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NFC West Predictions for 2022

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NFC West Predictions for 2022

By Tim Lazenby

The NFC West has been pretty dominant for quite some time now.  The division winner isn’t always the same team, but if you win this division, you go far in the playoffs.  Not since 1991 has a team from the NFC West not been in the playoffs past the wild card round.  As we look ahead, will we still have a dominant team?  Let’s find out.

Arizona Cardinals

Record in 2021: 11-6-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 11-6-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

Though the defense is pretty good in Arizona, the high flying offense is what gets it done.  Whether it be superstar Kyler Murray, the receiving game led by DeAndre Hopkins or the ground game, which runs through James Conner, the Cardinals are stacked.  That being said, management woes are rearing their ugly heads in Arizona.  If it was quiet before, it has been brought to the forefront with Kyler Murray.  Past Cardinals have sided with Murray, stating this has been a problem for quite some time.

Situation to Watch

There are many intriguing things happening in Arizona, but a lower key one takes my attention.  Trey McBride out of Colorado State has had a much quieter entry into the league than last year’s top option in Kyle Pitts.  Particularly with dynasty fantasy implications, I wonder how they’ll use him as a rookie alongside Zach Ertz.  He’s got much to learn, especially without the ball in his hands, but I’m excited to see it unfold.

Conclusion

Not many casual fans know this, but the Cardinals are actually the NFL’s oldest franchise.  While we’ve seen this team in the depths of the valley and on the top of a mountain, I feel like it’s looking up for the Cardinals in 2022.  Losing DeAndre Hopkins for 6 games hurts, but it’s a hurdle they’ll overcome.  A couple early losses with D-Hops out won’t matter once he’s back.

Seattle Seahawks

Record in 2021: 7-10-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 3-14-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

It is true that the Seattle Roster is quite barren compared to its glory days not so long ago, but there are still gems.  DK Metcalf had a much better season last year than he gets credit for and the rest of the offense isn’t the worst in the league.  It’s hard to list a greater weakness than the quarterback room.  The current guys aren’t great, but it’s so much worse knowing what you had versus what you have now.

Situation to Watch

While I still love him as a guy, I’m very curious as to how Pete Carroll will do this season.  While the Seahawks haven’t been dominant in quite some time, with Russell Wilson you always had a chance.  A new day is dawning in Seattle and you have to question whether the sun has all but set for Carroll.  If he doesn’t make noise in this division in 2022, I fear he’ll be out the door by the end of the season next year.

Conclusion

The Legion of Boom is officially dead as no one remains from that dominant defense with Bobby Wagner now gone.  And the worst blow is knowing you are going from Russell Wilson to Drew Lock or even Geno Smith.  The offseason moves were ok and the draft brings potential, the lack of star power, save Metcalf, is very concerning moving forward.  This team has its work cut out for it, and it’s going to cut deep.

San Francisco 49ers

Record in 2021: 10-7-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 7-10-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

The biggest strength of this team is one that doesn’t get near enough credit.  While Deebo got a ton of praise last season and everyone drools over Trey Lance, let’s not forget about one of the most punishing defenses in the entire league.  Last season both Dallas and Green Bay were rudely awoken by Fred Warner, Nick Bosa and crew.  This defense should continue to dominate for years to come.

Situation to Watch

I am waiting to see what Kyle Shanahan does this season.  Among fantasy pundits, we are maddened by his choices with his running game every season.  I know it’s obviously more important to win real life games; but if we’re being honest as fantasy football people, is it?  I also wonder what he’ll finally do with Trey Lance, like so many others.  I worry that Jimmy G just won’t go away, breaking the hearts of Lance fanboys all over fantasy leagues.

Conclusion

My assessment of this team’s record can be quite deceiving.  A 7-10-0 prediction makes it seem as though I think the team is terrible, but that’s just not true.  I honestly think it’s going to take a while for this team to get up to speed under Trey Lance.  Once this team gets solidified, however, it’s gonna be scary for the other 31 teams.  But, I don’t think the other teams will have to worry just yet.

Los Angeles Rams

Record in 2021: 12-5-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 12-5-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

What a difference a quarterback makes.  Although there were other moving pieces, the biggest solution for the Rams’ Super Bowl puzzle was Matthew Stafford.  And if you don’t agree, just ask Cooper Kupp.  The biggest weakness is actually a result of having such a great team.  In a salary cap world, you can only afford so much.  It makes you question how much longer they can keep this elite core together.

