SportsFullCircle

Sorry this didn’t go up yesterday readers, it was ready to go but it went unposted accidently, and by the time we realized it was almost midnight, so we just saved it for today.

The AFC South is one of the two toughest divisions in the NFL, along with the NFC East. This division produced 3 playoff teams last year, the Colts, the Jaguars, and the Titans. The Texans were strong as well, and went 8-8. The division was a combined 42-22. Expect this division to be just as strong this year.

The Jaguars played very well last year, and many speculate that they may be able to overtake the Colts for the AFC South division title. However, Fred Taylor was more healthy last year than he has been in his entire career. I expect this to be an aberration. Even if he does not get injured, I do not see his productivity staying the same at this late a stage in his career. The Jaguars will be a good team next year either way, with Jones-Drew, David Garrard, and a stifling defense. Expect them to contend for a wild card spot.

The Colts should win this division next year. They have one of the top two quarterbacks in the NFL in Peyton Manning, a good wide receiving core, with Reggie Wayne, Marvin Harrison if healthy, and Dallas Clark out of the slot, and a defense anchored by safety Bob Sanders, reigning defensive player of the year. The Colts should be as strong as ever, especially with Dwight Freeney returning to their lineup.

The Titans and Texans are both interesting teams to watch next season. The Titans failed to bolster their weak receiving core, and were unable to help Vince Young. They instead took a running back in the first round, giving them 4 good running backs. This pick made no sense, so expect the team to be around .500, but they will probably not make the playoffs. The Texans are coming off of their best year ever as well. Mario Williams made his first overall selection in the 2007 Draft look warranted. Matt Schaub looked good. This team is a few pieces away, and expect them to hover near .500 as well.

The Colts should win this division, based on their talent and pedigree. The Jaguars should contend for the division title, but look for them in the wild card race.