NFL 2009/10: 10 observations before we get underway

NFL / Andy Richmond / 09 September 2009 / Leave a Comment

"Brett Favre tries to end on a high at the Vikings, but his indoor record is poor and Tom Brady returns for the Patriots - if he struggles will the "dismissal" of Cassell returns to haunt the Pats?"

Andy Richmond has been gazing deep into his crystal ball and has 10 teasers for you ahead of the new NFL season

The road to Superbowl XLIV starts on Thursday and there are 44 and more reasons as to why this will be one of the most fascinating seasons ever but time and space only offer me the chance for 10 thoughts on the new season.

Pittsburgh Repeat? - Yes, they retain most of the Superbowl winning team - but that superb defence will be needed again.

Quarterbacks - Brett Favre tries to end on a high at the Vikings, but his indoor record is poor and Tom Brady returns for the Patriots - if he struggles will the "dismissal" of Cassell returns to haunt the Pats?

Tough Divisions - Two that you don't want to be in - AFC South and NFC North, competitive all year long.

Weak Divisions - AFC West, a cakewalk for San Diego, surely!! And NFC West, a face off between the birds - Cardinals and Seahawks, last year's Superbowl losers have history against them.

New Coaches - There are 11 new head coaches this year (ties the NFL record) - a volatile season awaits, especially with lots of coaching talent waiting in the wings. Thirteen of the current crop has less than two years experience.

Hot Seat - Two men under pressure from the start will be Wade Phillips and Jim Zorn at the Cowboys and Redskins respectively - their pressures make both teams vulnerable.

Michael Vick Returns - The Eagles were the NFL franchise to take a chance the disgraced Vick - it may pay dividends as a McNabb/Vick axis is dangerous and could give the Eagles another dimension.

Players to Watch - Anthony Gonzalez (Colts), Ray Rice (Ravens), Aaron Rodgers (Packers) and Mario Williams (Texans).

Four Against The Field - Chargers, Eagles, Saints and Packers.

Topsy Turvey NFL - Expect the unexpected, in each of the last 13 seasons, at least five teams earned playoff berths after not qualifying for the postseason the previous year. In 2008, there were seven such entrants. Don't forget to have a punt on a couple of teams at big odds - the Texans and the Seahawks look over priced to me.