"The Patriot Way" - A New England Patriots dynasty (M25 CFM)

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AMERICAN FOOTBALL CONFERENCE PREVIEW - 2013

New England Patriots

The New England Patriots have been the class of this division for much of the past decade, and that does not appear to be any different despite the plethora of changes on the roster.

With Tom Brady continuing to anchor the Patriots offense, his talent and leadership alone will cover the deficiencies on that side of the ball.

Certainly, there is concern with the departure of Wes Welker and Aaron Hernandez. The two men expected to step up are Danny Amendola and Rob Gronkowski, two players who can't be fully counted on due to their inability to stay healthy.

Rookie Aaron Dobson shined throughout the preseason with the first team offense, as Doug Kyed of NESN notes.

Will the Patriots rank among the top teams in the conference? That remains to be seen. The weaknesses on the defense can't be ignored, and the offense will not be fully capable of bringing this team a 12 or 13 win season.

Nonetheless, a postseason berth is likely in their future.

Prediction: 11-5, first place in AFC East

Miami Dolphins

Offensively, the Dolphins can be a playoff contender due to the surrounding talent. Yet, they missed the opportunity to add two veterans who could have improved their chances.

Eric Winston would have been an upgrade over Jonathan Martin, who didn't show encouraging signs at right tackle last year and now has to move to the left side.

Miami also missed on fullback Vonta Leach, who could have solidified the running game and helped Lamar Miller become an elite running back in this league.

While Mike Wallace is a quality receiver, he is a very good pass catcher, but nowhere near the same class as Calvin Johnson, Julio Jones, etc.

Defensively, the unit should see an improvement. However, they need Brent Grimes and Dannell Ellerbe to stay healthy for an entire 16-game season. That is no guarantee.

It wouldn't be a shocker if Miami managed to live up to expectations, but it should also not come as a surprise if the franchise endures another losing season in 2013.

Prediction: 8-8, 2nd place in AFC East

Buffalo Bills

While my current prediction for the Bills is a losing record, don't overlook the possibility of this roster proving to become one of the bigger surprises in 2013.

Granted, there are lingering weaknesses at the quarterback position. However, if rookie E.J. Manuel emerges as the starter by Week 1, the talent is in place to pose the Bills as a threat in the AFC.

The combination of rookie Robert Woods on the outside, along with veteran Stevie Johnson in the slot, is a great complement to the dynamic running game of C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson.

Though, Manuel continues to digest a pro-style offense under rookie head coach Doug Marrone and offensive coordinator Nate Hackett. It could be a rough stretch at first for Buffalo, but the potential is there for the Bills to challenge the Patriots for the division crown if everything goes right.

Prediction: 6-10, 3rd place in AFC East

New York Jets

The outlook on the New York Jets this season is quite simple.

Rex Ryan's defense will be a unit that will manage to keep the Jets competitive on most Sundays in 2013.

Yet, in a league where offenses typically decide the outcome, Gang Green's offense is one of the worst offenses in the league.

The ongoing quarterback competition doesn't matter in the grand scheme of things. Neither Geno Smith or Mark Sanchez will succeed with an average offensive line that only has two consistent veterans in the rotation.

Chris Ivory can be a quality addition, but can he stay healthy? If not, is Bilal Powell capable of getting 20-25 carries? The receivers are in an even worse situation, with an aging Santonio Holmes accompanied by a developing project in Stephen Hill.

Four wins won't be enough to save Rex Ryan's job, but it would be impressive considering how poorly assembled the offense is.

Prediction: 4-12, 4th place in AFC East

Pittsburgh Steelers

Coming off a lackluster 8-8 campaign in 2012, the Pittsburgh Steelers are primed for a return to relevancy as a contender in the AFC.

Quite frankly, it was a wakeup call. Youth was needed on both sides of the football, most notably their elite defense, to contend for the AFC North crown.

Although the secondary is an elderly unit, the defensive front will continue to be stout run stoppers and bring plenty of pressure to elite quarterbacks.

On the offensive side, Ben Roethlisberger and Todd Haley enter year two with plenty of motivation to prove that they are still at the top of their game.

The additions of rookies Le'Veon Bell and Markus Wheaton are going to be crucial for the Steelers success as they revert back to providing a quality balanced attack.

Due to the combination of veterans and surging young talent, along with a lesser daunting schedule, Pittsburgh's finest will prove to be a threat to the Denver Broncos for the AFC crown.

Prediction: 11-5, 1st place in the AFC North

Cincinnati Bengals

The Cincinnatti Bengals, who endured a second straight first-round postseason exit, are eager to make the jump among the AFC's elite.

And while Andy Dalton hasn't carried the team to a championship yet, the young and improving talent around him has put Cincinnati in a position to return to the playoffs for a third straight year.

