Opening Week in the National Football week went by with no problems. We saw teams run smoothly and then we had a few bumps in the road. After the first round of games, this is what I can see taking place in the NFC East.
New York Giants
On The Plus Side: The Giant's defensive line seemed to be the only one playing throughout the game. With consistent pressure, they managed to layout Grossman 4 times, but forced no turnovers. That's the only positive I saw.
What Needs To Improve: Everything else suffered. Their offensive line couldn't protect Manning giving up a ton of pressure leading to 4 sacks and 1 interception that was returned for a touchdown. Their injuries really showed face.
Placing: I don't see them finished in the top 2. I see the New York Giants maybe going 7-9. They are just too hurt on defensive to contend with anyone at this point and their schedule doesn't get any easier. They have the Rams coming up and with a suspect secondary, I think Bradford with do some real damage this upcoming Monday Night.
Washington Redskins
On The Plus Side: Rex Grossman actually looked good. Despite being pressured by the Giant's D-line, he threw for 305 yards and 2 touchdowns. He found WRs open amongst the downsized pass defense of the New York Giants.
On The Plus Side: The Redskins defensive is much improved. With much stronger D-line, they caused the Giants trouble all day long. They got to Manning 4 times, forced a fumble and had a pick 6.
What Needs To Improve: Their is always room for improvement. First thing that comes to mind would be the run. They weren't able to break a hundred yards this time, but came up with 76 yards. A good running game keeps the defense honest thus opening up play action pass.
Placing: If they are this good, I can see they stealing 9 to 10 wins. The defense needs to keep the pressure going. Lets see how they do against the Cardinals and Dallas the following week. If they come out 3 and 0, look for them to be a playoff contender.
Dallas Cowboys:
On The Plus Side: These aren't the same Cowboys from last year. Rob Ryan has made men out of their defense from a year ago. Pressure doesn't even began to explain how they play. They go hard! On the flip side, the offense seemed to have their way with Rex Ryan and the New York Jets Sunday night.
What Needs To Improve: They gave up 17 points in the 4th quarter to the Jets. They have to finish games. If they gain that killer instinct, look for them to win the NFC East and may be win a playoff game in which they haven't done in almost 14 years.
Placing: They can be good. They can be really good, but they need to finish strong. They put up a quick 10 points on the Jets defense. Romo threw for 342 yards with 2 touchdowns, but 1 costly inception. If they learn how to finish, they can be a force in the NFC. I think they will finish 10-6, but they need to finish games.
Philadelphia Eagles
On The Plus Side: Their offense seems to have got off to a great start. Even though it was against St. Louis, they were productive and that is all that really matters. With Vick at QB, I don't see them giving up a lot of games.
What Needs To Improve: I still think that their offensive and defensive lines are weak. Yes, they were able to score and score often, but I just don't think they can be considered an elite team without a stand out O and D-line.
Placing: If they get their respective lines in order, I can see them taking the NFC east. I don't see them winning every game, but 11 games or so. I believe they will get home field advantage in the 1st round, but they won't get a bye week in the playoffs.
Those are my views after week 1. I think have the most work to do out of the NFC east, but only time will tell. It's a long season and I'm looking forward to every game.
Til Next Time,
Alex Viruet
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