Dwayne Bryant s 2006 NFC North Preview
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Dwayne Bryant's 2006 NFC North Preview
Overview
In the second part of his eight-part 2006 NFL Preview, sports handicapper Dwayne Bryant offers his insights and predictions for the NFC North division, ranking the teams in the order he believes they will finish.
1. Chicago Bears
Offense
The Bears continue to rely on their strong running game, spearheaded by Thomas Jones and Cedric Benson. While these two shared responsibilities last season, expect Benson to eventually emerge as the lead back, justifying his first-round selection. The quarterback, whether Rex Grossman (likely), Kyle Orton, or Brian Griese, will play a caretaker role in a ball-control offense complemented by a solid defense. Wide receivers Muhsin Muhammad, Justin Gage, Mark Bradley, and Bernard Berrian add depth, but don’t expect dramatic improvement from last year's average of 256.3 yards and 16.3 points per game.Defense
Chicago’s defense is their undeniable strength, allowing only 12.6 points per game last year, the best in the league. Despite losing CB Jerry Azumah and S Mike Green, the addition of CB Ricky Manning from the Panthers aims to fill the gap. The defense ranked second in yards allowed, tied for second in interceptions, sixth in total takeaways, and eighth in sacks. Defensive ends Alex Brown and Adewale Ogunleye, along with DT Tommie Harris, lead a formidable pass rush. MLB Brian Urlacher is the standout in a talented linebacker group. The secondary features Mike Brown, Charles Tillman, and Nathan Vasher, with 16 interceptions last season, returning three for touchdowns.Special Teams
Struggles in this unit need addressing. Kicker Robbie Gould hit only 3 of 8 field goals beyond 40 yards, and the return teams were underwhelming. Bernard Berrian’s speed offers potential improvement.Prediction
With a dominant defense and effective running game, the Bears are predicted to lead the division comfortably.2. Minnesota Vikings
Offense
Under new head coach Brad Childress, the Vikings are adopting the West Coast offense, aligning with QB Brad Johnson’s strengths in short passing. Receivers Koren Robinson, Travis Taylor, and Troy Williamson should excel in this system. TE Jermaine Wiggins is also expected to perform well. The offensive success largely depends on RB Chester Taylor, who, backed by an excellent offensive line and FB Tony Richardson, can showcase his dual-threat capabilities.Defense
Switching to the Cover 2 scheme, Minnesota’s defense is poised to thrive. Ends Kenechi Udeze and Erasmus James provide speed and disruption. Rookie OLB Chad Greenway is anticipated to make an immediate impact. The secondary, led by corners Fred Smoot and Antoine Winfield, forms a fast unit likely to generate big plays. The team is well-equipped to adapt quickly to the new scheme.Special Teams
Punt returner Mewelde Moore had an impressive average of 11.7 yards and scored a return touchdown. Koren Robinson excelled with a 26-yard average on kick returns. New kicker Ryan Longwell is expected to do well at the Metrodome.Prediction
With an improving defense, solid special teams, and promising offense, the Vikings are poised for second place in the NFC North.3. Detroit Lions
Offense
The arrival of offensive master Mike Martz as coordinator brings optimism. The Lions boast former first-round picks Kevin Jones, Roy Williams, Mike Williams, and Charles Rogers, offering size and red zone potential. However, questions about QB efficacy (Jon Kitna or Josh McCown) and offensive line protection remain.Defense
With head coach Rod Marinelli leading the transition to a Cover 2 defense, expect an aggressive approach. Coordinator Donnie Henderson emphasizes pressure, hoping to improve last year’s performance. The linebacker trio of Ernie Sims, Boss Bailey, and Teddy Lehman shows promise. Despite forcing 31 turnovers and scoring three defensive touchdowns last season, the focus will be on reducing the 127.5 rushing yards allowed per game.Special Teams
Eddie Drummond aims to replicate his 2004 return success after a lackluster previous year. Kicker Jason Hanson remains reliable and could see increased opportunities.Prediction
Detroit’s potential hinges on adapting to new schemes. While a slow start is likely, expect a strong finish.4. Green Bay Packers
Offense
Injuries devastated the Packers in 2005, with key players like WR Javon Walker and RBs knocked out. Brett Favre, while past his prime, still has potential. Protecting him and finding a WR to ease pressure is crucial. RB Samkon Gado may take on a prominent role given the injury issues with Ahman Green and Najeh Davenport.Defense
The Packers made significant changes, including adding tackle Ryan Pickett, rookie LB A.J. Hawk, and veteran secondary players Charles Woodson and Marquand Manuel. Rookie LB Abdul Hodge might quickly rise to a starting role. Although new additions like Kabeer Gbaja-Biamila and Aaron Kampman should pressure opposing QBs, expect gradual defensive improvement with these changes.Special Teams
Green Bay’s special teams were weak, ranking last in kickoff returns. With the departure of proven kicker Ryan Longwell, new options Billy Cundiff and Dave Rayner don’t inspire confidence.Prediction
Favre’s potential farewell season looks challenging with coaching changes, uncertainties on offense, and special teams setbacks, likely placing them at the division’s bottom.Final Thoughts
The Bears stand out as the leading NFC North team. With their rivals adjusting to new coaching staff and systems, Chicago should secure the top spot quickly. However, expect Minnesota and Detroit to show significant progress in the latter half of the season.You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Dwayne Bryant s 2006 NFC North Preview.
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