2009 NFL Preview: NFC

NFC East

Things just got a lot more interesting in the NFC East after last week's epic signing of Michael Vick. This acquisition puts the Eagles over the top as not only the top contender for the division crown, but also for the Super Bowl crown. Just by having Vick on the roster is going to give fits to opposing defensive coordinators who have to plan for him.

The only difference between the upcoming season for the Cowboys and last season is that snazzy new billion dollar stadium they have. Other than that, it will be another sub-par season for the Cowboys. The defense will keep the Giants in games but a ton of question linger with their weak group of wide receivers. The division race will be close early, but the Eagles will pull away as just the more balanced team.

NFC North

The NFC North is probably the most improved division in the NFL going into 2009. Both Jay Cutler and Brett Favre drastically improved their respective teams' offenses. The Packers already had a good offense, but their defense basically sealed the deal with their 6-10 season.

It's going to be a great division race that will go to Week 17 to determine a winner. The Vikings will edge out both the Packers and the Bears to take the division by one game, mostly thanks to their defense and "All Day" Adrian Peterson.

NFC South

The Falcons almost surprised everyone last season by coming up just short of winning the division on the backs of Matt Ryan and Michael Turner. If Ryan can avoid the sophomore slump then the Falcons will take the NFC South without much of a fight. Ryan does avoid the slump and helps get the Falcons back on top.

The high octane offense of the Saints led by Drew Brees may stand in the Falcons' way. However, there's hardly a defense and not enough talent for the Saints to pull the division out.

The Panthers are a big question all around. The biggest question surrounds whether Jake Delhomme has passed his prime or not. The Bucs might be one of the worst teams in the NFC and they'll be lucky to win four games.

NFC West

No team may have an easier road to a division championship than the Arizona Cardinals. Three of the NFL's worst teams reside in the NFC East. The Seahawks, 49ers, and Rams will all be below average teams in 2009. Out of those, the Seahawks probably have the best chance. The Cardinals win this division and it will be all but official by Week 10.

NFC division winners: Eagles, Vikings, Falcons, and Cardinals
NFC wild card winners: Giants and Packers