Best in the West
When it comes to the NFL, there are certain things even the most casual fan can conclude with a decent level of certainty. For example, it would be more than reasonable to say that the Kansas City Chiefs are going to take the AFC West this year. It would also be a feasible conclusion, given the retirement of Drew Brees and the trading of Julio Jones, to say that Tampa Bay will take their seat atop the NFC South. So instead of talking about the possibilities in divisions where the outcome seems somewhat intuitive, let’s consider a division that faces a much higher level of uncertainty.
The NFC West is a power packed division that has had multiple contenders every year in recent memory. Three of the four teams in this group have had at least one super bowl appearance in the last decade, and the one team that has not is picking up momentum at a rate that is difficult to ignore. It would not be overly surprising to see two of these teams in the playoffs this year, but the question remains. Which team will win the division?
The Seattle Seahawks are one of the most consistently quality teams in recent years. They have transformed into a high flying offense that has become difficult to stop. Russell Wilson seems to be in the MVP race year in and year out these days, and he has the receiving core to back him up. They also added a couple key defensive pieces during the summer, including defensive end Aldon Smith. It is difficult to see an outcome in which they don’t at least push for a division title.
The Rams have proven to be stiff competition as well in the last few years. Led by Aaron Donald, their defense will continue to be a force to be reckoned with. It also appears that they found their every down back in Cam Akers near the end of the season. The only question that remains is how Matthew Stafford will adjust. He certainly has the weapons to succeed, and if he finds his stride, the Rams will be tough to beat.
The Cardinals became a threat for the first time in years last season, and they picked up some big names in the off season. The addition of JJ Watt and Malcolm Butler could spell trouble for opposing offenses who were already finding it difficult to keep up. They have possibly the best wide receiver in the league in Deandre Hopkins, so if Kyler Murray can continue to grow, and AJ Green can find his old form, this offense will be intimidating.
Lastly, we have the wild card of the bunch, the Niners. We may not know who is going to be under center this year, but I’m not certain that it matters. Even plagued by injuries last year they still found a way to be one of the best run offenses in the league. George Kittle is a one man wrecking crew and if he can remain healthy, that will only stretch out defenses further. Add this all together with a scary defense led by Nick Bosa, they will find success regardless of who is at quarterback.
There is no clear answer to who will win the NFC West, but one thing is certain. This division is going to be a nail biter right down to the finish line.