A Midseason NFL Assessment


The NFL finishes week eight tonight, so it's time to revisit the standings and make the mid-season playoff picks.

Who would have thought the Cowboys would be favorites in the NFC, or that the Arizona Cardinals would be in the catbird seat in the NFC West. That's what our 2014 NFL season has been like.

NFC:
West — The Seattle Seahawks aren't the team they were last year, and the San Francisco 49ers have been ravaged by injuries. Quietly, the Cardinals have accumulated a 6-1 record and lead the division. But the Cardinals still have to play three games with the 49ers and Seahawks.

North — The Detroit Lions have been good in close games, and lead the division at 6-2 despite some big injuries. They'll be healthier following a bye, but the Green Bay Packers are lurking. The Chicago Bears, however, have been the season's biggest disappointment.

South — Four teams under .500. This is the worst division. It seems like it's down to the Saints, a frisky 3-4, and the Carolina Panthers, 3-4-1, for the division win and a playoff spot.

East — The Cowboys look like legitimate playoff threats. The Eagles have a good record, but they have been a marginal team.

Playoff Predictions:
West: Cardinals
North: Packers
South: Saints
East: Cowboys
Wild Card: Lions
Wild Card: 49ers

AFC:
West — The Broncos look like a dominant team on both sides of the ball, but the San Diego Chargers and Kansas City Chiefs look like playoff contenders.

North — All four teams are over .500, but it's anyone's guess who can hang tough to make the playoffs.

South — The Colts look like a lock to win the division, but the question is whether the Houston Texans can be in the playoff hunt a month from now.

East — This is the Patriots' division. The Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins will be in the playoff hunt, but the Patriots are rounding into form nicely.

Playoff Predictions:
West: Broncos
North: Ravens
South: Colts
East: Patriots
Wild Card: Chargers
Wild Card: Bengals

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