NFL 2016: How Each Team Can Still Win Super Bowl 51
We are two weeks into the 2016 NFL season, but anything can still happen. Here’s a look how each of the 32 teams can still win Super Bowl 51
The 2016 NFL season is currently kicking into high gear right now. With two weeks in the books for the year, the feeling that absolutely anything can still happen is unavoidable. Part of that is due to inconsistency, but it’s mostly just the nature of the league. Even those teams that are winless through Week 2 can still turn things around
So why not let the optimism become all-encompassing? Let’s paint the ultimate path to success over the final 15 games. We’re going to break down how each of the 32 teams in the NFL have their ideal year that ultimately leads them to winning Super Bowl LI.
Here’s how each of the 32 teams go on to win Super Bowl through the 2016 season:
Aug 19, 2016; San Diego, CA, USA; Arizona Cardinals running back David Johnson (31) runs the ball during the first quarter against the San Diego Chargers at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jake Roth-USA TODAY Sports
Arizona Cardinals
After their Week 1 defeat at the hands of the New England Patriots, there were doubts creeping into the minds of everyone that picked the Arizona Cardinals to win Super Bowl LI (which was a lot of people). After Week 2 where they shellacked a Tampa Bay Buccaneers team that looked solid in their respective opener, though, the seas have settled for those on board with the Cards for the 2016 season.
This might seem dismissive, but the recipe for the Cardinals is quite simple. They have to play with the fire that they played in during their matchup with Tampa for their remaining 14 games and the postseason.
Talent is far from the issue with Arizona. From top-to-bottom on both sides of the ball, you could argue that this is the most talent-laden roster in the league. Considering that first-round pick Robert Nkemdiche can’t even get on the field attests to the level of talent they have. However, this team came out flat against a good Patriots team in Week 1 and it cost them an opening defeat. If they play with passion and with Bruce Arians lighting a flame beneath them, there’s no doubt that the Cardinals could be bound for Houston.
Jul 28, 2016; Flowery Branch, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons head coach Dan Quinn on the field during training camp at the Atlanta Falcons Training Facility. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Atlanta Falcons
We go from a likely Super Bowl candidate in the Cardinals to a team that was projected near the bottom of the NFC South, much less the conference or NFL as a whole. The Atlanta Falcons didn’t exactly have the highest of hopes entering 2016. Despite being just 1-1 after their first two games, things at least look a bit more promising for the Falcons currently. A big part of that is the fact that Matt Ryan looks like an NFL quarterback once again.
Last season, it looked like Ryan experienced Matt Schaub-syndrome where everything just fell apart for him after a few bad moments and outings. Even blessed with Julio Jones in his receiving core and with Devonta Freeman running wild, Ryan cost his team more than he helped them. That hasn’t been the case thus far as Tevin Coleman has chipped in to help further stabilize the offense, as has new receiving core addition Mohamed Sanu. Ryan remaining consistent will of course be key to any Atlanta Super Bowl run.
However, the bigger concern is the defense. The Falcons have found themselves in two pseudo-shootouts in as many games. While they were able to take down the Oakland Raiders defense in Week 2 with an offensive explosion, Week 1 proved that won’t be an every-week occurrence. Dan Quinn has to get that side of the ball at least mildly sured up if the Falcons are going to make a run in the division or a Wild Card spot and then a trip to Houston.
Sep 1, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Breshad Perriman (18) can
Baltimore Ravens
I know that we’re supposed to be remaining optimistic here, but the Baltimore Ravens are by far the most suspect undefeated team after two weeks. With wins over the paltry Buffalo Bills and then a come-from-behind win over the league’s punching bag, the Cleveland Browns, no one is truly considering the Ravens Super Bowl contenders. But if you’re going to do such things, you need not look any further than Joe Flacco and Mike Wallace as to how it’s going to happen for this team.
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Saying Mike Wallace is the key to a team winning a Super Bowl is as crazy as it sounds. Despite great physical attributes, you’re talking about a player who has vastly underperformed since leaving the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, he offers this Ravens offense the exact weapon they need while Breshad Perriman is still coming along.
Before Flacco’s injury last season, the Ravens offense was missing their most key element after the loss of Torrey Smith. They didn’t have the speedster that Flacco could beat over the top with his tremendous arm strength. Wallace offers them that and has showed as much through two games. With that element back in the offense, they’re far more dangerous. They can be even more so if rookie running back Kenneth Dixon can get healthy and add that dimension to the offense.
