Note: This article was supposed to come out weeks ago, but I simply forgot it. I had a loved one in the hospital, and the world simply had to stop until she was out. By then, this article was the furthest thing from my mind. I’ve tweaked NOTHING in the article aside from adding a second note at the very end, and I’m tickled by how on the money I am after two games.
Strongest Offense: PHILADELPHIA – The only weakness on this unit is TE depth. While RB could also use a stronger backup, the pieces are here for a by committee approach. As far as the starters, this team has the best Offensive line in the division, and the best 1-2 punch at WR possibly in the NFL.
Weakest Offense: NEW YORK – None of the skill players scares anyone, and the QB is practically a burning orphanage on Christmas Eve. They are however, developing an offensive line for next year’s QB.
Strongest Defense: PHILADELPHIA – Entering the season, there are questions about one of the Corners, but otherwise this unit has added enough raw athleticism at every level, to compete with even units built for pure speed. That’s not to say it’s perfect, but the issues that this unit has, are pretty common throughout the division. Philly just has more depth and ability to mix and match, which limits the opportunities for opponents to find mismatches to exploit.
Weakest Defense: WASHINGTON – This team should be strong right down the middle, but they lack weapons that can consistently make a difference. By season’s end however, they just MIGHT surrender fewer points than the giants. Washington has a clock eating offensive style that will limit opponents opportunities to score. New York’s offense is so bad though, they may allow more points because they give the opponent more opportunities with better field position. The reason the giants aren’t here, is because they have enough weapons to possibly become a decent unit. Washington stands no chance of that.
Strongest Special Teams: PHILADELPHIA – This was evaluated just using the LS, P, and K. Returners were not included, because no one has any idea, of how the new kickoff rules will impact the game. The NFL has even alluded to altering rules “in-season”, but Commissioner Roger Goodell nixed that notion about a week ago. As far as why Philly was picked, just look at the reports. Philly is strong in all three areas. The other three team cannot claim the same.
Weakest Special Teams: WASHINGTON – Both Washington and New York have a reliability issue with their kicking game. The difference is, that the giants punting game improved slightly last season, so they’re on an upward trend there.
Projected Winner: PHILADELPHIA – It’s not even close. If you disagree with my assessments, go through the reports and tell me what I screwed up.
Darkhorse Winner: DALLAS – Because of course they are. The NFC East is a division of haves and have nots. The Eagles and Cowboys dine on caviar. Meanwhile, the giants and Commanders watch and wait for each other to fall asleep, so that they can attempt to cannibalize their cellmate. (Note: Given how last week (Week 2) worked out between these two, this is now my FAVORITE line of the whole damned article.)
EAGLEMANIACAL.com 