The Bengals didn't have enough weapons for Dalton and receiver A.J. Green last year? No problem. Rookies Tyler Eifert and Giovani Bernard are capable of not only pushing the veteran starters for playing time, but also allowing offensive coordinator Jay Gruden to show more creativity with his offensive sets.

An improvement with the offense could pave the way for a defense that is not appreciated enough around the league, with All-Pro Geno Atkins continuing to build on a 2012 season that made him one of the more feared lineman in the game.

Prediction: 10-6, 2nd place in the AFC North

Baltimore Ravens

The buzz surrounding the overhaul of the Baltimore Ravens roster has been made clear. For Baltimore's defense, their unit will be as feared as we have seen over the past decade.

They are younger and faster, and their front seven will be a force if they all stay healthy. The return of Lardarius Webb to the secondary is a major positive for this roster.

With two of Joe Flacco's more reliable targets gone, it's up to veterans Ed Dickson, Jacoby Jones and receiver Tandon Doss to provide the production.

Time will tell if chemistry can be built with those three over the course of the season. In the meantime, expect a major dose of Ray Rice, Bernard Pierce and Vonta Leach for opposing defenses.

If Flacco builds upon his successful playoff run and can work with veteran talent stepping up, the Ravens can avoid all of the injuries and roster turnover with a return to the postseason.

Though, there are too many questions needing to be answered for me to guarantee the Ravens another postseason berth.

Prediction: 9-7, 3rd place in the AFC North

Cleveland Browns

My optimism for the Cleveland Browns getting over the hump has dropped significantly over the past two months. Not only am I unsure if Norv Turner can turn Brandon Weeden into an efficient quarterback, but his supporting cast doesn't provide a vote of confidence either.

Josh Gordon is injury prone and will miss the first two games due to violating the league's substance abuse policy. He hasn't given any indications of emerging as the top receiver that the franchise is looking for.

Jordan Cameron could blossom with a new head coach and offensive coordinator, but there is no guarantee a young and unproven talent can be a guarantee to have success.

The defense will be a solid unit under Ray Horton, but can Paul Kruger and Barkevious Mingo quickly become a formidable pass-rush tandem? I need to see it to believe it.

Prediction: 5-11, 4th place in AFC North

Houston Texans

The Houston Texans don't have anything to prove in the regular season. They have become playoff contenders the last two seasons, and it would be a surprise if the same result didn't occur this year.

DeAndre Hopkins is a quality receiver who can open up the passing game for Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson. He is capable of becoming a receiver that resembles the role of Julio Jones, a young and elite receiver paired with an established veteran.

The return of Brian Cushing and the addition of Ed Reed adds the leadership that the defense lacked for most of last season.

Ultimately, the question still remains whether or not Schaub can bring the Texans beyond a simple postseason victory over the Bengals, or have they reached their ceiling with their current quarterback at the helm.

Prediction: 11-5, 1st place in AFC South

Indianapolis Colts

The Indianapolis Colts are an incredibly hard team to predict. One would expect Andrew Luck to grow in his second year with Pep Hamilton leaving Stanford and reuniting with his former quarterback. The development of the youth and the presence of the veterans makes the Colts a potentially dangerous team come playoff time.

Then again, did the offensive line actually improve significantly, or were the additions in free agency blown a bit out of proportion? Did the team benefit from being on the winning end in close games and playing with emotion due to the health problems Chuck Pagano faced?

The jury is out on the Colts. While it seems they can continue to grow in 2013, it's very possible that they just miss out on the postseason in a conference that did improve over the offseason.

Prediction: 10-6, 2nd place in the AFC South

Tennessee Titans

Head coach Mike Munchak is putting himself and his coaching staff in a dangerous position. They are potentially putting their careers with the Tennessee Titans in the hands of a third-year quarterback who hasn't shown the confidence that he can win in the league with his arm.

From the standpoint of Jake Locker, there are no excuses not to perform. The additions of Chance Warmack and Andy Levitre not only will improve his pass protection, but also improve the running lanes for Chris Johnson and work with a balanced attack.

The addition of Justin Hunter could be an intriguing combination with Kendall Wright, along with Kenny Britt if he can ever stay healthy.

The Titans put all of their efforts towards improving the offense and ignoring a defense that wasn't impressive last season to begin with. This plan is likely to backfire on Munchak more than anything.

Prediction: 6-10, 3rd place in AFC South

Jacksonville Jaguars

The upcoming season won't be a fair way to judge the future of the Jacksonville Jaguars. The franchise is in good hands with general manager Dave Caldwell and head coach Gus Bradley.

Yet, Blaine Gabbert hasn't given anyone any reason to believe that he can salvage his career with Jacksonville beyond this year.

The offense will run through Maurice Jones-Drew, who is in a contract year and looking to prove himself that he is still among the elite running backs in the league.

The two rookies to watch out for are safety John Cyprien, who could be due for a great first season under Bradley as he works with a coach who built great secondaries in Seattle.