Just as important for Baltimore, though, will be their defense playing consistently. Getting burnt by the Browns in the first half wasn’t great, but they played much better in the second half—albeit against an injured quarterback. Flacco’s effort could be all for naught if the Ravens defense can’t rise up to the task and become more consistent.
Nov 23, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; Buffalo Bills head coach Rex Ryan gives a hug to Buffalo Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor (5) before their game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports
Buffalo Bills
After two games, this might be one of the longest shots that we’ll see out of all 32 teams in the NFL. To put it bluntly, the Buffalo Bills have looked quite horrible through two games. To make matters worse, they don’t even seem to recognize where the problems lie with their team given that they fired offensive coordinator Greg Roman after their Week 2 loss to the New York Jets.
Without a doubt, Tyrod Taylor and the offense do need to improve going forward. Save for long passing plays against New York, the Bills offense hasn’t been on the level it was in 2016. However, it’s been the defense that’s been a problem. Joe Flacco and the Ravens beat them in a tight, hard-nosed game thanks to burning their secondary in Week 1. Then Ryan Fitzpatrick and Gang Green lit them up on Thursday Night Football in Week 2. That’s not a good look.
Essentially, the Bills have to turn everything around to contend for a Super Bowl. LeSean McCoy and Taylor actually have to be a force offensively while the defense starts to look like Rex Ryan knows what he’s doing as a defensive-minded head coach. If not, the Bills won’t just be missing out on a trip to Houston—they’ll be a bottom feeder in 2016.
Aug 11, 2016; Baltimore, MD, USA; Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton (1) and quarterback Joe Webb (14) celebrate after quarterback Derek Anderson (3) (not pictured) touchdown pass in first quarter against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Carolina Panthers
Before running into Von Miller and the Denver Broncos defense in the Super Bowl last season, there wasn’t a team in football better than the Carolina Panthers. They lost just one game in the regular season and ran through the NFC in the postseason. Now they’re even better offensively in 2016 and it’s already showing, even if they’re 1-1 after losing to the Broncos in Week 1 in a rematch of last year’s Big Game.
Kelvin Benjamin’s return to this offense can’t be understated. Cam Newton won an MVP last season with Carolina with Ted Ginn as his No. 1 receiver. Ted. Ginn. He deserves another complimentary MVP just for that. So now he has Benjamin joining Ginn and Greg Olsen and this offense is absolutely humming. Moreover, the offensive line even looks a bit better, making even Fozzy Whittaker look solid in their big Week 2 win.
However, what the Panthers need to sure-up moving forward to make another Super Bowl run a reality will be on defense. With the departure of Josh Norman, Carolina is relying on young defensive backs on the corners to really shoulder the load, specifically James Bradberry. If the rookie and Bene Benwikere are able to hold it down on the outside, the Panthers are going to be dicing it up atop the NFC when it’s all said and done.
Jun 14, 2016; Lake Forest, IL, USA; Chicago Bears inside linebacker Danny Trevathan (59) warms up during mini-camp at Halas Hall. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
Chicago Bears
Despite not having a ton of optimism about the Chicago Bears entering the 2016 season, there were still some signs of hope. Jeremy Langford at least showed flashes last season. Meanwhile, Jay Cutler has always shown flashes as well. However, the biggest hope for improvements came from adding the likes of Danny Trevathan on the defense. After only two games, though, things look quite bleak for the Bears.
Injuries have ravaged the roster, most recently taking out Lamarr Houston going out with an ACL tear for the season and Cutler for several weeks with a thumb injury. Oh yeah, Trevathan is also out too. Needless to say, things are looking quite dire in Chicago. In the interest of optimism, though, how then do they now try and go on to compete for a Super Bowl.
Frankly, it’s going to take Langford (or Ka’Deem Carey or Jordan Howard) coming out and just dominating while Cutler’s out. Then it will take Cutler doing something he’s rarely done before once he returns: being consistent as a leader and performer. With key defensive performers already being out for a long time, it’s going to be on the offense from here on out to control the Bears’ destiny.
Aug 28, 2016; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton (14) throws the ball in the first quarter against the Jacksonville Jaguars at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports
Cincinnati Bengals
After losing to the Pittsburgh Steelers in Week 2, everyone seemed to react as if the sky is falling around the Cincinnati Bengals. News flash for everyone using that type of verbiage around this team: the Steelers are very damn good at football and losing to them is something most teams in the NFL will do. Thus, there shouldn’t be any real reason to panic when it comes to the Bengals.
Andy Dalton may not be the player that he was before getting hurt last season, but that doesn’t mean this offense still isn’t dangerous. There may be one or two defensive backs in the league that can cover AJ Green and Dalton has been reliable at minimum every time he takes the field. On top of that, the defense has the ability to both rush the passer and stop the run. Subsequently, they are solid on both sides of the ball.
