NFC South Preview


 We're quickly approaching the 2025 NFL Season. As such, I'll be previewing each of the divisions over the next few weeks. We'll look at teams in order of finish, then I'll make a prediction for the new season.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
2024 Record: 10-7
About: The Buccaneers came through with a win again in the NFC South. They ran into a buzz saw in the Wild Card round against the Commanders, who made it to the NFC Championship Game. This off-season they changed offensive coordinators, again, but still have plenty of weapons. With Baker Mayfield at quarterback and a skill group that includes Mike Evans, Chris Godwin, Emeka Egbuka, Jalen McMillan, Cade Otton, Bucky Irving, and Rachaad White, they Buccaneers will be a tough team to stop.

Atlanta Falcons
2024 Record: 8-9
About: The Falcons entered last season with promise. But the experiment with Kirk Cousins didn't pan out, and that left the team on the outside looking in when it came to the playoffs. Michael Penix, Jr., is the starter now, and expectations remain high. But the Falcons need better effort from the defense, where they invested their top draft picks. In addition, the team needs Penix to make the most of a talented offensive cast if they want to get to the playoffs.

Carolina Panthers
2024 Record: 5-12
About: The Panthers' record wasn't great, but the team improved in 2024. Bryce Young got off to a rough start but closed looking better. Can he take another leap in 2025? They've gotten him a new receiver in Tet McMillan, which should help things. I don't know that the Panthers are a playoff team but I think they are trending in the right direction.

New Orleans Saints
2024 Record: 5-12
About: The Saints' 2024 season imploded due to injuries. After a hot start, losing Chris Olave, Rasheed Shahid, and Derek Carr proved too much. Now, with Carr retired, the team is still something of a mess, now under the direction of Kellen Moore. Can Spencer Rattler improve in his second year. Is Second Round pick Tyler Shough the answer? We'll know soon enough.

Final Thoughts: I still like the Buccaneers in the South in 2025. And I think they're the only playoff team. I think the Panthers will win more games, and the Falcons will be about the same. The Saints are cruising toward a rebuild. I think it's possible they'll be the worst team in the league.

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