Situation to Watch

In 2022, I want to see Allen Robinson succeed.  Largely based on my world as a fantasy manager, Allen Robinson has never had the good fortune of a great quarterback.  Truly no disrespect intended, but Blake Bortles, Nick Foles, Mitchell Trubisky and a rookie Justin Fields isn’t fair for a man with the talent of Robinson.  He now goes to Matthew Stafford and I can’t wait to see Robinson light the football world on fire.

Conclusion

I’m pretty positive, like so many others, that the Rams will win the division again this season.  And like so many others, I think they have a shot to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl again in 2022.  That being said, as I mentioned earlier, time is running out on future runs.  And it’s not age that will stop them: it’s the salary cap crunch.  All I can say is that they’ll have to make some tough choices moving forward.  It’s been an honor and a privilege to watch football magic in action, but it’s gotta end sometime.

 

Follow me on Twitter @NFLazenby

NFC North Predictions for 2022

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NFC North Predictions for 2022

By Tim Lazenby

When it comes to the one division in the NFL with the most history, we look no further than the NFC North.  Featuring three of the oldest five franchises in the entire league, there’s always a story unfolding and a legend continuing.  Let’s take a look at the most storied franchise in the NFL and try to predict how they’ll do in 2022.

Chicago Bears

Record in 2021: 6-11-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 7-10-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

It’s hard to look at the Chicago Bears and not feel some sort of optimism.  Brimming with youth, players like Justin Fields, Darnell Mooney and Cole Kmet are ready to take that next step.  I do worry about that defense, who was already near the bottom last season even before the departures of key cogs Eddie Goldman, Danny Trevathan and Khalil Mack.

Situation to Watch

Ryan Poles and Matt Eberflus arrive in Chicago this off season with a big task ahead of them.  For way too long now, the Bears haven’t lived up to the name of “Da Bears” that fans know and love.  It will be curious to see how the wrongs will be righted by this duo moving forward with this squad.  One thing is for sure, the McCaskey’s have done what they can to ensure the success of the franchise moving forward.

Conclusion

While I see the light at the end of the tunnel, we’re certainly not there yet.  David Montgomery has been a largely unregarded hero of this squad but he needs help.  For the team to succeed, Justin Fields simply has to take charge.  With no first round pick this off season, we may just have to wait until next year for this team to bear fruit come playoff time.

Detroit Lions

Record in 2021: 3-13-1  

Predicted Record in 2022: 7-10-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

The Detroit Lions offense runs through the air.  D’Andre Swift is one of the best pass catching backs in the game today and TJ Hockenson is thrilling at tight end.  Adding DJ Chark and rookie Jameson Williams should make this team even better.  But with all these players struggling to stay on the field, the risk of injury is rampant.

There’s no chance of winning if your best players are in suits and ties.

Situation to Watch

Taylor Decker, Frank Ragnow, Jonah Jackson and Penei Sewell make up one of the best quartets in the league among offensive lines.  We, however, can’t overlook the season Halapoulivaati Vaitai had last year.  Switching from tackle to guard and struggling with injuries last year, he is the last piece of the puzzle on this offensive line that could be near the top of the league.  Goff’s success depends on it.

Conclusion

With only two double digit win seasons since 1995, the Lions haven't given their fans what they deserved.  GM Brad Holmes has wasted no time putting his stamp on this team.  Trading away franchise face Matthew Stafford was a necessary evil, but it stings nonetheless.  I see a big improvement from the Lions this year provided we see more of 2017/2018 Goff rather than 2021 Goff.

Green Bay Packers

Record in 2021: 13-4-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 10-7-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

Although I disagree, some consider Aaron Rodgers the best to play the game.  You have to wonder though if he’ll remain just as magical without Devante Adams in the fold.  I know he’s played without him before, but going from Devante Adams to Allen Lazard is quite a steep dropoff.  We all have to hope that Christian Watson can replicate even a portion of the production lost from Adams in his reuniting with Derek Carr.

