Now that the draft, free agency and the first set of minicamps have come and gone, teams are close to being set in terms of personnel. The schedule is in place for every team, and this time of year presents the first somewhat realistic opportunity to look ahead. Of course, there could still be player movement, and injuries are always a monkey wrench in terms of gauging which teams are poised for a big year. With all that being said, its time for the first set of fearless predictions for the 2006 season, including who will make the playoffs.
AFC East Top Two Finishers: New England and Miami
The Patriots, for the first time in two years, are looking to recapture the title they lost last season. Any team with the combination of Bill Bellichek and Tom Brady has a chance to win it all, and with the Bills and Jets at least a year away, the Pats will win the division. The Dolphins have uncertainty at QB, but also have a star coach in Nick Saban and talent all over the field.
AFC North Top Two Finishers: Pittsburgh and Cleveland
Pittsburgh is the defending Super Bowl Champion, and they return most of their team. Their nucleus is young, and Bill Cowher will...