2008 NFL Playoffs
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sports
2008 NFL Playoffs
NFC Contenders
Dallas Cowboys – Despite the retirement of coach Bill Parcells at the beginning of 2007, the Cowboys responded by posting the best record in the NFC. If Terrell Owens can return to full strength, the Cowboys will be the favorite to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl. For Tony Romo’s sake, let’s hope that Jessica Simpson cheers from a distance.
Green Bay Packers – At the end of 2006, Brett Favre was contemplating retirement. However, the 38-year-old veteran returned in 2007 to throw 28 touchdowns and surprise the league by leading the Packers to 13 victories. Many NFL fans will love to see old Favre in another Super Bowl.
NFC Noisemakers
New York Giants – The Giants have a vicious defensive line that is known for bringing terror to opposing quarterbacks. If Eli Manning can remain consistent, the Giants could be this year’s upset special in the NFC.
Seattle Seahawks – The Seahawks are often jived for playing in the weakest division in the NFL. But if quarterback Matt Hasslebeck continues to play at All-Pro level, the Seahawks will be a few good games away from reaching the NFC Championship game.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers – The Bucs will look to use their potent defense to create mismatches against their opposition. However, their anemic offense won’t take them far.
NFC Pretenders
Washington Redskins – Along with the Atlanta Falcons, the Redskins had the toughest year for an NFL franchise in 2007. They remained motivated after the death of Sean Taylor, and that’s a victory in and of itself.
AFC Contenders
New England Patriots – The Patriots were the bullies of the NFL in 2007. By going 16-0 in the regular season, they made sports history. They are the odds-on favorite to carry the Lombardi Trophy in Super Bowl XLII.
Indianapolis Colts – While the Patriots received all of the media attention, Tony Dungy and the Colts quietly remained consistent throughout the year. It won’t be a surprise if they beat the Patriots in the AFC Championship.
AFC Noisemakers
Pittsburgh Steelers – First-year head coach Mike Tomlin has the Steelers playing at the same level that allowed them to win the Super Bowl in 2004. If they can string together three great games, they will return to the largest stage in football.
Jacksonville Jaguars -The Jaguars have a tough-minded system that will cause havoc in the playoffs. Every AFC playoff team, including the Patriots, will want to dodge the Jaguars in the post season.
San Diego Chargers -The Chargers found ways to battle through adversity the entire season. If the offense plays smart by giving LaDainian Tomlison the ball more, they could have a few upsets up their sleeves.
AFC Pretenders
Tennessee Titans – The Titans backed into the playoffs by beating an Indianapolis Colts team that pulled all of its starters in the last game. With that being said, look for the Titans to make a quick exit in this year’s AFC playoffs. –amir shaw
