks solid and is ready for a playoff return.

7) SAINTS

The Saints have the seventh spot for now. If Jameis Winston doesn’t force too much downfield and learns to pick apart the defense with short and medium passes too, the offense will be fine and Alvin Kamara won’t be burdened with the access load on offense. However, Michael Thomas is placed on PUP and Adam Trautman has a foot injury. Who will be Winston’s and Taysom Hill’s go-to target for the time being?

OUTSIDE LOOKING IN

BEARS

COWBOYS

Dak Prescott says he’s ready to play this upcoming Thursday. Now the decision becomes very difficult. The Cowboys offense is very dangerous compared to the Giants. However, the Boys’ defense remains to be seen even though addition of linebackers Micah Parsons and Jabril Cox from the draft will eventually help improve that side. Can they play better and also stay healthy? Is Mike McCarthy the right fit too? COVID last season limited his opportunity to getting to know the players, but I’m waiting to hear anything positive about him. We’ll see where I stand with them and the Giants before Thursday.

VIKINGS