NFC DIVISION WINNERS

1) PACKERS

The Packers are ready and loaded for a Super Bowl run. The key part to watch for is the offensive and defensive lines, which is always a critical part for the Packers. A solid season out of them will be enough to say the Packers are dangerous this season.

2) RAMS

The Rams lock up at two for the NFC but is poised for their home field Super Bowl run too. Their defense will be as dangerous as usual and will play critical in every situation. The offense should be fine with Matthew Stafford. I doubt there’s any change, but the running back position will be the biggest question this season. That may be what makes or breaks their year.

3) BUCCANEERS

The Bucs downgrade to three, but they will defend their title. Everybody returns, especially Tom Brady, and Suh is back off the COVID list for Thursday’s game. Why are they at three you say? NFC is up in competition, returning from injuries and COVID-19 for the most part. Tampa must be careful how they approach this season as there are plenty of teams coming are targeting them. They play 10 opponents that have a good or an elite defense, and Brady is not mobile.

4) GIANTS

The Giants edge out for the division title, but that decision was difficult. Despite COVID and injuries affecting this roster, progression was there and their 2020 schedule, including the game against Tampa backs it up. New York’s defense is underrated and should be formidable this season with a good front seven. The offense didn’t make much strides, but a lot was hindered by Saquon Barkley’s injury and the offensive line’s struggles. That led to Daniel Jones’s underwhelming performance, going from 24 touchdown passes and 12 interceptions in 2019 to 11 touchdowns and 10 interceptions last season. Also, new offensive coordinator Jason Garrett didn’t get his opportunity to knowing the offense due to distancing from COVID over the summer. The team will slowly develop at the beginning, and everything should come together to where they’ll compete for the division title.

WILD CARD

5) SEAHAWKS

They are a solid wild card team with Russell Wilson on their side. Defense should be slightly improved and the run game should be good too. Their schedule presents a challenge after their bye week in Week 9. Five of their last nine games are on the road, including at Green Bay, Washington, Los Angeles, and Arizona. Will the offensive line be stronger this season?

6) 49ERS

The 49ers should bounce back after an injury-riddled and COVID-filled season. San Fran’s defense is elite no matter who’s in the starting lineup. The offense may improve in more areas after drafting Trey Lance and Trey Sermon, and potentially setting up the most interesting receiving core in the organization. The issue will be the offensive line’s health and the protection of Jimmy G and/or Trey Lance. The Niners could’ve climbed to five over the Seahawks after adding cornerback Josh Norman on Sunday, but he must prove himself.

7) VIKINGS

Minnesota surprisingly nabs the seventh spot over the Saints and Bears. Mike Zimmer’s defense has a chance to bounce back. 2020 was Zimmer’s worst defense since taking over as head coach in 2014. The offense made strides last season with Dalvin Cook playing 100% healthy and a whole season. Receiver Justin Jefferson was the best replacement after Stefon Diggs left for Buffalo. It’s possible they climb in the NFC standings and challenge Green Bay for the division.