Situation to Watch

I am looking forward to watching Aaron Rodgers play football: plain and simple.  Whether it be his feud with general manager Brian Gutekunst that took headlines in 2020 or his retirement drama that overtook this entire offseason, I’ve had enough.  No more drama, no more storylines, just show us the magic on the field; however that may unfold.

Conclusion

Like I said before, the loss of Devante Adams can’t be understated.  Although the Packers should still win the division next season, it won’t be in the usual juggernaut style that they’ve become accustomed to.  Matt Lafleur will fall well short of his routine 13 win mark and questions will need to be addressed for 2023 and beyond.

Minnesota Vikings

Record in 2021: 8-9-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 8-9-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

Minnesota features one of the best air/ground combo in the entire league.  Dalvin Cook is elite, and while Adam Thielen and KJ Osborne are fantastic, Justin Jefferson is out of this world.  But I can’t help but wonder what has happened to this elite defense last season.  The marque names are still there, but something isn’t gelling anymore.  For any chance in this division, newly anointed defensive coordinator Ed Donatell has his work cut out for him.

Situation to Watch

In a world of incentive based contracts, how was it that Kirk Cousins, of all people, landed a second consecutive fully guaranteed contract?  I’m not saying Cousins is bad, but he’s certainly not on a list of names you’d figure could accomplish the feat.  He has to show more to not be jeered by pundits and fans alike.  This time cannot afford to be a middle of the pack one anymore.

Conclusion

I see yet another 500-ish season for the Vikings.  The talent is there, but the application just isn’t happening.  I also fear that Minnesota just can’t get it done unless they have a different quarterback.  In a world where you have Justin Jefferson, you simply must do whatever you can to utilize his talents to their fullest potential.

 

Follow me on Twitter @NFLazenby

NFC East Predictions for 2022

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NFC East Predictions for 2022

By Tim Lazenby

In 2020, we saw for only the third time in NFL history where a team with a losing record won the division.  The Washington Football Team represented the NFC then, sporting a 7-9 record.  Moving into 2022, spoiler alert, I see the NFC struggling compared to the rest of the league and promoting a losing team to the playoffs.  Without further ado, here we go.

Dallas Cowboys

Record in 2021: 12-5-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 8-9-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

It seems like forever since the Dallas Cowboys haven’t had the best offensive line in football.  Zack Martin and crew give Dak Prescott his best shot each and every game.  The defense is also among the best in the league.  The biggest problem I see is Mike McCarthy’s late gate decision making.  Boasting the best of both worlds, he has to be wiser when the game matters the most.

Situation to Watch

Personally I’m watching to see the continued growth of CeeDee Lamb.  With Amari Cooper now calling Cleveland home, I can only imagine what CeeDee is truly capable of.  There are only seven receivers in the great history of the Cowboys who bested Lamb’s 79 receptions last season.  It’s not out of the question to think he can top the century mark for receptions; which only one Dallas wide receiver has accomplished.

Conclusion

A big part of the Cowboys not doing as well in 2022 as they did last season is the improvement of another team in this division.  I also see the Cowboys losing two key games to bottom feeders will sink their chances at a winning record.  Although they will be under 500, it doesn’t mean they’re done after 17 games though.

New York Giants

Record in 2021: 4-13-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 6-11-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

I’m sure everyone is aware of how well the Giants did in this year’s draft.  It helps, mind you, when you have two picks in the top ten.  And it’s even more helpful when, at one point, both Kayvon Thibodeaux and Evan Neal were in contention to be drafted first overall.  That being said, so many question marks surround the team’s future.  The biggest two are Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley.

Situation to Watch

Daniel Jones and Saquon Barkley may be the two biggest question marks moving forward, but there are many more.  All in all, the Giants had 16 players miss half the games or more last season and many were starters.  It’s hard to evaluate what kind of team you have if so many are missing in action.  If the Giants are to make some noise this season, they’ve got to stay on the field.

Conclusion

I see positive strides coming the way of new coach Brian Daboll as he should instill a work ethic that has been missing for quite some time.  I also think that Daniel Jones proves management right with his play this year.  Though they won’t make the playoffs, it won’t be a laughing stock situation like it has been for so long.

Philadelphia Eagles

Record in 2021: 9-8-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 8-9-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

The Philadelphia Eagles shocked the world during the draft when they traded for superstar wide receiver, AJ Brown.  In Brown the Eagles finally have an alpha, but we can’t forget the makeup of this team.  They roster a quarterback who loves to run and the best ground game in the league.  A new identity has to be coming, but I wonder how long that will take to arrive fully.

