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The only 2-time league champion is in this division, and it would certainly be in the realm of possibility to see 3 of the 4 teams in the playoffs. With that said, lets get started...
1) Los Angeles Rams
While will they repeat again as division champs?
For one thing, they've done it so many times, betting against them just doesn't make sense to bet against them. They have the GOAT at QB, Kamara and A.J. Dillon at RB, and the top WR in Devante Adams along with the top TE in Travis Kelce, along with a couple more TE's to play a very bruising, scoring offense. That with an above average front 7 means that it's going to be a haul to outscore this team. Plus, there is over a month until the season starts, and Kenny will probably not stand pat until then.
Why they might fall short this season?
There are two other teams in their division just might have more talent on paper, and might be able to match them point for point. The secondary for the Rams has two blue-chippers, but the rest is somewhat suspect; scoring probably won't be an issue for the Rams this season, but shutting down other teams might be.
Verdict
I highly doubt this is the final roster for the Rams going into the season, and even if it is...Kenny has the skill and reputation as a coach to carry this team far. To be the champ, you have to beat the champ, and as of right now, Kenny and the Rams are the champs.
2) Arizona Cardinals
Why can the Cardinals win the division and even more?
The Cardinals have 4 legitimate weapons to throw to, led by WR Justin Jefferson and new acquired TE Zack Ertz, along with a solid running attack, a strengthened D-Line and secondary. Arizona can score points, and have enough defense to stop teams as needed.
Why could the Cardinals finish 3rd in the division?
QB Ryan Tannehill is simply not as good as his divisional counterparts in Brady and Burrow, and the O-line is only average at 4 of the 5 positions and is mediocre at LB. A team with a good running attack behind a good O-line could stymie the Cards, and probably will in at least a game or two this season.
Verdict
Do I have a shot at winning the division...of course. But can I confidently predict it...no. Like last year, Arizona will score tons of points, but even if they win the division, they will be vulnerable to certain teams. This will probably go down to the last few weeks of the season.
3) Los Angeles Chargers
Why can the Chargers win the division this season?
Start first with Joe Burrow, who may be the best QB in the division, along with what is maybe the best rushing attack and solid WR's, who should do fine depending on when the injury gods strike. They are also blessed with a decent O-line, an above average back 7, and will be able to win alot of high-scoring games.
Why they can finish 3rd and miss the playoffs?
This is Daniel's first team in the PAFL that is a legit playoff contender, and now he will have to play the games and do it. The Chargers have a favorable schedule, and will probably be favored in their last 4 games of the year, but that doesn't mean they will necessarily win them; maximizing their roster and eliminating usage issues will be challenges as well. On any given Sunday, this team will be in it though.
Verdict
There is no doubt that the division is a 3 headed monster, with any and all teams able to get into the playoffs. The Cards and the Rams have been here before, so making the leap is easier said than done. I played Daniel last year and he is a good coach, but he will have to make that move forward.
4) Atlanta Falcons
Why will the Falcons win more games than most suspect?
WR's Zay Jones and Elijah Moore lead the offense, and the back 7 of the defense has the ability to stop drives and keep scores in the ballpark; CB AJ Terrell ranks as one of the better shutdown corners and should be able to contain some of the big boys.
Why Atlanta is in the running for the #1 overall pick next year?
First off, the schedule gods have not done them a ton of favors, and the other 3 teams in the division are 6 games where they will go in as underdogs. The Falcons have the weakest QB of the 4 teams, and outside of LT, they will be not be able to protect Zack Wilson enough to get his best. Scoring points will be a challenge this season, but once their draft pieces start to mingle in with their younger talent, the gap will hopefully close starting next season.
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