What will push them over the edge to being Super Bowl contenders, though, will be the return of Tyler Eifert. He’s a tremendous weapon when healthy, but his return has been slow-coming. If he can come back and find a rhythm, though, the Cincinnati offense can reach new heights. With what they’re already capable of, that could be a deciding factor.
Aug 26, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon (12) celebrates with quarterback Robert Griffin III (10) after he scored a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Cleveland Browns
No, I’m not going to say that every important player on all 31 other teams gets injured for the Cleveland Browns to win Super Bowl LI. That’s cheating. However, that I have to say that should be a good indication of how little hope there is even after just two weeks for the Browns at even making the playoffs, much less making a run for the Lombardi Trophy.
However, the name of this exercise is finding a way for each team, so that’s what we’re going to do. And the way to Houston for the Super Bowl for Cleveland isn’t Robert Griffin III. It isn’t Corey Coleman being a monster or the defense suddenly finding eight-or-nine hidden gems to carry them on that side of the ball. Hell, it’s not even Josh McCown. Simply, they need Cody Kessler to be the shiniest diamond-in-the-rough in the history of rookie quarterbacks.
Yes, this is highly unlikely to happen. Kessler didn’t show enough at USC to make anyone think that he’s the next Dan Marino or John Elway. He didn’t even look like the next Matt Leinart. However, the Browns have to rely on the unknown commodity if they were to want to make it to Super Bowl LI. It would have to be Kessler coming in and shocking the world. Other than that, it just doesn’t seem plausible any other way.
Aug 19, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott (4) prepares to face the Miami Dolphins at AT&T Stadium. The Cowboys defeat the Dolphins 41-14. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Dallas Cowboys
Once Tony Romo succumbed to a back injury in the preseason, people already began writing off the Dallas Cowboys. Not only would they be starting fourth-round rookie Dak Prescott with Romo out, but he would have to be the signal-caller for an offense expected to carry the team. After all, the Cowboys were thought to be operating with a defense that was mediocre at their best and missing several key pieces to start the year.
After a 1-1 start, though, the Cowboys have a much more favorable outlook than before. Prescott looks like he may be the real deal after taking a big step forward from Week 1 to 2. Moreover, their defense came up huge with a bend-don’t-break approach in their Week 2 win against the Washington Redskins. That came after holding an explosive Giants offense to only 20 points and losing by just a single point (and thanks to last-second miscues).
We know this offense is going to be fine with Prescott or Romo, especially if rookie running back Ezekiel Elliott gets rolling. Thus, the key for this Cowboys team is that defense continuing to step up. There’s not enough talent at really any level to realistically believe they can be a top-notch defense. However, they can be adequate and that’ll be enough if the offense really hits its stride. Especially as they get bodies back throughout the year, the defense continuing to play like they have in the first two weeks will be the most vital ingredient in a Super Bowl recipe for Dallas.
Aug 27, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller (58) celebrates after a sack in the first quarter against the Los Angeles Rams at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Denver Broncos
What can you say about the Denver Broncos that hasn’t been covered from every angle. Trevor Siemian hasn’t lit the world on fire through two starts. However, this team isn’t constructed to have Trevor Siemian being the deciding factor in games. He’s a game-manager in a zone-based offense that thrives off of C.J. Anderson and simple decision making. All he has to do is remain constant and the defense will do the rest.
That defense looks as fierce as ever before for the Broncos in 2016. Even with the loss of a key player from 2015 in Malik Jackson, Von Miller and company can still terrorize opposing offenses at will. That’s the bread-and-butter for Denver, just like they always thought it would be. However, that brings us back to Siemian and Anderson, whose consistency is going to be the deciding factor regarding a chance at a Super Bowl this year.
While they aren’t going to be asked to win them many games in 2016 for Denver, they can’t lose them any. Siemian can’t be throwing the ball away and Anderson has to hold onto the rock. If that’s something they can do day-in and day-out at the office, the Broncos defense proved last year that it’s capable of winning a Super Bowl near single-handedly.
Sep 1, 2016; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Golden Tate (15) points to a fan before the game against the Buffalo Bills at Ford Field. Lions win 31-0. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
Detroit Lions
A team that perhaps not enough people are talking about through the first two weeks of the season are the Detroit Lions. Granted, they are coming off of a loss to the Tennessee Titans in Week 2. Therefore, you could say that their Week 1 showing against the Indianapolis Colts was a bit of fool’s gold. I tend to lean the other way, though. Week 2 was a game where penalties got away from both teams and completely ravaged any kind of game-flow.