Situation to Watch

With the addition of AJ Brown, changes are coming.  I worry for the long term security of Miles Sanders.  Last year he scored zero touchdowns and players like Kenneth Gainwell cannot be held off forever.  I don’t think the Eagles can justify another poor season of play from Miles Sanders now that they’re all in with their receiving game.

Conclusion

It’s easy to get excited about AJ Brown, but AJ Brown will not instantly make this team a contender.  If I were looking at the keys to success, I remember that they drafted living bulldozer Jordan Davis and Nakobe Dean; maybe the best value in the draft.  The defense was good before, but now they can contend with the big boys.  That being said, I can’t see the offense magically changing overnight.  I’m certain it’s a year of growing pains before the Eagles really fly.

Washington Commanders

Record in 2021: 7-10-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 4-12-1

Strengths and Weaknesses

The biggest strength of this team is their schedule.  Ranking at sixth best, the cards are in their favor, but I’ll be real with you when I say that this team worries me.  Since they improbably limped into their division win two years ago, not much has gone right for this team.  A once rock solid defense has become a sieve and Carson Wentz is not the solution at quarterback.

Situation to Watch

For me, I’m watching to see how first round pick Jahan Dotson does out of the gate.  In my humble opinion, there were other areas they should have addressed in the draft instead of taking a receiver.  In fact, from my estimations, there was a better option even at the position available.  I’m hoping Jahan Dotson proves me wrong though.

Conclusion

There aren’t many teams that I think will finish lower than the Commanders in 2022.  While on paper, the defense should be way better and they are more improved than last year, it won’t be enough.  I predict a six game losing streak out of the gate and it’s a hurdle that wouldn’t likely be overcome by a favorite, let alone the lowly Commanders.

 

Follow me on Twitter @NFLazenby

NFC South Predictions

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NFC South Predictions for 2022

By Tim Lazenby

The NFC South is a tale of uncertainty.  While the Buccaneers finally have Tom Brady back at the helm, there are questions for each team when it comes to the quarterback.  As we try to predict how 2022 will go for each team in the league, let’s see how things shake out for the NFC South.

Atlanta Falcons

Record in 2021: 7-10-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 3-13-1

Strengths and Weaknesses

When considering the strength of the Falcons, you need look no further than first round pick Drake London and elite tight end Kyle Pitts.  This duo should be quite formidable for any opponent.  That being said, there are so many weaknesses and most of them have not even been addressed.  London and Pitts will have to strap the team on their backs for any hope whatsoever.

Situation to Watch

I can’t believe we’re living in a world where Matt Ryan is not the starting quarterback for the Atlanta Falcons.   In only three games since 2007, has anyone not named Matt Ryan started for Atlanta.  The team now turns to Marcus Mariota.  It will be fascinating to see how he does at the helm, as the Raiders have largely used him as a decoy to rush the ball.  Let’s also not forget that the Raiders just drafted Bearcats’ quarterback Desmond Ridder too.  Things just got interesting.

Conclusion

I completely forgot that this team was a 7 win team last season.  I just expected so much worse with how I view this squad.  The list of players to get excited about with this team is so much smaller than most teams and I don’t see them making much noise next season.  They are poised for a great draft pick in the loaded 2023 class.

Carolina Panthers

Record in 2021: 5-12-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 6-11-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

Matt Rhule is on his last legs as bench boss for the Panthers.  If he wants his best shot at proving the haters wrong, he has to find a way to use players like DJ Moore and Christian McCaffrey, but not overuse them.  The two are the strength of the team, but defenses have figured out Rhule’s schemes very quickly.  He has to adapt and involve others in his usage in order to play meaningful games late in the season.

Situation to Watch

Just like with the Falcons, I’m super interested to see what will happen with the quarterback room in Carolina.  I’d find it exceptionally unlikely that Sam Darnold survives through 2022 in Carolina.  I just can’t wait for Matt Corral to finally get his shot and while you never know with rookies, I just have a feeling he’ll be worth a shot at commanding this team moving forward.