Meanwhile, it's unknown how the Jaguars will use Denard Robinson, and it will be intriguing to see how effective he can be on an offense with such so much unproven talent.

Prediction: 2-14, 4th place in AFC South

Denver Broncos

The Denver Broncos are not only the clear cut team to beat in the AFC West, but rather the entire conference.

Wes Welker and Louis Vasquez are two veterans who join a Broncos offense that was one of the more balanced units in the league already.

On defense, the Broncos lost Elvis Dumervil but solidified depth at linebacker and improved the secondary with the addition of Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie.

This roster will plow over most of the NFL, but the remaining question whether or not it will lead to a Super Bowl title.

Prediction: 13-3, 1st place in AFC West

Kansas City Chiefs

After a disappointing season in 2012, the Kansas City Chiefs find themselves with a veteran head coach and a quarterback wanting to prove his worth to a franchise.

Andy Reid and Alex Smith are working on instilling an offense that can give defenses plenty of looks, as they work with the West Coast and the Pistol formation to their advantage.

Jamaal Charles could be in a position for the best season of his career, while Dwayne Bowe looks to prove he was worth the lucrative contract he received this offseason.

It will be worth watching to see how Reid utilizes Dexter McCluster, who could find his role as a slot receiver.

The defense boasted a great group of individual talent, but that didn't stop the front office from bolstering the secondary with the acquisitions of Sean Smith and Dunta Robinson.

As a result, the Chiefs could benefit from a relatively soft schedule and find their way into the postseason.

Prediction: 8-8. 2nd place in AFC West

San Diego Chargers

The San Diego Chargers are in a good position moving forward now that head coach Mike McCoy will have time to orchestrate an offense that made him successful with the Broncos.

Though, the change won't happen overnight. His first big challenge as a head coach is realizing Philip Rivers' decline as a passer. The current personnel in place doesn't compare to what he had while in Denver.

Can Ryan Matthews live up to the expectations that the team has bestowed upon him? It seems that the team needs to see it to believe it, as his inability to stay on the football field has prevented him from improving in his development.

It remains to be seen how the Chargers move forward after 2013 with or without Rivers as the franchise quarterback.

Prediction: 6-10, 3rd place in AFC West

Oakland Raiders

The Raiders aren't in a fortunate position to look forward towards the future, as the direction of the franchise could change again after a disastrous 2013 season.

Terrelle Pryor taking the reigns as a starting quarterback will be the biggest storyline when Week 1 comes around. However, where is the talent to support the former Supplemental draft pick?

Rod Streater has been the most consistent receiver thus far in camp, according to Jerry McDonald of InsideBayArea. He will have the opportunity to continue standing out, as the receiver depth chart is filled with young players who haven't hit their stride at the pro level.

Darren McFadden is the team's most talented player, but is not effective on a weekly basis due to his health issues.

It would be a shock if the Raiders didn't finish last in the division, and potentially with the worst record in the league.

Prediction: 2-14, 4th place in AFC West

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NATIONAL FOOTBALL CONFERENCE PREVIEW - 2013

Dallas Cowboys

On paper, the Dallas Cowboys are arguably the most talented team in the division and should emerge from the tight division race as the winners.

The problem? The offensive line may have improved, but it's not near an elite level that could allow Tony Romo to make wiser decisions with the football.

A running game will be essential this season, but the team is putting its faith in DeMarco Murray, who has been plagued by injuries dating back to his college days.

On the opposite side of the ball, Monte Kiffin will attempt to revitalize a defense that disappointed last season. The cornerbacks on the roster, led by Morris Claiborne and Brandon Carr, are young and talented. They both provided plenty of inconsistency last year, however.

Meanwhile, the safety position hasn't exactly been fully improved as well.

Overall, there is enough talent on the roster to make a run at the division. However, when in doubt it seems best to never rely on Tony Romo in a big game when it matters most.

But, I firmly believe that this is the year that the Cowboys snag the NFC East title.

Prediction: 10-6, 1st place in NFC East

New York Giants

In a division that is known to be one of the more difficult to win outright, the New York Giants have enough experience of winning on the big stage to prepare for the upcoming season.

A pattern has followed in recent seasons after the Giants win a Super Bowl. With that following season proving to be a disappointment, Big Blue is recharging its batteries as it prepares for another stretch run.

Reuben Randle is the best candidate to become the Giants most improved player, and could take advantage of his involvement with the offense if (or should I say when) Hakeem Nicks battles injuries over the course of the season.

The defense won't compare to its defenses from previous championship runs, but the idea of Justin Tuck performing in a contract year along with Jason Pierre-Paul could provide the necessary spark for the Giants to win the games needed to become division champions.

Prediction: 8-8, 2nd place in NFC East

Washington Redskins

The Redskins are a franchise that is tied to its second-year quarterback who is coming off an ACL tear just seven months ago.

