Dwayne Bryant s 2006 NFL Preview Part One NFC East
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Dwayne Bryant’s 2006 NFL Preview: NFC East
In this first installment of an eight-part series, sports handicapper Dwayne Bryant shares his insights and predictions for the 2006 NFL season, focusing on the NFC East.
Predicted Standings
1. Dallas Cowboys
Offense:
The Cowboys made a splash by adding receiver Terrell Owens, enhancing their offensive power. Owens’ presence ensures single coverage for Terry Glenn and creates more opportunities for tight end Jason Witten. Running backs Julius Jones and Marion Barber are also expected to benefit. Dallas drafted tight end Anthony Fasano to implement a two-tight-end strategy, which Coach Bill Parcells plans to use in all downs to keep defenses uncertain. The main concern is the offensive line's ability to protect QB Drew Bledsoe, though the team did strengthen the line by signing tackle Jason Fabini and guard Kyle Kosier.
Defense:
The switch to a 3-4 defense worked well, ranking 12th in points allowed and 10th in yards. OLB DeMarcus Ware showed promise in his rookie season, and his performance is expected to improve. The lineup includes ends Marcus Spears, Chris Canty, and Gregg Ellis for a strong pass rush. With new additions like rookies Bobby Carpenter and Akin Ayodele to the linebacker corps, and solid cornerbacks Terence Newman and Anthony Henry, Dallas's defense looks formidable.
Special Teams:
Kicker Mike Vanderjagt, the most accurate in NFL history, joins the team. Despite leaving the indoor stadium, his stats suggest he will thrive. Return specialist Tyson Thompson set records but is yet to score a touchdown on a return.
Prediction:
With a more explosive offense and a maturing defense, the Cowboys are among the NFC's top teams and strong contenders for the NFC Championship.
2. New York Giants
Offense:
QB Eli Manning showed significant progress and is expected to improve further. RB Tiki Barber led the NFL in yards from scrimmage in 2005, and if he remains durable, the offense remains dangerous. WR Plaxico Burress had a successful year, and rookie Sinorice Moss might surpass Amani Toomer. TE Jeremy Shockey could hit double-digit TDs if he stays healthy.
Defense:
The pass defense struggled, ranking 27th, despite a strong defensive line. New additions like CBs Sam Madison, R.W. McQuarters, and safety Will Demps aim to strengthen the secondary. LB LaVar Arrington is expected to boost the front seven’s performance.
Special Teams:
Kicker Jay Feely delivered a solid 2005 and is expected to have more scoring opportunities. Chad Morton is a dynamic return man who can shift field position.
Prediction:
Manning’s growth should keep the offense effective, but improvement is needed in the secondary. The Giants will compete for second in the division and a Wildcard spot.
3. Washington Redskins
Offense:
The question is whether QB Mark Brunell can sustain his performance or if Jason Campbell will take over. The team added receivers Brandon Lloyd and Antwaan Randle El to support Santana Moss. TE Chris Cooley is a red zone threat, while RB Clinton Portis looks to build on a strong 2005 season.
Defense:
Adding Andre Carter aims to enhance the pass rush, but aggressive play-calling will still be required. Despite losing LB LaVar Arrington, the defense remains strong with a reliable secondary led by Shawn Springs and safeties Sean Taylor and Adam Archuleta.
Special Teams:
Kicker John Hall, though battling injuries, was accurate in 2005. Randle El is expected to bolster punt returns.
Prediction:
Quarterback performance is key. With Brunell past his prime and Campbell inexperienced, the Redskins may struggle to rise beyond third in the division.
4. Philadelphia Eagles
Offense:
Without Terrell Owens, the Eagles return to a spread offense. WR Reggie Brown shows promise, while QB Donovan McNabb will look often to TE L.J. Smith. RB Brian Westbrook is crucial in the passing game, and keeping key players healthy is critical for success.
Defense:
The defense saw a decline in 2005, ranking low in points and yards allowed. New additions like DE Darren Howard and DT Brodrick Bunkley are expected to rejuvenate the line, which should boost linebacker and secondary performance.
Special Teams:
David Akers remains a top-tier kicker, and Reno Mahe excelled in punt returns.
Prediction:
While placed last in the division, the Eagles could perform much better if core players stay healthy. In any other division, they might rank higher.
Final Thoughts
The Cowboys are poised to take the NFC East, but all teams have a fighting chance if circumstances align. Dallas seems ready to dominate the NFC, with the Giants vying for the title. The Redskins need reliable quarterback play, while the Eagles could surprise with McNabb’s leadership. It’s the most challenging division, and even with tough matchups, none may finish worse than 7-9.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Dwayne Bryant s 2006 NFL Preview Part One NFC East.
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