NFC South Division Analysed: Part II
The Saints look mighty strong even with all the pressure but they will be pushed to the edge by the rest of the teams that make up the NFC South.
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers are one team being touted by most analysts as the favourite to dislodge the Saints off their high perch this year.
Last season saw the Panthers really come to life and challenge the big teams in the league. The arrival of quarterback Cam Newton completely turned around the franchise’s fortunes as it improved from a 2-14 record in 2010 to a 6-10 record.
Newton’s surge in the final half of the season saw the Panthers win four out of their last six games and even though they did not qualify for the postseason, the team showed glimpses of a bright future ahead.
The quarterback broke major NFL records in his first season while showing an eye for the pass and the athletic ability to rush when needed.
If Newton delivered such big rewards in his first season for the Panthers without a complete preseason it is scary to think what he can do in his second year in the league when he has settled into the team.
In addition to Newton the Panthers possess a talented offensive roster and wide receiver Steve Smith can be expected to pick up his brilliant synergy with Newton.
The defence has improved this offseason too with the team inducting first round draft pick and linebacker Luke Kuechly into the roster.
All things point to a big season ahead for the Panthers and fan expectations will be high from the team this year as they make a push for the NFC South division title and the playoffs.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
One of the worst teams from last season the Buccaneers seem to have improved the most in the current offseason.
Ending their 2011/12 campaign on a 10-game losing streak saw head coach Raheem Morris being sacked by the owners and replaced by rookie head coach Greg Schiano.
Schiano arrived from Rutgers University and immediately set out to improve the roster.
The Buccaneers added three big names to the roster in the offseason with wide receiver Vincent Jackson, Cornerback Eric Wright and Guard Carl Nicks joining the roster in big money moves.
In addition Schiano added talented rookies in safety Mark Barron and running back Doug Martin to the roster while signing up many former Rutgers players.
On paper the Bucs roster has the potential to challenge for the playoffs and the NFC South division title with many analysts touting the team to go from last to first in the division this year.
For Schiano this is the time to prove that he can coach in the NFL and he will no doubt pump up his players to give their best each week when the season starts.
(The views expressed in this article do not reflect the editorial policy of Bettor.com)
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