NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS
The Patriots continue to stay competitive as long as Bill Belichick is their coach and Tom Brady is their quarterback. Of course, New England is also fortunate to have returning o-linemen like Dan Koppen and Logan Mankins, as well as newcomers such as Nate Solder. The Patriots receiver core also introduces Chad Ochocinco, who hopes to make an immediate impact to a shifting receiver core. On defense, the Patriots' D-line looks to be especially powerful, with the likes of Shaun Ellis, Albert Haynesworth, and Vince Wilfork. Overall, New England should continue to "do what they do", although the division crown may not be as easy to attain this year.
NEW YORK JETS
Arguably New England's biggest rival (even bigger than the Colts), the Jets once again have Super Bowl aspirations. Rex Ryan will try to lead his motley crew towards the promised land, which, after a failed bid for Nnamdi Asomugha, may be even more inspired to drive for success. Mark Sanchez will have a new toy this year in Plaxico Burress. Although Burress has been away from the game for a while, his sheer size should allow him to continue to dominate shorter corners. On defense, the impeccable duo of Cromartie and Revis should continue to puzzle opposing quarterbacks.
MIAMI DOLPHINS
The Dolphins had a QB controversy brewing over the offseason, with many Miami fans wanting another option over current incumbent Chad Henne. Henne has struggled to remain consistent during his tenure in Miami, and the loss of his top two backfield buddies puts even more stress on his shoulders. Fortunately, the team reached out to grab Reggie Bush, the former Saint who has a knack for flashy play in open space but limited ability to run between the tackles. Overall, this Miami team has the weapons necessary to succeed, but that success rides solely on the performance of Henne.
BUFFALO BILLS
It's been a long time since the dominant early 90s Bills teams. However, the Bills now seem to be on their way back to a respectable record. Ryan Fitzpatrick is a better quarterback than people take credit for, and Fred Jackson provides stable support in the backfield (and considering Buffalo's shoddy o-line, that's quite a statement). A revamped defense includes Shawne Merriman, Nick Barnett, and first round pick Marcell Dareus. Hopefully, this defense can make the sting of utter disappointments (namely Aaron Maybin) disappear from memory. Of course, as with all mediocre teams, the Bills' greatest strength is still special teams, with kicker Rian Lindell and punter Brian Moorman.
AFC EAST TITLE: New York Jets
- The Jets have a fairly straight-forward schedule, and many pieces from last year's team are back in place. Perhaps this will be the year that Rex Ryan's team truly lives up to his bold predictions.
WILD CARD TEAMS: Miami Dolphins
- I believe that the Dolphins can finally make it over the hump this year. This may be the year that the Bills or the Dolphins can finally be included in the division race. The Bills, however, may not have as many pieces in place just yet. And New England? Well, it may be a shock that they completely miss the playoffs, but I think the Patriots will lack consistency this season. If teams can figure them out early, they may be on the verge of missing the playoffs for the first time since Cassel led them to an 11-5 record in 2008.
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