When that’s not happening, though, the Lions are quite dangerous on both sides of the ball. Jim Bob Cooter is firmly entrenched in the offense and they look mighty dangerous every time that Matthew Stafford has the ball. So much so that I don’t even consider that as a key to their Super Bowl contention because it feels like a given when there aren’t 29 penalties being called in a single game. The X-Factor, though, will be the defense.
Darius Slay and company on that side of the ball have talent to make plays both in the trenches and in the secondary. However, leaders like Slay and Ziggy Ansah have to come together and make sure this team plays as a cohesive unit for 60 minutes every time out. That goes on head coach Jim Caldwell too, who has to do what he can to ensure that happens and that his team remains discipline. If the defense is able to do that, though, I’m willing to call the Lions a legit dark-horse for Super Bowl LI.
January 16, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) throws a pass against Arizona Cardinals during the first half in a NFC Divisional round playoff game at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Green Bay Packers
Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers got a tough lesson last season in just how valuable Jordy Nelson is to their offense. Through two games, though, they are still feeling the effects of that lesson. Even with a score in his last outing, Nelson is clearly not back to his former level of play and physical ability. Thus, the Packers are still asking a remarkably large amount from their quarterback on a week-to-week basis.
Of course, if any quarterback is capable of handling that type of pressure, you’d have to agree that Rodgers is one of the few that can. However, they have far too much talent around him offensively and on defense to find themselves in that position. Subsequently, much of the onus in Green Bay when it come to realizing their potential as a Super Bowl contender hinges on Mike McCarthy on the sidelines.
McCarthy’s play-calling and game-planning has been suspect to say the least. Defensively, there are seemingly costly lapses or holes every single week. Offensively, as stated, it’s too much reliance on Rodgers to be god-like under-center. Either he has to go against his word and give up calling the plays once again or he has to get better at doing it himself. This team is talented enough to be competing with the league’s best, but it’s not happening looking like this.
Aug 28, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) makes the call at the line during the first half of an NFL football game against the Arizona Cardinals at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Houston Texans
There’s no doubts about the fact that the Houston Texans were aggressive this offseason in trying to build a contender. They addressed all of their glaring holes on offense while keeping their defense stout. Subsequently, Houston came into the season with high hopes. Even still, there were doubters about how it would all ultimately piece together. As they sit at 2-0 with a pair of impressive victories, it seems as if it’s working quite well.
Houston would obviously love to play in the Super Bowl on their home turf and their defense will be the ones leading the way. In case you hadn’t heard, this J.J. Watt fellow is pretty damn good at the game of football. However, the fact that Jadeveon Clowney is finally coming into his own along with the rest of an impressive unit only makes the Texans defense more dangerous. What will be integral for their Super Bowl aspirations, though, is Brock Osweiler and their offense.
Osweiler hasn’t been great in his first two starts with Houston, but he’s been better-than-passable still. The offense has opened up a great deal with Lamar Miller and rookie receiver Will Fuller in the fold as well. However, Osweiler needs to take just one step above to another level for this offense to be what it needs to if a Super Bowl win at home is going to happen. It’s not out of the question at all, but it’s the most direct path to that ending.
Aug 27, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Andrew Luck (12) takes a snap under center against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Indianapolis Colts
Much like with another team we’ll soon be discussing, the Indianapolis Colts aren’t going to be getting better defensively to a level where it’s relevant. Even when Vontae Davis comes back, there are still holes at every level that any competent offense can exploit. What that ultimately means for the Colts is that Andrew Luck is going to be asked to do it all. Of course, that’s been their gameplan for several seasons now.
Even after being stifled (unsurprisingly) by the Broncos defense in Week 2, Luck looks back to his normal self after a horrendous and injury-shortened 2015. He’s essentially asked to do it all with an often-porous offensive line and no real semblance of a running game. However, he’s more than talented enough to do that when he’s at his best.
Whether or not he’s able to reach even another level is what will determine the level of Indy’s success, though. He’s capable of being great. But it takes more than great for a quarterback to essentially single-handedly take his team to the promised land. Luck simply needs to be other worldly to make it work. That may seem dire, but it’s what’s necessary.