Will he return to full strength? It can't be guaranteed. Nobody knows how quickly Robert Griffin III will revert back to his impressive performance of his rookie year.

Teams are likely to become worried of risking their quarterbacks' health through the read option, which played a large factor into the Redskins success.

What if the read option is not as big as a component of the offense compared to a season ago? RGIII will be challenged to rely on his ability to be a pocket passer, which could play into the many defenses that are scheming to contain RGIII.

The Redskins also did not make many improvements in the offseason due to the surplus of picks they gave in the trade that allowed them to acquire the former Heisman winner.

That could be the ultimate difference in why the Redskins come up short of the division crown.

Prediction: 8-8, 3rd place in NFC East

Philadelphia Eagles

There will be no middle ground for the Eagles this season. They could be the NFL's biggest surprise as Chip Kelly's offense revolutionizes the game as he leads this franchise back to the postseason.

However, Kelly's inability to win with Michael Vick or Nick Foles could lead to a last-place finish in 2013.

The Eagles' best bet is for LeSean McCoy to greatly benefit from Kelly's up-tempo offense, with DeSean Jackson having a bounce-back season as he returns fully healthy.

Although, will the controversy surrounding Riley Cooper infect the Eagles locker room over the course of a 16-game season, as mentioned in the Star Ledger? It's more likely that his presence will do more harm than good for the Eagles, who have not parted ways with Cooper after the incident.

Prediction: 6-10, 4th place in NFC East

Green Bay Packers

The Green Bay Packers represent the model of consistency. They have built a foundation for success in both the regular season and postseason, no matter what kind of obstacle is in their way.

This year is no different.

That won't prevent Aaron Rodgers from connecting with Randall Cobb and Jordy Nelson on a weekly basis, as both receivers will have an increased workload with Greg Jennings' departure.

How much does the injury affect Eddie Lacy and Johnathan Franklin? It does to an extent, but the running game has never been the focal point of a Mike McCarthy offense.

As for the Packers' defense, a healthy Clay Matthews can anchor a defensive front that involves a lot of rotating parts. If the pass rush can be as effective as it was a few years ago during their Super Bowl run, then the Packers will certainly be in contention with the NFC's elite.

Prediction: 11-5, 1st place in NFC North

Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears begin a new era of football in 2013 with offensive architect Marc Trestman running the show.

It's clear that the Bears will go as far as Jay Cutler can take them. However, will Cutler elevate his play in a contract season?

The talent surrounding him is as good as ever before, with a young Alshon Jeffery continuing to grow alongside Brandon Marshall.

It remains to be seen whether Cutler can work enough with a Bears offensive line that made a few minor improvements in the offseason.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Bears lose not only a leader in Brian Urlacher, but also former head coach Lovie Smith. How will the unit perform with the changes in leadership?

Unfortunately, the Bears' tough schedule against the NFC's best will likely keep them outside of the postseason despite having a winning record.

Prediction: 10-6, 2nd place in NFC North

Detroit Lions

The Detroit Lions appear to have an improved roster on paper, with the addition of Reggie Bush to the high octane offense in Detroit.

Whether or not the offensive line will show an improvement should be a concern for the Lions. It will not only play a role into Matthew Stafford's efficiency, but it would also impact Bush's production on the field.

Though, if the Lions wish to return to the postseason, the defensive front will be absolutely key. Ziggy Ansah was drafted based on his potential and athleticism, but that doesn't translate to immediate success on the football field.

The secondary is led by veterans Chris Houston and Glover Quin, but that won't prevent opposing offenses from challenging the younger cornerbacks on a consistent basis.

While the Lions have the talent to be in the mix for a wild-card spot, they are a few pieces away from stabilizing themselves as a threat in the NFC.

Prediction: 7-9, 3rd place in NFC North

Minnesota Vikings

As the NFC continues to have an increase in playoff caliber teams, the Minnesota Vikings seem more of a threat beyond 2013 as opposed to this season.

The departure of Percy Harvin isn't as big of a loss since the Vikings went to the postseason without him last season.

However, the challenge that Leslie Frazier faces is limiting Adrian Peterson's overall carries, and putting his trust in Christian Ponder. Ponder came up big during their playoff clinching win over the Packers last season.

Greg Jennings can be an effective veteran target for Ponder, but his inability to stay healthy makes him a bit of a concern. Is Kyle Rudolph prepared to have an increased role in the offense and emerge among the elite tight end core? He hasn't proven to elevate his game on a consistent basis.

Meanwhile, the departure of veteran Antoine Winfield will have an impact on a young Vikings secondary that was led by the veteran who left for the Seahawks.

Frazier will learn a lot about Ponder, and unfortunately the results will hint that it may be time to look at another quarterback prospect in the near future.

