1. San Diego Chargers
Players to Watch: Philip Rivers, Ryan Matthews, Danny Woodhead, Malcom Floyd, Keenan Allen, Antonio Gates, Manti Te'o, Dwight Freeney, Brandon Taylor Why so angry, Phil? Alright, alright, I'll admit, I am a Manti Te'o fan (regardless of the fake girlfriend mishap), and I am desperately reaching with this pick, but I have faith in a Chargers team undergoing some much needed revamping. Philip Rivers, one of the more polarizing quarterbacks in the NFL, is a player you'll either love or hate (just ask Jay Cutler). One thing about his game that often goes overlooked, however, is his ability to throw the deep ball with pinpoint accuracy. Coach Norv Turner is no longer on the sidelines as ex-QB Mike McCoy will now be calling the shots, expect to see Philip Rivers smile a little more often (although probably not that much), and expect to see his numbers rise exponentially. McCoy has proven to be a fantastic QB coach in the past, so having him mentor the still relatively young Rivers should bring the Chargers back to the playoffs. Also, expect Danny Woodhead to fulfill the role of ex-Charger Darren Sproles. They are remarkably similar players and can give their respective teams a proper boost in late-game situations. Malcom Floyd and rookie Keenan Allen (Cal) should also reap the benefits of having a refueled Philip Rivers. Both receivers are lengthy and able to go up and make some phenomenal receptions over smaller defenders. Expect Rivers and the Chargers to lead the AFC in yards per reception this year. Defensively, the Chargers have a few spots to fill, but with the recent draft and signing of ex-Colts superstar Dwight Freeney, the Chargers are on the right track. Expect the 3-4 (something Freeney is already acclimated to running) to benefit the team, while also allowing Te'o to maneuver around the field and make plays on the edges and in the middle of the field. Te'o is my favorite for defensive rookie of the year this year (and that's not solely based on personal bias). Also, look for a big season from LSU rookie Brandon Taylor. Taylor is coming off of an ACL injury that sidelined him for some time, but recent reports indicate he is way beyond ready to play at a high level for the Chargers' secondary. The Chargers should finish with a respectable 10-6 record on a relatively easy schedule, thus giving them the sixth and final spot in the AFC playoffs.
Honorable Mentions:
1. Chicago Bears 2. Minnesota Vikings 3. Cincinnati Bengals 4. Baltimore Ravens 5. Miami Dolphins
Note: The Denver Broncos will prevail in the AFC championship over Houston and head to the Super Bowl to play the 49ers. I crown the Denver Broncos as the 2013-2014 Super Bowl Champs! If you have any comments, feedback, or NFL opinions, leave them in the comments section below!