Aug 20, 2016; Jacksonville, FL, USA; Jacksonville Jaguars outside linebacker Telvin Smith (50) and cornerback Jalen Ramsey (20) celebrate during the first quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Logan Bowles-USA TODAY Sports
Jacksonville Jaguars
The buzz was abundant regarding the Jacksonville Jaguars entering the 2016 season. Despite another sub-.500 season in 2015, the Jags made drastic improvements on defense this offseason. With young talent seemingly ready to blossom offensive while also adding Chris Ivory, Jacksonville had all the signs of a breakout candidate. Through two weeks, though, I’m not sure anyone still knows what to make of this team.
Jacksonville sits at 0-2, but each loss came in a severely different scenario. In Week 1, Blake Bortles and company hung tough with a potential NFC favorite in the Packers. How did they follow that up? By getting hit in the mouth by the San Diego Chargers with little-to-no resistance. Despite that, you know what you’re getting from Bortles and the offense. They have tremendous talent and are going to sling the pigskin all over the field. However, the key is still that defense.
Talent isn’t the question here. However, experience and cohesion are indeed tremendous question marks for the Jaguars. Can this unit come together as they build a rapport with one another throughout the year? If they are able to do so, which isn’t out of the question, the offense can get hot enough to ultimately carry them on a magical run.
Sep 13, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; Kansas City Chiefs running back Jamaal Charles (25) during a game against the Houston Texans at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Kansas City Chiefs
What the Kansas City Chiefs were able to do at the end of last season was nothing short of remarkable. After an abysmal start to 2015, they finished on a tear as they won their final 10 games of the season. They then went on to win a playoff game before ultimately falling by just a touchdown to the New England Patriots in the next round. However, there are questions abound regarding this team in 2016.
Many people will bring up the impending return of Jamaal Charles as a key factor in the Chiefs having success in 2016. While having that type of weapon would be huge in trying to get to a Super Bowl, it’s not the key right now. Spencer Ware and Charcandrick West have been more than adequate at leading the backfield in Charles’ absence. With Alex Smith still game-managing like a pro, the offense is fine.
However, it’s the defense of the Chiefs that leaves the biggest questions. They’re a fine unit as is with the ability to put together stops. But to be Super Bowl contenders, they need Justin Houston to return and be back at 100 percent. Out of all 32 teams, this may be the most difficult to calibrate because the details of Houston’s return are so murky still. However, his return to anchor this front-seven in Kansas City with any kind of effectiveness would take them to that upper-tier in the NFL.
Sep 1, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Los Angeles Rams quarterback Jared Goff (16) throws a pass against the Minnesota Vikings during a NFL game at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Los Angeles Rams
Remember how the Ravens were the most dubious 2-0 team in the NFL? The Los Angeles Rams take that dishonor for the crop of 1-1 teams after two weeks. They’ve yet to score a touchdown in the 2016 season, but somehow found a way to ride their defense to a win against a shaky-looking Seattle Seahawks team in Week 2. Obviously, the defense remains the strength of this Rams team. But that defense won’t matter in terms of any possible Super Bowl run if the offense doesn’t get any better.
Frankly, the first key to the Rams turning this season in a positive direction is get Case Keenum out of the starting quarterback slot on the depth chart. They know what the offense looks like with Keenum and it isn’t pretty. LA definitely isn’t aided by their offensive line as that unit has been horrendous as well. However, it all hinges on quarterback play to help relieve pressure off that line and off of Todd Gurley. Thus, embracing the unknown is the best bet for the Rams.
Rookie and No. 1 overall pick from 2016 in Jared Goff wasn’t impressive in the preseason. In fact, it feels safe to say he’s probably not ready. However, riding 2016 out with Keenum does the Rams as a whole and Goff no favors at all. They have their highest ceiling offensively with Goff at the helm. Moreover, they’re already at the floor with Keenum with that offense, so it truly can’t be any worse. If there’s any glimmer of hope for the Rams, it begins and ends with giving the rookie his shot.
Aug 19, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Miami Dolphins defensive end Mario Williams (94) and defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh (93) during the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. The Cowboys defeat the Dolphins 41-14. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Miami Dolphins
Even with Adam Gase coming in as the new, shiny head coach, there were still major question marks surrounding the Miami Dolphins entering the 2016 season. One such question has been answered with emphatically positive results. The defense in Miami has been absolutely fantastic through two weeks and could be one of the most underrated units on that side of the ball in the league.
However, the biggest question entering the season still remains. In essence, Ryan Tannehill still isn’t clicking under Gase in this offense. After what Gase did in Chicago with the Bears offense, there was hope that he could be a miracle-worker and be the one to get Tannehill over the hump. Through two weeks, that certainly hasn’t happened just yet. Yes, injuries haven’t been their friend, but that doesn’t change the fact that Tannehill hasn’t been playing at a star-level just yet.
