NFL Football 2006 NFC South Preview
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NFL Football: 2006 NFC South Preview
In the third part of his 2006 NFL Preview, Dwayne Bryant from Bullseye-Sports.com offers insights and predictions for the NFC South. Teams are listed based on their forecasted finish.
1. Carolina Panthers
Offense:
Wide receiver Steve Smith dazzled last season with 103 catches, 1,563 yards, and 12 touchdowns after returning from a 2004 injury. The addition of Keyshawn Johnson should ease the pressure on Smith, reducing double and triple coverage. Johnson's run-blocking will also aid running back DeShaun Foster, though injury-prone, with first-round pick DeAngelo Williams likely sharing the workload. Coach John Fox typically focuses on the run but might consider a balanced attack given the talent of Smith, Johnson, and quarterback Jake Delhomme. Expect this offense to maintain its late-season momentum from last year.
Defense:
Carolina boasts a formidable defense, spearheaded by pass-rushers Julius Peppers and Mike Rucker, who combined for 18 sacks even in a down year. The team strengthened its interior with Maake Kemoeatu and Damione Lewis. Linebacker Dan Morgan faces injury concerns, while cornerbacks Ken Lucas and Chris Gamble offer strong coverage. In 2005, the defense ranked third in yards allowed and fifth in points, with 45 sacks and 42 takeaways. Expect continued excellence from this unit.
Special Teams:
Steve Smith poses a constant return threat, while kicker John Kasay made 26 of 34 field goal attempts, with five of his misses coming from beyond 50 yards.
Prediction:
Carolina excels in every phase, positioning them to win the competitive NFC South and potentially secure a first-round playoff bye.
2. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Offense:
The offense hinges on Cadillac Williams, with coach Jon Gruden favoring a conservative play style to maximize his touches. Williams aims to surpass last year’s 1,178-yard, 6-touchdown rookie season despite previous ankle issues. With Joey Galloway and a healthy Michael Clayton, expect Clayton to become quarterback Chris Simms’ primary target. The offensive line, problematic last season, has been bolstered through drafts and free agency but will need time to develop cohesion.
Defense:
Tampa Bay’s defense topped the league in yards allowed last year. Defensive end Simeon Rice recorded 14 sacks, and the linebacker trio of Derrick Brooks, Shelton Quarles, and Ryan Nece is excellent. While cornerbacks Ronde Barber and Brian Kelly are playmakers, losing safety Dexter Jackson could expose vulnerabilities. Though aging, this defense remains tough.
Special Teams:
The kickoff return team struggled in 2005, though Mark Jones averaged 9.6 yards on punts. Kicker Matt Bryant was reliable, hitting 21 of 25 field goals.
Prediction:
The Bucs are strong playoff contenders, especially if Cadillac Williams stays healthy. They could challenge for the division if the offensive line improves swiftly.
3. Atlanta Falcons
Offense:
Leading the league in rushing the past two seasons, this offense thrives on running backs Warrick Dunn, T.J. Duckett, and quarterback Michael Vick. Dunn is elusive, while Duckett is a force near the goal line. However, the offense’s inconsistency mirrors Vick's struggles with accuracy and decision-making. While tight end Alge Crumpler remains his go-to target, more balance is needed with recent top draft picks Michael Jenkins and Roddy White. Expect inconsistencies to persist.
Defense:
Ranking 22nd last year, this unit faced injury issues and lacked pass rush strength. With the addition of John Abraham and key players like Rod Coleman and Patrick Kerney, the front four looks solid. The secondary, featuring cornerback DeAngelo Hall, improved with additions of safety Lawyer Milloy and rookie Jimmy Williams. This defense should better last year's performance, barring injuries.
Special Teams:
Return specialist Allen Rossum’s numbers fell, but DeAngelo Hall might take on punt returns. Kicker Todd Peterson's role is uncertain for the season.
Prediction:
If Vick progresses as a passer, the Falcons could vie for a playoff spot. Otherwise, expect another 8-8 season.
4. New Orleans Saints
Offense:
With a healthy Drew Brees, the Saints’ offense shows promise. New coach Sean Payton will likely task Brees with managing the game as the talented backfield, including Deuce McAllister and rookie Reggie Bush, are key. Regardless of McAllister's status, expect Bush to feature prominently in various roles. Brees also benefits from targets like Joe Horn and Donte Stallworth.
Defense:
Struggling last year, the defense ranked near the bottom in rushing and points allowed. With few offseason improvements, challenges remain. The defensive line is sound, but the linebacker corps falters in all areas. Significant adjustments are needed with new additions to see improvement.
Special Teams:
Returner Michael Lewis’s comeback should boost performance. Veteran kicker John Carney remains consistent.
Prediction:
Even if Brees is fully fit, the defense needs work before the team can aim for the playoffs. A slow start is likely, with potential late-season improvement, leading to an expected 6-10 record.
Final Thoughts
Carolina is a top contender for the NFC Championship. Tampa Bay should secure a wildcard slot, provided the offensive line stabilizes. Atlanta’s fate relies on Vick’s consistency, determining whether they finish third in the division or reach the playoffs. The Saints are progressing but need a couple more years before contending for postseason action.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: NFL Football 2006 NFC South Preview.
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