bleu wrote:Yeah, I think the Madden curse has somewhat become a thing of the past. I've never been very superstitious, but it hasn't hit for a few years.
As far as early favorites for SB52...I have a very hard time not picking the Patriots to return. I see no reason why they shouldn't be as good or even better than they were last year, and I don't think the AFC will be any tougher than last year. NFC is a much more mixed bag. I could see 4 or 5 teams making it there.
I see the AFC as a two, possibly three horse race. Pittsburgh has the talent to play with New England, except the Patriots are so much better coached. If Pittsburgh's young defensive talent gels into something formidable, they are a threat.
Houston is also a threat if they find some QB play this year while maintaining high level of play at defense. Otherwise, I don't see any team that was decent last year adding any pieces that show them taking a next step. Does anyone else? KC drafted a QB for 2019 instead of someone who can have an impact this year. The Raiders added an old RB and a huge distraction with the move. Baltimore doesn't look ready for prime time. Neither do any of the other improving teams in the South. Miami will be worse. Denver is slipping and lost a truly great DC. The Bengals aren't bouncing back and who cares if they do?