The NFC Playoff Picture
The driver’s seat belongs to the Giants. Thus far this season among many pretenders, the defending Super Bowl Champions have separated themselves from the rest of the NFC. After the Giants, the NFC can all be clumped together. They’re up one week and fall back the next.
While the NFC East has beaten up on each other, this year's darling has been the NFC South. The resurgent defense with a spark of offense has pushed the Bucs back into the playoff picture. The Panthers have their quarterback back and so is their defense but it's the running game that's helping both sides of the ball. On the other hand a poised Matt Ryan and tough running Turner have vaulted the Falcons into thinking playoffs too. It’s the Falcons that seem like the most fun team to watch. There’s too much hype regarding the Saints and their offense. When they don’t make a big play and score, it’s somewhat disappointing and the choppy play is a reflection of why the South is up for grabs.
Due to four teams fighting for the playoffs in the South, the East may only receive two playoff teams. This year may be the year a team may need ten wins as a wild card team. Tomorrow night's game between the Skins and Cowboys could bring some clarity to the playoff picture. It's a must win for a Cowboys team returning several players for the game from injuries, but a Skins win could make the playoffs something to talk about for next year for Cowboy fans.
The NFC North has been overshadowed by an intriguing South division and a tough East Division. In the West the real question is about the Cardinals. Are they for real? Can Warner stay healthy? This division has no impact in the wild card race. The answer to who will trail the Giants in the East for a wild card spot will be determined over the next few weeks with several division games being played on the schedule. The South Division could hold the key as to who gets in and who gets ready for golf. Gear up for some fun football over the next few weeks!