Conclusion

I just want to go on record and say that I don’t think Matt Rhule is a bad coach.  He’s turned underperformers into winners; just look at his time with Temple and Baylor.  That being said, unless he changes his play calling he’s not going to survive.   I worry that the Panthers will not get better under Rhule and that’s going to be the case in 2022.

New Orleans Saints

Record in 2021: 9-8-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 4-13-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

New Orleans’ receiver room was not great last season, but this year they will be light years better.  Michael Thomas will be back, Jarvis Landry has signed and Chris Olave has been drafted.  It’s hard not to be excited, but you should also be a little nervous as Thomas hasn’t caught the ball in over a year and a half and it’s from Jameis Winston instead of Drew Brees.

Situation to Watch

With a deep receiving room for the first time in a while, I’m curious to see how this will affect Alvin Kamara.  Although you want to use his otherworldly abilities over and over, he can finally be used for quality rather than quantity.  There are legal hurdles to overcome first, but this will be a situation to monitor when the time comes.

Conclusion

Like a few other teams before this one, I can’t believe how low ranked I have the Saints’ win total.  In my prediction, a five game losing streak in the middle of the season is going to derail them faster than anything.  But of all of the predictions for all of the teams, this is the one where I would bet against me.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Record in 2021: 13-4-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 11-6-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

Tom Brady.  Tom Brady.  Tom Brady.  I’m not here to diminish the rest of the team because, make no mistake, they are among the best.  But if we’re being real with each other, I’m pretty sure he’s not human.  That being said, it all hinges on Brady.  This means that the team has no plan B and that can be a scary concept.

Situation to Watch

The offense for 2022 has taken a pretty big step back from 2021.  As of now, Gronkowski isn’t playing and although Cameron Brate is serviceable, it’s not the same.  Despite all his antics, Antonio Brown to Russel Gage is also a big leap.  Add to that the extended injury of Chris Godwin and it will be something to see in how Tom Brady uses these weapons on the current roster.

Conclusion

Until Tom Brady decides to retire for real, I can’t see the Buccaneers giving up their stranglehold on this division.  And until he retires I can’t see Tampa Bay as out of contention for the championship.  While I don’t see them with 13 wins in 2022, the 11 that they will get is plenty enough to go where they want.  It’s another year of Tom Brady slapping Father Time in the face for us all to watch.

 

Follow me on Twitter @NFLazenby

AFC West Predictions for 2022

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AFC West Predictions for 2022

By Tim Lazenby

Almost any expert is in agreement that the AFC West will be the most competitive division in the NFL in 2022.  Featuring the already strong Kansas City Chiefs, all three other teams have made massive improvements to compete.  Exploding with talent, how will the four fair in the upcoming season?  I haven’t been this excited to watch a division battle it out in quite some time.  Let’s discuss.

Denver Broncos

Record in 2021: 7-10-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 9-8-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

Obviously Russell Wilson makes this team loads better, and the continued growth of this young receiver core is very appealing.  Let’s not forget about Javonte Williams and Denver’s criminally underrated defense.  The glaring weakness is next year’s draft capital.  In a loaded draft class, the Broncos will be watching as the Seattle Seahawks use Denver’s first and second round picks.  Russell Wilson had better be the long term solution or this plan has backfired tremendously.

Situation to Watch

With Wilson taking almost every headline in the mile high city, my attention actually focuses elsewhere.  Patrick Surtain was an absolute gem last season and many people didn’t notice.  Although he’s not at the level of players like Jalen Ramsey yet, the rookie was still very dominant.  The once mighty Denver defense has not been up to snuff in the past few seasons, but the future looks bright with Surtain at corner.

Conclusion

There’s no doubt in my mind that this team will improve.  There’s almost no area in which they regressed in the offseason and the team hasn’t had a star quality quarterback since Peyton Manning led the charge.  If they were in any other division, the record would be even better, but this squad just won’t measure as well as a couple others.  The record will look brighter, but it won’t be enough in 2022.

Kansas City Chiefs

Record in 2021: 12-5-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 10-7-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

The trio of Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and Andy Reid gives even the worst team in the NFL a chance at glory.  Creed Humphrey is also a big reason for the success of the offense.  But JuJu Smith-Schuster, Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Skyy Moore are not a replacement for Tyreek Hill.  And even though the group is not terrible, it’s hard not to see it as a weakness when you consider what they had before.

