2009 AFC South Predictions
August 29, 2009
Heading into the 2008 season many were saying that the AFC South was going to be the best division in football, but after the Colts, Jaguars, and Texans started the season going a combined 4-8 in the first four weeks of the season it let the Tennessee Titans get off to a fast start, and they never looked back as they cruised to a 13-3 finish and the best record in the AFC. The Colts managed to save their season and finish up just one game back at 12-4, but neither the Colts or the Titans could manage a win in the postseason. Here is a look at how I see the 2009 season playing out in the AFC South.
1. Indianapolis Colts (12-4)
The Colts finished the 2008 regular season on a very impressive 9 game winning streak, and thanks to that they finished with 12 wins or more for the 6th straight season. This year the Colts must adjust to a new coaching staff as Tony Dungy retired and the team handed over the head coaching job to assistant Jim Caldwell. While this could be a problem for a lot of NFL teams, I don’t think it will have near as much an effect as some might think. Lets be honest the offensive doesn’t need a coach as long as Peyton Manning is taking the snaps, and there is enough talent on the defense that they should adjust quickly to new defensive coordinator Larry Coyer. I look for the streak to continue, and the Colts to be a legit Super Bowl threat when the postseason rolls around. Bet the Colts +130 to win the AFC South at Sportsbook.com.
2. Tennessee Titans (10-6)
There are some question marks surrounding the defending AFC South champs this season, as they must show they can still be a dominant defense without Pro Bowl defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth. I think they will be just fine, but its hard telling exactly what effects the loss will have until the season is here. I am not the biggest Kerry Collins fan, but he seems like the right guy to lead this offense. I look for another monster season out of running backs Chris Johnson and LenDale White, as the two combined for nearly 2000 yards and 24 touchdowns last season. Bet the Titans +225 to win the AFC South at Sportsbook.com.
If you are planning on betting on the NFL this season, I strongly recommend you take the time to at least sign up for an account at BetUS. If you sign up today, you can earn up to 145% in sign up bonuses!
3. Houston Texans (8-8)
There is no question that the Texans are heading in the right direction, and if they play to their full potential I really believe this team could fight for the division crown this season. The Texans have really done a good job at loading up on young talent, and I am excited to see what this offense will do if healthy in 2009. The reason I have them this low is I just don’t think they have a good enough defense to compete with the Colts and the Titans for the top in this division. Bet the Texans +350 to win the AFC South at Sportsbook.com.
4. Jacksonville Jaguars (6-10)
It’s hard to imagine that the Jaguars were picked by many to win the division last year after the team managed to go just 5-11. The Jaguars did get hit hard by injuries, especially to the offensive line, and that showed in the decline of the running game. This year running back Maurice Jones-Drew could be ready for a Pro Bowl season, as he is now the feature back with the departure of Fred Taylor. The Jags did add veteran wide out Torry Holt to the mix, but it’s not the offense I am worried about, it’s the defense. I think the Jaguars stay at the bottom of this division again this season, but I look for this team to be back in the mix as soon as 2010. Bet the Jaguars +350 to win the AFC South at Sportsbook.com.
Looking for some help with your NFL predictions this season? Take some time and check out our expert NFL picks from the top NFL handicappers in the business. Also, we strongly encourage that you check out our live NFL odds feed to make sure you have the best odds for every game you bet on.
Comments
Got something to say?
You must be logged in to post a comment.