Tannehill answering the call of his new head coach is exactly what it will take for the Dolphins to be in the Super Bowl conversation. They’re in an absolutely loaded AFC, so just having a great defense and average offense isn’t going to get the job done. Gase’s offense needs to start making magic happen. If not, they’ll fall short of the Big Game.
Dec 27, 2015; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings linebacker Anthony Barr (55) against the New York Giants at TCF Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Giants 49-17. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
Minnesota Vikings
Teddy Bridgewater losing his 2016 season before it ever began due to a knee injury certainly raised questions about the Minnesota Vikings as potential favorites out of the NFC. Through two games without their starting quarterback, though, those concerns seem dramatically less, well, concerning.
Clearly the performance of the Vikings defense stands out. Even with Bridgewater in the fold, that was going to be the strength of this team and it’s clear as to why. They were a fierce and stingy unit last year, but have improved even upon that coming into 2016. What’s more, though, is that Sam Bradford looked arguably the best he ever has in his first start with the Vikings in Week 2. He was moving the ball beautifully with the help of Stefon Diggs and even without Adrian Peterson being effective and then even being on the field.
Therein lies the key for the Vikings, though. Bradford hasn’t been the picture of consistency or health for his career. And while he doesn’t need to play the game of his life weekly thanks to the defense, he can’t cost his team games. Even if Peterson misses extensive time, this defense is good enough to carry Minnesota if Bradford simply burns clock and leads some quality drives on a weekly basis. Despite all odds, the Vikes are still in the thick of it and have to be considered serious Super Bowl contenders through two weeks.
Aug 11, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) during pregame warmups prior to a game against the New Orleans Saints at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
New England Patriots
Rob Gronkowski needs to get healthy for the New England Patriots to win a Super Bowl. Anyone with loose knowledge of the NFL could tell you as much. That’s a very simple assessment of his injury to start the season. But it’s also worth noting that the Pats have already accomplished what many pundits felt was necessary for them to compete for another Super Bowl. Through their first two games without Tom Brady, they’re sitting at 2-0. As many people said they just needed to go 2-2 through the four-game suspension to keep them truly alive, the job’s already been done.
We know what this offense is going to look like when Brady returns and when Gronk gets healthy. They’re the Energizer Bunny of offenses in the NFL and there are no signs of them stopping going, and going, and going, etc. So saying anything about the offense being key would be an exercise in futility. I’d bet my house that the offense won’t be an issue.
In the same light, I’d also say that the defense isn’t going to miss a beat either. Bill Belichick has this unit playing shutdown defense on a consistent basis. They truly can stop anyone, as they proved against the Cardinals in Week 1 with a brilliant gameplan.
Essentially, the key for the Patriots winning Super Bowl LI is as simple as you’ll ever see. They need to keep being the New England Patriots. If they do that, there’s no reason to believe they won’t be there.
Aug 26, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Drew Brees (9) against the Pittsburgh Steelers before a preseason game at Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
New Orleans Saints
Right out of the gate, it has to be said that the New Orleans Saints defense is horrendous. It would be great to say that the key for them is to get their defense playing at least at a league-average level. However, I truly don’t think that’s plausible. They don’t have the talent or the schemes to make that happen (but mostly the talent). Thus, that leaves us with Drew Brees and the offense.
To be fair, there are worse things in the NFL to rely on than Brees leading an explosive offense. That’s been pretty much like breathing for him ever since his arrival in New Orleans. However, they might have to be even better than before to make that happen. With his bevy of young receivers around him, that seems possible in that regard. But what could be the key for the Saints offense being good enough to carry them to a Super Bowl is their running game.
Mark Ingram had arguably his best pro season in 2015 as he was productive in every facet of the offense. He gashed opposing defenses on the ground and consistently remained a threat in the passing attack. However, he’s tailed off dramatically through the first two weeks of the 2016 season and it’s not gone unnoticed. For this Saints team that needs their offense to be near-perfect for them to get to Houston in February, Ingram is going to have to do his part much better than he has through two weeks.
Aug 27, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants defensive end Olivier Vernon (54) and New York Giants defensive back Janoris Jenkins (20) tackle New York Jets running back Lache Seastrunk (30) in the 2nd half at MetLife Stadium. New York Giants defeat the New York Jets 21-20. Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports
New York Giants
With all of the money that the New York Giants put into improving their defense this offseason, you’d hope that they would be much better. And while that was expected coming into 2016, no one could have foreseen the drastic leap forward that they’ve taken. Through two games, though, you’d have to consider the Giants runaway favorites in the NFC East and a viable threat to make it to the Super Bowl.