Prediction: 5-11, 4th place in NFC North

Atlanta Falcons

After the Atlanta Falcons came up a few plays short of representing the NFC in the Super Bowl, management decided to slightly shake up the roster through the draft and free agency.

Steven Jackson was the most notable acquisition, as he provides a running game for an elite offense that could not find consistency from Michael Turner in 2012. The signing of Osi Umenyiora was an effective move over an older defensive end in John Abraham.

Through the draft, the Falcons began instilling youth into their secondary, most notably rookie Desmond Trufant.

The biggest concerns for the Falcons would be the offensive line, along with their young secondary continuing to grow.

However, their up-tempo and balanced offense can be enough for the Falcons to avenge their loss from last season and shake off the notion that this team can't win in the postseason.

Prediction: 12-4, 1st place in NFC South

New Orleans Saints

The New Orleans Saints are bound for a return to the postseason as Sean Payton takes back the reigns of his team.

Payton regaining control of the play-calling duties accomplishes two things—an uptempo offense that utilizes Drew Brees' quick release along with limiting his turnovers.

While the Saints continued to produce offensively, the return of Payton ensures a more aggressive offense that gains even more confidence with its leader returning to the sidelines.

It was also clear that the league's worst defense needed changes across the board. Rob Ryan will provide his defense with a kind of personality that the Saints unit displayed during their run to a championship.

The addition of safety Kenny Vaccaro fills a massive upgrade for a secondary that wasn't going to be an easy fix.

As long as the defense shows signs of improvement in 2013, the Saints will propel themselves to a double-digit win season and a playoff berth.

Prediction: 10-6, 2nd place in NFC South

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

For two straight offseasons, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have improved their team on both sides of the football. But will that be enough to fend off the Falcons and the Saints in their own division?

The defense got its wish with a massive overhaul this offseason, as Darrelle Revis and Dashon Goldson provide immediate improvement to the secondary.

However, there was no improvement to its defensive front, which means that Gerald McCoy and Da'Quan Bowers must juggle most of the load. While it will be difficult to throw against the Buccaneers defense, a lack of pass rush could lead to offenses taking advantage of the extra time by challenging the root of the secondary.

This year, it's Mike Glennon under center. His performances will ultimately determine how well this team performs in 2013.

Prediction: 8-8, 3rd place in NFC South

Carolina Panthers

The spotlight for the Carolina Panthers will be on Cam Newton, who hasn't delivered a winning season since he was selected No. 1 overall by the franchise.

A major reason why is the lack of talent in the passing game around Newton. With much of their salary cap dedicated to their running back trio, Newton has not been able to rely on his teammates consistently outside of Steve Smith.

Newton's lack of supporting talent, along with an average defense playing behind him, will result in a last-place finish in a difficult division.

Prediction: 7-9, 4th place in NFC South

Seattle Seahawks

The ongoing divisional rivalry between the San Francisco 49ers and Seattle Seahawks prompted a barrage of upgrades by Seattle.

With the additions of Cliff Avril and Michael Bennett, the Seahawks enter the 2013 regular season with the best defense in the league despite the injuries which have occurred in recent months.

The Seahawks were a playoff team last season without Percy Harvin and the aforementioned additions, their presence will only help Russell Wilson lead his team back to the postseason. There is enough talent on the roster to dethrone San Francisco as the division winner.

Prediction: 12-4, 1st place in NFC West

San Francisco 49ers

The 49ers were the class of the NFC last season, emerging as the favorite with Colin Kaepernick and were seconds away from winning another Super Bowl.

They added well in free agency and the draft, bringing in players such as Glenn Dorsey as well as Eric Reid and Corey Lemonier through the draft.

Anquan Boldin becomes the immediate player to match Michael Crabtree's production. Though, chemistry will take time, and with a Week 2 matchup against the Seahawks, the 49ers could lose their grip on the division early on in the season.

Regardless, the remaining talent on this roster makes the 49ers a contender in the NFC. Kaepernick is in a great position where he can continue improving as a pocket passer, while the defense continues to play as one of the more dominant units in the league.

Prediction: 11-5, 2nd place in NFC West

St. Louis Rams

The St. Louis Rams make the NFC West a three-way race in 2013. With the selections of Tavon Austin and Stedman Bailey, there cannot be any questions asked regarding the supporting cast for Sam Bradford.

Now, can Bradford prove to his detractors that he is capable of living up to the hype of the No. 1 overall pick? If he can't show us this year, it seems less likely that it will happen.

An observer of the game knows that Jeff Fisher's teams are physical teams with a quality work ethic. He has shown the ability to get the most from players who create a name for themselves in his system.

Last season, the expectations were low as the Rams only lost one game in the division and made progress in 2012. The defense will continue to improve as Cortland Finnegan and Janoris Jenkins are out to prove their worth as the next dynamic cornerback duo, with Chris Long and Robert Quinn forming a unique combination of their own.

