Following the conclusion of the 2nd week of the 2015 NFL Preseason the final roster spots and position battles are starting to become a bit clearer. Last week we discussed some similar topics that were further confirmed. Jimmy Garappolo found his groove completing 28/33 passes. Zach Mettenberger again put on a show leaving little doubt he deserves a shot at the starting gig. Did anyone see that laser pass to Chase Coffman? Tyrod Taylor even proved that he deserves the opportunity to start after impressing this week. Without further ado let’s see what we learned after week 2 of the 2015 NFL Preseason.
The Philadelphia Eagles Are The Favorites To Win The NFC East:
While the Eagles were always serious contenders to win the division this year it’s hard to argue that any team has been more impressive this preseason. After a blowout 40-17 win over Baltimore this week it is time to take Philadelphia a bit more seriously. Despite their impressive preseason showing it is safe to say head coach Chip Kelly is certainly saving his best play calling for the regular season. While the Eagles season my rest on the health of quarterback Sam Bradford he responded well after being hit twice in his debut. Terrell Suggs took a shot low on Bradford while 330 pound Brandon Williams leveled Bradford but he was resilient and led Philadelphia to a touchdown on his lone possession. If Bradford can regain the confidence in his knee it appears Philadelphia will have on of the top five offenses, and don’t get me started about Jordan Mathews’ potential as he is a must have for fantasy owners.
The NFC South Is Wide Open:
The Carolina Panthers entered this season as the favorites to repeat after winning it last year with a record of 7-8-1. Following the season ending injury to 6’7″ Kelvin Benjamin really puts a damper on Carolina’s chances to repeat. Rookie 2nd round pick Devin Funchess now becomes the Panthers most important player as he will have some big shoes to fill “literally”. After running a 4.70 at this year’s NFL combine his best position may actually be at tight end but the Panthers will need him to become Cam’s trusted target on the outside. The big question is whether the Panthers can hold off the Falcons, Saints, and Buccaneers.
Atlanta went through some coaching changes that should help the team moving forward into 2015. Dan Quinn was brought in to fix this putrid defense. After watching the Jets put up 30 on Atlanta this week it is safe to say Pete Carroll has the most to do with Seattle’s defensive success as the Seahawks didn’t miss a beat when Gus Bradley left 3 years ago. The biggest addition to Atlanta may in fact be offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan, the son of future hall of fame coach Mike Shanahan. Let’s not forget the Shanahan’s were the only coaches to make RG3 look successful in the pros. If Kyle Shanahan can get creative with Matt Ryan and company it appears Atlanta could find themselves back into the post season.
The Saints appear to be underdogs because of the offseason trade of Jimmy Graham but could absolutely win this division because of the veteran leadership of Sean Payton and Drew Brees. Center Max Unger looks to have strengthened up the offensive line while Brandin Cooks appears to be hitting his stride in year two. The defense is the real concern in New Orleans as Rob Ryan has this unit in complete shambles. The defense has to become a better unit if this team has any chance of putting together a successful season.
Tampa Bay even has a shot even after finishing 2014 with the league’s worst record. An 8-8 record could be enough in a weak division. The biggest addition was first overall pick Jameis Winston who gives the Bucs their franchise quarterback. If famous Jamies can do his best impressions of Cam Newton’s rookie year the Bucs could find themselves in the postseason. Mike Evans and Vincent Jackson will help the rookie quaterbacks development for sure. Head coach Lovie Smith will look to hone his defensive unit in year two which could be the deciding factor on their season.
The Vikings Are Going To Surprise People In 2015:
When looking for a sleeper team in the NFL it’s best to look at the coaching staff that has the potential to turn things around. Look no further than the Minnesota Vikings as the 2nd year combination of Norv Turner and Mike Zimmer should have Viking fans excited for 2015. 2nd year quarterback Teddy Bridgewater has been nothing but spectacular this preseason. Wonder if the Browns organization is shaking their heads for passing on Bridgewater for Johnny Football? When adding Adrian Peterson to the backfield the Vikings offense all the sudden looks pretty dangerous. Not to mention the Vikings have plenty of targets including Mike Wallace, Charles Johnson, Cordarelle Paterson, and Kyle Rudolph. The defense is stout to with a dangerous pass rush in Everson Griffin and Anthony Barr. Incoming rookies Trae Waynes and Eric Kendricks will also help the defense. Could Minnesota make the Playoffs this year? Absolutely, the Packers of course took a step back after losing Jordy Nelson for the year. Green Bay is still likely the favorites but make no mistake about it losing Jordy Nelson is a devastating blow.