You know what you’re getting with this offense when it comes to Eli Manning and Odell Beckham Jr. Even when things fell poorly for them last season, the Giants offense was still lethal and capable of putting up big numbers. However, that unit has gotten even better with the additions of rookie Sterling Shepard and a returning Victor Cruz. Now the offense in New York can truly pick apart 95 percent of the defenses in the NFL.
The key remains the defense of the Giants, though. Without question, they’ve been wholly impressive with new addition Olivier Vernon and the front-seven showing vast improvements. What’s going to be pivotal is that this team stays healthy and consistent on that side of the ball. Depth isn’t wholly the strength of the defense, so any injury or poor play could derail their efforts. If they keep up the effort they’ve put up through Week 2, though, they’ll be in contention.
Aug 27, 2016; East Rutherford, NJ, USA;New York Jets quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick (14) throws the ball in the 1st half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: William Hauser-USA TODAY Sports
New York Jets
After everyone freaked out about the New York Jets offense following a one-point loss to the Bengals in Week 1, they looked like world-beaters on Thursday Night Football in Week 2. Ryan Fitzpatrick, Matt Forte, Eric Decker, Brandon Marshall, and company are going to be just fine. The same can be said of the dynamite front-four that the Jets can boast. That unit led by Sheldon Richardson and Muhammed Wilkerson can wreak havoc on any offensive line in the NFL.
However, the secondary of the Jets has left something to be desired and all eyes are on Darrelle Revis. The vaunted Revis Island has become more of a tourist destination through two weeks, with the veteran cornerback getting burned consistently in both outings. However, the key isn’t Revis magically getting younger and regaining physical traits that are likely forever gone. Instead, it’s on Todd Bowles and the rest of the secondary.
For this New York team and Gang Green to find their way to Super Bowl LI, they’re going to have to find a way to come together. Whether that means moving Revis to safety, designing coverage schemes to compensate for his weaknesses or whatever else, the Jets must find a way to remedy the fact that they’re susceptible to getting torched in a big way by opposing passing attacks. If they do that, though, this team is talented enough to be in the mix come February.
Aug 27, 2016; Oakland, CA, USA; Oakland Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) passes against the Tennessee Titans during the first half at Oakland-Alameda Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Oakland Raiders
Derek Carr and the Oakland Raiders offense have been everything that they were advertised to be coming into 2016. Carr has looked the part of a franchise quarterback. Meanwhile, his complement of weapons seems to only be growing with young running backs behind Latavius Murray joining the backfield. Essentially, the offense isn’t going to be what kills this Raiders’ chances at winning Super Bowl 51.
That dubious distinction through two weeks in the season belongs to the defense in Oakland. They’ve been absolutely torched in both their Week 1 win and subsequent Week 2 defeat. Their secondary is a complete mess with prized signings Sean Smith and Reggie Nelson looking less than stellar in their new roles. However, there’s still hope given the personnel changes that this unit incurred in the offseason.
Whenever you revamp a secondary like this in addition to several other aspects of the defense, you have to expect a learning curve when it comes to the regular season. Thus, the Raiders’ chances of making it to Houston rest on the unit coming together and improving. Granted, that improvement will need to be drastic. However, the talent is in place to where you could wholly see it happening for them.
Aug 11, 2016; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Carson Wentz (11) calls a play at the line against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at Lincoln Financial Field. The Philadelphia Eagles won 17-9. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Philadelphia Eagles
For the most part, saying that the Philadelphia Eagles winning Super Bowl LI was at all possible would have seemed absolutely laughable. Carson Wentz came into the season as a rookie who looked mediocre-at-best in the preseason. Moreover, the Eagles were working with what appeared to be a lacking array of weapons around the rookie. Subsequently, it all seemed a bit far-fetched to consider a run for the Lombardi Trophy.
Yet the Eagles are 2-0 and Wentz looks like an absolute stud through those two victories. Sure, they’ve come against two paltry defenses in the Browns and Bears. However, that doesn’t change the fact that Philadelphia has been convincing on both sides of the ball to this point. Their defense was always going to be their strength. And while it’s shown cracks at moments, that’s largely been the case. So with Wentz leading an effective offense, this Eagles team has a clear path to success.
The remaining 15 weeks of the season, though, rest on the rookie quarterback’s shoulders, though. If he begins to struggle as the level of competition increases, this Eagles team will fall back to mediocrity or somewhere near it. The same can be said if Wentz continues to get lit up with big hits and ultimately has to miss time with injuries. If they can avoid that, though, this Philadelphia team could truly defy all odds and make an impressive run through the postseason.