Ultimately, the Rams have the talent to challenge for the division and even win it. Though, before one believes the hype, Sam Bradford must elevate his play to the level of the other young quarterbacks in the division.

Prediction: 7-9, 3rd place in NFC West

Arizona Cardinals

The Cardinals are on the losing end of playing in the league's best division. From the veteran leaders of Larry Fitzgerald and Darnell Dockett, to Patrick Peterson and Michael Floyd, there won't be a team that will look forward to playing Arizona.

If that's the case, then why are the Cardinals primed to win only five games? The main reasons involve head coach Bruce Arians and quarterback Carson Palmer.

We quickly forget that while Arians did a very impressive job in Indianapolis, he worked with a once in a generation quarterback over an entire season.

In 2013, he is working with a veteran quarterback who is on the decline. Never regarded as a mobile quarterback, Palmer might face more difficulty with an offensive line that is currently viewed as a below average.

Both of these men are in a difficult spot. Arians wants to prove that his track record will resemble his time with the Colts last year, as opposed to the Steelers where his play-calling was much more predictable with Ben Roethlisberger.

Due to the questions on offense, along with playing in a tougher conference, the focus will soon turn towards building for 2014.

Prediction: 5-11, 4th place in NFC West

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NFL Power Rankings: Where Does Every Team Stand Heading into Week 1?

NFL Power Rankings
RK (LW)	Team	Record	Next Game
1 (--)	San Francisco 49ers	0-0	vs. Green Bay Packers (FOX)
2 (--)	Seattle Seahawks	0-0	at Carolina Panthers (FOX)
3 (--)	New England Patriots	0-0	at Buffalo Bills (CBS)
4 (--)	Denver Broncos	0-0	vs. Baltimore Ravens (NBC)
5 (--)	Green Bay Packers	0-0	at San Francisco 49ers (FOX)
6 (--)	Pittsburgh Steelers	0-0	vs. Tennessee Titans (CBS)
7 (--)	Atlanta Falcons	0-0	at New Orleans Saints (FOX)
8 (--)	New Orleans Saints	0-0	vs. Atlanta Falcons (FOX)
9 (--)	Cincinnati Bengals	0-0	at Chicago Bears (CBS)
10 (--)	Baltimore Ravens	0-0	at Denver Broncos (NBC)
11 (--)	Indianapolis Colts	0-0	vs. Oakland Raiders (CBS)
12 (--)	Chicago Bears	0-0	vs. Cincinnati Bengals (CBS)
13 (--)	Houston Texans	0-0	at San Diego Chargers (ESPN)
14 (--)	St. Louis Rams	0-0	vs. Arizona Cardinals (FOX)
15 (--)	New York Giants	0-0	at Dallas Cowboys (NBC)
16 (--)	Washington Redskins	0-0	vs. Philadelphia Eagles (ESPN)
17 (--)	Miami Dolphins	0-0	at Cleveland Browns (CBS)
18 (--)	Dallas Cowboys	0-0	vs. New York Giants (NBC)
19 (--)	Kansas City Chiefs	0-0	at Jacksonville Jaguars (CBS)
20 (--)	Philadelphia Eagles	0-0	at Washington Redskins (ESPN)
21 (--)	Tampa Bay Buccaneers	0-0	at New York Jets (FOX)
22 (--)	Carolina Panthers	0-0	vs. Seattle Seahawks (FOX)
23 (--)	Minnesota Vikings	0-0	at Detroit Lions (FOX)
24 (--)	Cleveland Browns	0-0	vs. Miami Dolphins (CBS)
25 (--)	Arizona Cardinals	0-0	at St. Louis Rams (FOX)
26 (--)	Detroit Lions	0-0	vs. Minnesota Vikings (FOX)
27 (--)	San Diego Chargers	0-0	vs. Houston Texans (ESPN)
28 (--)	Buffalo Bills	0-0	vs. New England Patriots (CBS)
29 (--)	New York Jets	0-0	vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (FOX)
30 (--)	Tennessee Titans	0-0	at Pittsburgh Steelers (CBS)
31 (--)	Jacksonville Jaguars	0-0	vs. Kansas City Chiefs (CBS)
32 (--)	Oakland Raiders	0-0	at Indianapolis Colts (CBS)

Game To Watch: Green Bay Packers at San Francisco 49ers
Game To Avoid: Miami Dolphins at Cleveland Browns
Projected Blowout: Pittsburgh Steelers over Tennessee Titans
Nail-Biter: Atlanta Falcons at New Orleans Saints

