NFL Teams & Predictions 2014: 10 Biggest Questions for Dallas Cowboys, Seattle Seahawks and More Heading into Season Schedule
The most popular sports league in the United States, the NFL, is set to begin in September, and predictions, fantasy leagues and divisional previews are already underway.
Latin Post.com decided to list the 10 biggest questions heading into this season:
1. How Good is Nick Foles?
Foles had a tremendous year last season for the Philadelphia Eagles. He threw 27 touchdowns to just 2 interceptions. His passer rating was a 119.2. Even though he played terrific, he only started 10 games last season, so many doubts still remain. This season he will be without DeSean Jackson, who is now with the Washington Redskins. We will see if Foles is for real or a one hit wonder.
2. Just How Bad Will This Cowboys Defense Be?
By now everyone knows the Cowboys defense is the worst in the NFL. Last season, they ranked dead last in the league and were the third-worst in NFL history. This season they will be playing without Sean Lee, DeMarcus Ware and Jason Hatcher. DeMarcus Lawrence will also miss a lot of time. This defensive unit has the potential to be the worst of all time.
3. Can the Carolina Panthers Wide Receivers Step Up?
Cam Newton didn't have a very good offseason. Future Hall of Famer Steve Smith is now with the Baltimore Ravens. To make matters worse, the Panthers will be without Ted Ginn Jr. and Brandon LaFell. Statistically speaking, the Panthers lost their top three wide receivers from last season. If Newton can overcome these odds, he may just have an MVP award in his near future.
4. How Much Will Johnny Manziel Play?
Everybody has an opinion on "Johnny Football." Some fans think the Cleveland Browns' new quarterback is great, some people think he's terrible, while others believe he's just average. Regardless, the ratings don't lie, people want to watch this man play football. Will Browns management feel the same way?
5. Can Robert Griffin III Return to Rookie Form?
Last season was very dramatic for the former Heisman trophy winner. Constant clashes with coach Mike Shanahan and injuries led to a 3-13 record. Even Griffin's Father got involved giving his opinion. Griffin is an excellent runner, but will the Washington Redskins be willing to use him on the ground? It will also be up to Griffin to make better passes going forward.
6. Is Josh McCown For Real?
McCown is in a similar situation as Foles. He played great last season, but we just haven't seen enough to make a conclusion. McCown has been in the NFL since 2002, but we've never really seen him do anything special until last season. Last year the 34-year-old quarterback threw 13 touchdowns and 1 interception with a 109 rating.
7. Can the Cincinnati Bengals Finally Win a Playoff Game?
In case anybody hasn't noticed, the longest NFL playoff win drought resides in Cincinnati. The Cincinnati Bengals haven't won a single playoff game since the 1990 season, when they defeated the Houston Oilers, who don't even exist anymore. The Bengals have made the postseason the last three consecutive seasons but have lost all three games.
8. How Good is This Patriots Defense?
The Patriots defense is usually what holds them back. The Patriots have not had a quality defense in a long time. This offseason, the team added cornerbacks Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner. Safety Patrick Chung is also rejoining the team. The Patriots defense needs to be much better this season than it has been in recent years.
9. Who is This Year's Cinderella Team?
Every year there's a team that goes from "worst to first." A team that shocks and surprises everyone. Last season the Kansas City Chiefs were that team. A lot of people believe the Redskins, Buccaneers, Rams (who all placed last in their division last year) have a chance at making the playoffs this season.
10. Can the Seattle Seahawks Repeat?
The NFL is the most difficult sports league to repeat. A hard salary cap restricts signing so many superstars and creates a lot balance. We've only seen one repeat NFL champion this entire century. The defending Super Bowl champion Seahawks play in the toughest division, and their road to the Super Bowl won't be easy. Still, this team can do it. They have the best defense in the league, and their offense is efficient enough to win games.
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