NFL predictions: Which teams will top NFC and AFC?
By Brad Miller
A look at the NFC West
NFC West
1. Arizona 12-4
2. Seattle 12-4
3. Los Angeles 5-11
4. San Francisco 4-12
The Cardinals had a tremendous year in 2015, falling just short of the Super Bowl. Most of their weapons are back, including surprise player of the year RB David Johnson from the University of Northern Iowa. Look for more of the same going into this season.
Seattle arguably has one of the best defenses in the game and last year was no exception. Yeah, they were made to look pedestrian by the Broncos in the Super Bowl but that should add to their fire heading into this season. QB Russell Wilson makes plays when he needs to. Will WR Doug Baldwin’s coming out party carry over into this year? We shall see.
The St. Louis … oh wait… Los Angeles Rams have a new/old location this year. Will that change how they finish? Probably not. The Rams will have a defense that shows up every week but their offensive power will hinge on their QB play. Rookie Jared Goff has been told he will not begin the season as a starter. Is Case Keenum or Sean Mannion the answer at QB? Time will tell.
The 49ers have a new coaching staff and numerous new faces in their lineup this year. The new staff are putting their faith in QB Blaine Gabbert over one time fan favorite Colin Kaepernick. Wait, I might need to sit down for this one. Look for RB Carlos Hyde to have a good year and the LB tandem of Ahmad Brooks and NaVorro Bowman will keep the 49ers in most of the games.
Next: Who is tops in the NFC North?