Situation to Watch

I will be closely monitoring the backfield moving forward.  If I’m being honest, I’m still a Clyde Edwards-Helaire truther, but signing Ronald Jones is the final nail in the coffin that tells me CEH will not succeed until he moves on.  This team will have to lean on the ground game more now than ever to make up for the loss of dynamic Tyreek Hill.

Conclusion

Although this team will take a step back or two, trading away the Cheetah will not cause this team to buckle.  The once guaranteed champion of the AFC West, however, will be a thing of the past.  With the other three improving, the Chiefs are far and away the least improved, leaving someone else to take the lead next season.

Las Vegas Raiders

Record in 2021: 10-7-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 8-9-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

If you thought the Raiders’ offense showed promise last year, you’re in for an awakening.  Not a rude awakening, mind you, but a breath of fresh air.  Las Vegas offensive stars were largely unheralded, but it’s a new day with Davante Adams in town.  That being said, the defense let this team down more than anything.  There are studs like Maxx Crosby but the loss of Yannick Ngakoue hurts.

Situation to Watch

I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t watching the connection of Derek Carr and Davante Adams.  You have to believe Adams will take a step down now that he’s not with Aaron Rodgers, but let’s not forget the bromance between he and bestie Carr going all the way back to college.  In a side note, I’ll also be watching Josh Jacobs closely.  Las Vegas not picking up his fifth year option is flat out stupid.  I’m sure he’ll make them regret it.

Conclusion

Make no mistake, in this division anyone has a chance to take the lead, but I don’t think it will be the Raiders.  Even I question my prediction of 8-9-0.  How will they do worse than last season even though they’re improved?  Much like the Broncos, the Raiders play in this division, which is a flat out juggernaut.  The Raiders, to make things worse, have the 7th toughest schedule in the entire league.  I predict three straight losses out of the gate, making it really hard to succeed in the standings.

Los Angeles Chargers

Record in 2021: 9-8-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 14-3-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

I need to be honest when I say this is my favorite team.  That being said, I believe I am an impartial writer.  I have seen the woes before and do not always see the light with this squad.  Now that you know this, the number of strengths are at the top of the league.  The offense led by Justin Herbert and defense led by Derwin James equals flat out dominance.  If I have to pick a weakness, it’s Brandon Staley’s fourth down guts.  His boldness cost the team greatly in 2021 and he needs to be more conservative.

Situation to Watch

I think most fans will be watching for the newest additions on defense like JC Jackson, Khalil Mack and Sebastian Joseph Day; and rightfully so.  I, however, will be watching for first round pick Zion Johnson out of Boston College.  The solidification of the offensive line was their biggest need and this kid dazzled me at the combine.  When I threw his name out there on twitter on March 4th, I may have been the biggest believer that wasn’t being paid to analyze the situation.

Conclusion

Part of me wants to be cautious.  I’ve had so many times watching my favorite teams across all pro sports when I felt there was a giant there only to be disappointed.  But this time, I think I’m right in my assessment.  The three losses I predicted for this team were generous.  On a rookie contract for Justin Herbert, this team is Super Bowl or bust and I don’t think there will be a bust in 2022.

 

Follow me on Twitter @NFLazenby

AFC North Predictions

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AFC North Predictions for 2022

by Tim Lazenby

 

Heading toward 2022 faster than we all think, each team in the NFL has the chance to repeat greatness or correct disaster.  Whether you finished dead last or won the Lombardi Trophy, each team begins anew with an unscathed record.  As we look at the AFC North, it is a division ripe with rivalry and storylines.  Let’s attempt to figure out how each team will do for the upcoming season.

 

Baltimore Ravens

Record in 2021: 8-9-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 9-8-0

 

Strengths and Weaknesses

Last season the Baltimore Ravens were decimated with injuries.  Looking ahead, a healthy, albeit unhappy, Lamar Jackson is crucial to the team’s success.  Arguably the best tight end in the league on your team doesn’t hurt, and let’s not forget about promising JK Dobbins coming back from injury himself.  The worry is that even though there are high hopes for Rashod Bateman, the receiving group is among the least tested in the entire NFL.  