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Matchup Preview *|* September 8, 2013
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New England Patriots (0-0, 0-0 Away)		Buffalo Bills (0-0, 0-0 Home)
Top Offensive Players Tom Brady Quarterback E.J. Manuel Stevan Ridley Running Back Fred Jackson Danny Amendola Wide Receiver Stevie Johnson Rob Gronkowski Tight End Scott Chandler Top Defensive Players Vince Wilfork DT Defensive Line Mario Williams DE Jerod Mayo OLB Linebackers Manny Lawson OLB Devin McCourty FS Defensive Backs Jairus Byrd FS Injury Report Marcus Cannon/Upper Arm Fracture 1 Week Corbin Bryant/Shoulder Tear 1 Week Chandler Jones/Pulled Groin 2 Weeks C.J. Spiller/Dislocated Ankle 2 Weeks Dan Connor/Broken Thumb 2 Weeks Cordy Glenn/Upper Arm Fracture 3 Weeks Game Notes Where: Ralph Wilson Stadium, Orchard Park, New York Game time: 1:00 p.m. EDT Game weather: 65 °F (18 °C), sunny Referee: Walt Anderson TV announcers (CBS): Greg Gumbel (play-by-play), Dan Dierdorf (color commentator) and Tracy Wolfson (sideline reporter) Tom Brady vs. E.J. Manuel (Patriots win) Stevan Ridley vs. Bills Linebackers (Patriots win) Patriots Offensive Line vs. Bills Defensive Line (Bills win) Patriots Wide Receivers vs. Bills Defensive Backs (Tie) Patriots Linebackers vs. Fred Jackson (Patriots win) Patriots Defensive Line vs. Bills Offensive Line (Patriots win) Patriots Defensive Backs vs. Bills Wide Receivers (Patriots win) Patriots Special Teams vs. Bills Special Teams (Patriots win) Prediction: Patriots 31, Bills 10

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PATRIOTS OPEN UP SEASON WITH WIN - AMENDOLA IMPRESSES ON PATS DEBUT



AMENDOLA HAD 7 GRABS FOR 105 YARDS IN HIS 1ST GAME WITH THE PATRIOTS

Orchard Park, NY -- There was a sense of déjà vu surrounding the New England Patriots' opening day 33-17 victory over the Buffalo Bills. Quarterback Tom Brady was throwing the ball to a small slot receiver from Texas Tech with relative ease. But in this case, it was Danny Amendola and not Wes Welker catching the passes from the veteran signal-caller.

Amendola had 7 receptions for 105 yards in his Patriots debut as they cruised to a comprehensive victory but they didn't have it all their own way.

Brady only had a 50% completion percentage on the day for 278 yards, 2 touchdowns and an interception as the Patriots finished with only 1 conversion on 3rd down (10 attempts). Brady's pick was also returned for a touchdown by Aaron Williams.

However, the Patriots did have a lot of positives. Their defense forced 4 turnovers (all E.J. Manuel picks) as Aqib Talib recorded 2 interceptions, as Alfonzo Dennard and Devin McCourty also had a pick each. On offense, receiver D.C. Jefferson stepped up and hauled in 3 receptions for 30 yards and a touchdown in the absence of Rob Gronkowski who fractured his foot on his lone reception of the game; on the Patriots' opening drive.

LeGarrette Blount was the other receiver to record a touchdown as he took a screen pass 69 yards to the house.

Bills' quarterback Manuel struggled in his first NFL career start as he threw for under 100 yards, 1 touchdown and 4 interceptions. The New England defense made it Manuel's time torrid.

The Patriots have opened up the season well and on a short week, they need all the momentum they can get. They face the Jets on Thursday Night in their opening home game of the season.

New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills
Sep 8, 2013	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
New England Patriots (1-0)	10	6	7	10	33
Buffalo Bills (0-1)	7	3	7	0	17

Team Stats Comparison
	NE	BUF
Total Offense	370	208
Rushing Yards	99	111
Passing Yards	271	97
First Downs	16	11
Punt Return Yards	65	10
Kick Return Yards	118	65
Total Yards	553	283
Turnovers	1 (+3)	4 (-3)
3rd Down Conversion	1-10 (10%)	4-14 (28%)
4th Down Conversion	0-0 (0%)	1-2 (50%)
2-Point Conversion	0-0 (0%)	0-0 (0%)
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	2/1	1/0
Penalties	1-6	0-0
Possession Time	19:24	36:36

