After a frustrating lockout and a historically hectic August, the 2011 season is nearly here. With the Saints-Packers opening game kickoff less than 24 hours away, it's time for some predictions for the 2011 season. I'll go division-by-division, continuing with the AFC South .
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| With Peyton finally sidelined, not even the Texans can miss this opportunity. |
1. Houston Texans
Why They'll Be Better - No single unit killed its team more in 2010 than the Texans secondary. After signing free agents Johnathan Joseph and Danieal Manning, the Houston passing defense may finally be able to give the offense some breathing room.
Why They'll Be Worse - These days, the Texans never lack talent but are always sitting at home come January. If there's one coach who can miss the window of opportunity that Peyton Manning's absence has left, it's Gary Kubiak.
My Prediction - The new defensive system will not be as big of a challenge as many are making it to be. Wade Philips' 3-4 defense has a lot of 4-3 principles that will ease the transition. By the end of the season, Mario Williams will look like a DeMarcus Ware clone, and the city of Houston will host its first playoff game in 18 years.
2. Indianapolis Colts
Why They'll Be Better - After being gashed by injuries last year, the Colts receiving corps returns with a healthy Dallas Clark, Austin Collie, and Anthony Gonzalez.
Why They'll Be Worse - Right now, Colts fans only care about the health of one player: Manning. The last time Peyton didn't start a game for his football team, he was at the University of Tennessee and backed up Todd Helton. Yes, that Todd Helton.
My Prediction - If Peyton isn't practicing this week, then expect him to miss at least a couple of games before returning at less-than full health. While he's out, the Colts' inexcusable lack of a Plan B will doom their season. We'll finally get an answer to the question: "How good would the Colts be without Peyton Manning?" Much to the chagrin of fans in Indy.
3. Tennessee Titans
Why They'll Be Better - Uber-talented receiver Kenny Britt, after narrowly dodging a disciplinary suspension, seems prime for a breakout in his third season. In a league that rewards consistency, 10 of the 11 offensive starter for the Titans are roster incumbents.
Why They'll Be Worse - Unfortunately, the one new starter is the quarterback, Matt Hasselbeck. The Boston College product has been injury-plagued for years and is now learning a new system after spending his whole career in the West Coast offense. I don't like his chances.
My Prediction - The Titans also field a strong team, yet something inevitably derails them. This year, it will be instability at the team's most important position, as rookie coach Mike Munchak will turn the reigns over to rookie QB Jake Locker as soon as Tennessee falters.
4. Jacksonville Jaguars
Why They'll Be Better - Maurice Jones-Drew entered 2010 with a torn meniscus, so having him healthy this season is a huge boost for the Jaguars offense. Additionally, the Jaguars were one of the few teams to return with the same head coach and coordinators.
Why They'll Be Worse - In a surprising move earlier this week, Jacksonville released David Garrard, their starting quarterback of the past four seasons. Luke McCown may provide a smoother transition to rookie Blaine Gabbert, but I don't see him winning many games.
My Prediction - With Garrard, I thought that the Jaguars could take advantage of the Manning-less Colts to challenge for the division title. With McCown, I expect them to finish last as they hit rebuilding mode by November.
Up next, the AFC West.
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