 

Situation to watch

All eyes are on Kyle Hamilton when it comes to draftees from the Ravens this off season, and why not?  He fell so far, the value was insane.  But I’m even more interested in fellow first round pick, Tyler Linderbaum.  With Bradley Bozeman leaving for Carolina, Eric DeCosta drafted just what the doctor ordered.  The only thing holding Linderbaum back is his size but thankfully, putting on weight is a lot easier than putting on talent.

 

Conclusion

If I’m being honest here, I don’t see how the Ravens only get 9 wins if the team stays healthy, but I have to stand by my assessment.  I see some key losses early on and a bad stretch to end the season.  Until they can do better against their own division, it’s not going to look pretty.  That being said, I can still see them in the playoffs.

 

Cincinnati Bengals

Record in 2021: 10-7-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 12-5-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

I can still hear, “WHO DEY” in my sleep.  Talk about fans coming out of the woodwork.  When it comes to offenses, there aren’t many higher powered than the Bengals.  Once Burrow and Chase reunited, they didn’t look back.  But I can’t remember such a bad offensive line carrying their team so far as they did for the Bengals last season.  And even though it’s vastly improved, you wonder if it’s enough.

 

Situation to watch

As I mentioned before in the glaring weakness for the Bengals, the offensive line needs to improve drastically for further success.  While Joe Burrow is fantastic, he’s not a magician.  Getting sacked 70 times last season had to take a toll.  And while the Cinderella run was awe inspiring, if this situation is not corrected, there will be no ball next time; just disappointed mice and a smashed pumpkin.

 

Conclusion

My prediction for this team is quite believable considering what they accomplished last season.  The offensive talent is brimming over the edge, but let’s not forget about the unheralded defense, with the secondary in particular.  While fans are probably still jeering poor Eli Apple, players like Chidobie Awuzie and Mike Hilton are at the top of their game.  I have no doubt that the Bengals take the AFC North again, only this time it will be with more authority.

 

Cleveland Browns

Record in 2021: 8-9-0  

Predicted Record in 2022: 8-9-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

When it comes to the Cleveland Browns, the running game led by Nick Chubb is among the best in the NFL.  Possibly the best pure runner in the league, when paired with a healthy Kareem Hunt, it can be mesmerizing.  The highly polarizing arrival of Deshaun Watson will bring a new era, but it comes with its own drama.  Changing the team’s identity is not a task easily performed.

 

Situation to watch

The first fully healthy season from Myles Garrett since 2018 did not disappoint.  While names like TJ Watt, Aaron Donald and Micah Parsons are spoken of so often as elite defenders, (and rightfully so), so many forget to mention Garrett.  He needs to receive more praise for what he does each season.  On a side note, I’d also love to see a full season from Denzel Ward and Jadeveon Clowney.

 

Conclusion

I can’t wait for the day when I don’t see a drama headline about either Deshaun Watson or Baker Mayfield when it comes to Cleveland.  I see this team underachieving, not due to a lack of talent, but due to the noise.  If they can settle down and just play football, they have the tools to contend for the division, but it doesn’t seem likely for 2022.  Another year, it seems, of middling progress before they find their footing awaits.

 

Pittsburgh Steelers

Record in 2021: 9-7-1  

Predicted Record in 2022: 11-6-0

Strengths and Weaknesses

When it comes to the strengths of the Steelers, Najee Harris leads the charge and don’t forget about underrated Diontae Johnson at receiver.  But as we all know, the quarterback situation is quite uncertain.  It’s coming down to last chance Mitchell Trubisky or fresh from the draft Kenny Pickett.  While neither are expected to be Big Ben, it’s worrisome in these uncharted waters.

 

Situation to watch

Obviously, as we just discussed, the situation to watch is the quest to find the heir apparent for Roethlisberger.  And even if it is decided eventually, I can’t see it being right away.  Yinzers will have to hold their breath as they eagerly await the captain to steer this ship.  After all, the last time Big Ben wasn’t the starter it was Tommy Maddox leading the charge.  It just feels strange to see anyone else, but we must press on.

 

Conclusion

Much like the Ravens, my prediction for the Steelers surprises even me.  In my heart of hearts, there has to be regression, but based on my calculations, it’s actually looking upward for Steel Town.  In order for this to happen, there can’t be any wasted time.  The defense must carry the team until the starting quarterback emerges.