New England Patriots PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Tom Brady 19/38 278 2 1 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Stevan Ridley 13 96 7.3 1 Brandon Bolden 2 2 1.0 0 LeGarrette Blount 2 1 0.5 0 James Develin 1 6 6.0 0 Shane Vereen 1 0 0.0 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Danny Amendola 7 105 14.9 0 D.C. Jefferson 3 30 10.0 1 Julian Edelman 2 33 16.5 0 Stevan Ridley 2 -6 -3.0 0 LeGarrette Blount 1 69 69.0 1 Michael Hoomanawanui 1 12 12.0 0 Shane Vereen 1 17 17.0 0 Aaron Dobson 1 18 18.0 0 Rob Gronkowski 1 0 0.0 0 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Jerod Mayo 11 0.0 0 0 Brandon Spikes 7 0.0 0 0 Rob Ninkovich 7 1.0 0 0 Devin McCourty 6 0.0 1 0 Adrian Wilson 4 0.0 0 0 Vince Wilfork 4 0.0 0 0 Kyle Arrington 3 0.0 0 0 Alfonzo Dennard 2 0.0 1 0 Logan Ryan 2 0.0 0 0 Michael Buchanan 2 0.0 0 0 Dont'a Hightower 1 0.0 0 0 Steve Gregory 1 0.0 0 0 Dane Fletcher 1 0.0 0 0 Tavon Wilson 1 0.0 0 0 Aqib Talib 1 0.0 2 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Stephen Gostkowski 4/4 3/3 15 55 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Drew Butler 5 233 46.6 1 (2) KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Matthew Slater 2 73 36.5 0 Danny Amendola 1 26 26.0 0 Julian Edelman 1 19 19.0 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Julian Edelman 6 65 10.8 0

Buffalo Bills PASSING C/A YDS TD INT E.J. Manuel 13/24 98 1 4 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Fred Jackson 29 68 2.3 0 E.J. Manuel 7 39 5.5 0 Tashard Choice 1 4 4.0 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Robert Woods 4 54 13.5 1 Scott Chandler 4 22 5.5 0 T.J. Graham 2 19 9.5 0 Fred Jackson 1 -4 -4.0 0 Marquise Goodwin 1 6 6.0 0 Tashard Choice 1 1 1.0 0 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Kiko Alonso 8 0.0 0 0 Mario Williams 6 0.0 0 0 Stephon Gilmore 4 0.0 0 0 Alan Branch 3 0.0 0 0 Aaron Williams 3 0.0 1 1 Nigel Bradham 2 0.0 0 0 Ron Brooks 2 0.0 0 0 Leodis McKelvin 2 0.0 0 0 Nickell Robey 2 0.0 0 0 Manny Lawson 2 0.0 0 0 Jonathan Meeks 2 0.0 0 0 Arthur Moats 2 0.0 0 0 Jairus Byrd 2 0.0 0 0 Alex Carrington 1 0.0 0 0 Kyle Williams 1 1.0 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Dustin Hopkins 1/1 2/2 5 53 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Brian Moorman 6 263 43.8 0 (0) KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Leodis McKelvin 3 65 21.6 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Leodis McKelvin 1 10 10.0 0

[zzuBuzz]

Bill Belichick Postgame Press Conference Transcript

Belichick: It wasn't perfect, but it was good to win

Orchard Park, NY -- New England Patriots Head Coach Bill Belichick addresses the media following the Patriots regular season game versus the Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium on Sunday, September 8, 2013.

General Comments:

"I was proud of our team today. I thought they made the plays at the end of the game that they needed to win. That's what it's about. Obviously it wasn't perfect. There's a lot of things we can do better. We played the last few minutes of the game the way we need to play it, and we were able to execute and make the plays. It's always tough to win in the division, on the road. It's good to get off to that start, and now we've got a real quick turnaround for the Jets."

On passing game:

"We had our moments. There were times when it was good; times when it wasn't so good and needs to be better. But we'll build on this."

On chemistry between Brady and Amendola:

"We had our moments. I thought Danny [Amendola] stepped up and made some big catches in some tough situations. Tom [Brady], as always, competed like he always does. He made some great throws in critical times."

Did Buffalo do anything early that took you out of your rhythm?

"They're a good football team. They're very good defensively. They've got a good front. They play aggressively; have an aggressive scheme. We let them back in the game with some turnovers, but then we fought our way out of it and we're able to make some plays in the end to win."

On preparing for rookie QB and rookie coach:

"There's always a lot of unknowns on opening day. It's always that way. Teams have a lot of time to prepare, and you haven't seen anything throughout the preseason. It's always a challenge on opening day. We had to make a lot of adjustments in all three phases of the game during the game, but that's normal."

On D.C. Jefferson:

"I thought D.C. stepped up and did a good job for us. We counted on him a lot in the passing game filling in for Gronk. He got us some key first downs, forced [Buffalo] to use another time out. He also bagged himself a TD; so we're happy with what he brought to the table."

On turnovers:

"That's the NFL. You've got to take care of the ball better. We were fortunate to come up with a few defensively, but we've got to take care of the ball better."

On offensive chemistry & new faces:

"We've got a couple new players over there. That's everybody in the league. But there's a lot of guys out there we've seen a lot before; all the offensive line, quarterback, running back. There's a lot of guys who've played a lot of football for us."

On Rob Gronkowski's injury:

"It was unfortunate to lose him so early on his return from a long, injury layoff. Gronk needs all the game time he can get having played four times since November of 2012. So it was unfortunate to lose him but I'm confident with the bodies we have to fully cope with his absence."

[timbeau0805]

Fantastic reporting here. Good win to start off the season!