NFC East prediction 2012

NFC East

None of the four teams in the East strike me as flawless, but the top three are as tight as any division grouping. The division games are always tricky to pick, but they’ll be key in deciding a championship that likely will come down to the wire again.

New York Giants: It seems like Eli Manning has taken his game to the next level. The offensive skill talent is top notch with Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz and I’m hugely curious to see what David Wilson can add to the run game. I don’t love this pick, but coming off the huge Super Bowl run I say stick with them until they give you a reason not to.

Philadelphia Eagles: Last year was a disappointment but I tend to think the talent will come together this year. If Philly can keep Michael Vick healthy they’ll stick right with the Giants if not overtake them. The defense has to improve. This is one of the harder teams in the NFC to read. I could see them being as good as anyone in the conference or completely imploding again. I’ll start with them here for now.

Dallas Cowboys: In a division as tight as the East, it’s unfortunate that Dallas isn’t going into the season at full strength. Jason Witten likely won’t play in what could be a key game in the opener Wednesday against New York. The wideouts have been hurt. The offensive line is a mess. I think Dallas will get better as the season goes along, but if they start with a couple losses it could be hard to make that up.

Washington Redskins: I am a fan of Robert Griffin and of the team’s move to trade up and get him. Everything I’ve read indicates this team is set at quarterback for a decade. That said, there’s still a talent shortage at other positions. They’re now heading in the right direction but it’ll be another year or two before they are ready to compete for the division.