Back in 2014, I had said that the NFC winner would win the Super Bowl, most likely out of the NFC West. I was predicting a bloodbath between the Seahawks and the 49ers, the top rivalry that was brewing in the NFL. They dislike each other almost as badly as the Ravens/Patriots grudge match, and thought that whomever survived would win it all. The Seahawks were a bonehead decision away from becoming back-to-back champs. I am positive that they are just itching to return to finish the job, getting that second Super Bowl ring.
But this will not be their year. Not this time.
We have two major storylines developing this season that creates the two teams we will see in the 2016 Super Bowl. Both tales are boldly different, arguably opposite. On the NFC side, we will see the Seahawks handedly take over the NFC West as the Cardinals will struggle matching last season’s magic, the 49ers will fall in flames, and the Rams will…well, not really contribute. The Panthers will repeat as champs, continuing the momentum from last year’s surprisingly lengthy run. The Packers will also repeat, as a furious Aaron Rodgers (who should have been in the Super Bowl last season) shall be seen hurling bombs all year long to get back to the same spot.
In case you haven’t noticed, a lot of revenge storylines are developing in the NFC: the Cowboys, Lions, Packers, and especially the Seahawks all feel hosed and feel like they should have gone further. The SpyGate controversy engulfs the fact that the Lions got horrifically screwed in their playoff game, the Cowboys got wrecked because of a stupid rule (it WAS the right call, contrary to what you are led to believe), the Packers caused the biggest collapse in recent NFL history, and the Seahawks…we all know what occurred on that fateful night. P.S. It was a terrible call mixed with a ballsy move by Belichick for not calling the timeout we were all expecting. Back to topic. The NFC will not be won by any of these teams though.
The true revenge story belongs to Tom Brady and the New England Patriots in the AFC. They are pissed, even if they won it all. DeflateGate has ruined all happy feelings experienced in the Northeast as they watch their legendary quarterback have to go to court to defend his reputation and prevent a suspension. We are seeing a furious head coach, constantly accused of cheating, suddenly having his legacy questioned yet again by the NFL, by the fans, and of course by the rival teams. Ravens are still salty at that trick play…
Expect the Patriots to scream through the AFC, taking down everything in its path. The Colts (which will win their division), Ravens (winning in a tight division), Steelers, and Chargers (whom I predict will be neck-in-neck with the reeling Broncos) will fall very quickly and swiftly to the Belichick Machine. It won’t be pretty in the least bit. Reggie Wayne joining the Patriots alongside a mostly-intact staff and a bloodthirsty Brady? I am Dolphins nation all the way, and I think we might even hit 10 wins (despite the nasty scheduling ending of Chargers/Colts/Patriots). But the Patriots will win at LEAST 12 to stick it to Roger, stick it to the NFL, and stick it to the haters. The last thing you need is to give them motivation.
Patriots will march to the Bowl. Want to know who is joining them?
Philadelphia Eagles.
Yes, the Eagles. I am not kidding. Chip Kelly and its sneaky-deep lineup of offensive weapons is going to march in an inconsistent division. Bradford will be healthy, will be well-protected, and is going to run a devastating offense that is going to wear you out. And then there’s the sheer potential of tricks up their sleeve. And of course, we can’t forget the main factor in all this:
TEBOW!
The Eagles will run circles around everyone using the innovative and fast-paced Kelly offense, and Tebow has FINALLY found a team that will adjust well to his style of play. Even if Tebow won’t be front and center, he will remain a vital part with leadership, optimism, and a great aura that will resonate throughout the staff and the season. Similar to the Alex Smith/Colin Kaepernick situation, Sam Bradford is an improved version of Nick Foles and could propel them to go quite far.
Yes, the Eagles is most definitely not the popular choice. But their quarterback staff is actually quite deep, and add all the offensive options and Chip Kelly’s innovative style of play, and this could spell greatness for Philly, and bad news for everyone else. Kelly is 46-7 in college, 20-12 in his first two pro seasons with a lesser lineup in a tough division----without much of a defense too. He is due for a special NFL season, and I predict that this will be it. I am standing by my Eagles/Patriots Super Bowl matchup.
God is now an Eagles fan. Never bet against God.
But that is my pick, posted here for all to see and criticize, especially if I am way off.
Go Dolphins!!!
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