Around the NFL: NFC South

[Schneed10]

Panthers 11-5: Jake Delhomme showed a lot last year, he carried the team down the stretch while the running game was non-existent. Steve Smith is back, he's one of the best.

Falcons 10-6: I'm with Matty on these first two teams so far. Vick definitely has struggled, but I don't think he's overrated. The Falcons win because he is the threat that he is. When you're a defensive coordinator you have to account for his speed, and that limits the ways you can dictate to the offense. Vick's presence opens up numerous opportunities for his teammates, especially Dunn and Duckett. This defense is also strong.

Bucs 7-9: I think Cadillac will infuse a lot into the offense, and they are starting to get some quality receiving. Gruden is also one of the best coaches around, but I'm not sold on the defense. The QB situation is likely to squander a win or two in my opinion; I'm not a Brian Griese fan.

Saints 6-10: Their talent is so much better than this, I think the reason they underachieve consistently all comes back to Jim Haslett. I think he's easily the worst coach in the NFL. This team has no discipline. They plan to run Deuce into the ground this year, which is smart. But I think Brooks will squander too many chances by turning the ball over.