There was a changing of the guard in the NFC Conference last season, as the Carolina Panthers surprised everyone with a near-perfect season and a Super Bowl appearance. Will that set up an intriguing encore in 2016?
NFC Breakdown
Let’s take a look at what teams in the NFC may be able to challenge the Panthers for a spot in the Super Bowl this season.
NFC East
This division is up in the air, as all four teams have the talent to compete, but also have obvious flaws. The Cowboys will have to survive the first half of the season without Tony Romo, while the Eagles and Giants are both adjusting to new coaches. This makes Washington the most stable team in the division, which could end up being a big advantage.
NFC North
As long as Aaron Rodgers is still around, the Packers are going to be favorites in this division. Green Bay was down last season, but they look like a Super Bowl caliber team heading into 2016. Meanwhile, the Vikings look strong defensively, but losing quarterback Teddy Bridgewater will hurt their chances of keeping pace with the Packers. The Bears and Lions are both a level below Green Bay and Minnesota, but those teams may be able to surprise some people and push for a playoff spot in 2016.
NFC South
This is Carolina’s division to lose, as they look poised to dominate the division and make another run to the Super Bowl. Atlanta and New Orleans will be interesting to watch as well, as both have a quarterback capable of leading a team to the playoffs with enough help around them. Finally, Tampa Bay’s success may rest on the development of quarterback Jameis Winston in his second NFL season.
The Seahawks and Cardinals are two of the best teams in football, so they will fight tooth and nail for the division crown this season, while the other may have to settle for a wild card spot. Both the Rams and 49ers pale in comparison from a talent perspective, and could have an uphill battle if they expect to make any noise in 2016.
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