Jul 29, 2016; Latrobe, PA, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Markus Wheaton (11) participates in drills during training camp at Saint Vincent College. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Pittsburgh Steelers
People loved the Pittsburgh Steelers heading into the 2016 NFL season and rightfully so. They’re offense was devastating no matter who they were up against last season and hasn’t missed a beat thus far. Even without Le’Veon Bell through two games, Ben Roethlisberger has been lights-out thus far. Antonio Brown was even severely limited in Week 2 and Big Ben still found a way to get the job done on that side of the ball. Their hopes for a Super Bowl, though, rest on both sides of the ball.
Staying with that offense, there’s no worries there considering what we’ve seen. Roethlisberger is truly magnificent at what he does. He can beat you with any array of weapons, as proved with Brown being a non-factor in a Week 2 win. Moreover, the offensive line is humming, leading to success in the rushing attack. With Le’Veon Bell returning after just one more game, that’s an added dimension to both the run and pass that should make them even more dangerous
As for the defense, they could be the game-changer for the Steelers. While they were just above-average in 2015, they have the chance to be much better. This is a group that’s largely filled with young players that could be due to take the leap in 2016. Thus far, it looks like they’ve done so to a degree. For them to get to a Super Bowl-winning level, though, that leap forward will have to be even bigger over the remaining 15 games of the season.
Aug 28, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; San Diego Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers (17) throws the ball against the Minnesota Vikings in the second quarter at U.S. Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
San Diego Chargers
After being ransacked by injuries in 2015, the San Diego Chargers are already experiencing the same fate this season. With wideout Keenan Allen and running back Danny Woodhead both out for the season with torn ACLs, that’s two pivotal offensive weapons already on the shelf. Even still, the Chargers sit at 2-0. And it’s been the ineffable Philip Rivers guiding the way. If they have a shot at a Super Bowl, Rivers is going to have to be the catalyst.
Rivers is perpetually underrated as far as what he’s capable of in this San Diego offense goes. His ability to make plays is uncanny and right up there with the best signal-callers in the league. He proved that in Week 2 when he had a paltry receiving core with him and still managed to light up a seemingly improved Jaguars defense. It’s asking a great deal, but Rivers has to be at that MVP-caliber level all season for the Chargers to stay on the winning path both in the immediate future and on into February. The emergence of second-year running back Melvin Gordon should certainly aid him in that plight.
Perhaps the biggest key, though, is that they have to find an antidote to the injury bug and have to find it now. Their offensive line needs to remain healthy to keep Rivers upright and healthy himself. Moreover, their defense needs to stay at full-strength as they’ve been clicking, but could be decimated by even one injury at any key position. Saying that a team needs to stay healthy to win is somewhat of a cop-out, but it’s wholly relevant when it comes to this team and their recent history.
Aug 20, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; San Francisco 49ers tight end Vance McDonald (89) congratulates running back Carlos Hyde (28) after his touchdown in the second quarter against the Denver Broncos at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
San Francisco 49ers
This…this is difficult to try and formulate. Quite frankly, things are barren when it comes to the San Francisco 49ers in the 2016 NFL season. Their two quarterbacks are Blaine Gabbert and the shell of Colin Kaepernick. Their offensive line is adequate on its best day and their defense is full of players with upside and Navarro Bowman, essentially. While not all hope is lost, that doesn’t appear to leave any avenue that leads to the Super Bowl. Even at 1-1, they’re not inspiring much hope in the Bay Area.
However, the pivotal factor for the 49ers’ 2016 season is on the sideline in Chip Kelly. Popular opinion these days after he basically threw the entire Eagles roster into a dumpster, doused it in gasoline, and then tossed in a lit match is that Kelly is a hack when it comes to his NFL coaching abilities (and GM abilities as well). However, there is still reason to believe that he’s a fantastic offensive mind. Thus, the key for the 49ers lies in their offense.
Sure, Gabbert or Kaepernick don’t have anyone to throw to, really. But if Kelly can rejuvenate Kaepernick on the field and have him being a dual-threat monster, that’s the type of thing the coach thrives on. That will allow him to better use his most talented weapon in Carlos Hyde and open up the offense for the less-than-inspiring receiving core. It’s a near impossible outcome for San Francisco, but any chance of a Super Bowl lies somewhere in the Chip Kelly bag of tricks.
Aug 25, 2016; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson (3) throws a pass during the second quarter in a preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys at CenturyLink Field. The Seahawks won 27-17. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports
Seattle Seahawks
If you ask just about anyone with loose knowledge of the NFL recently, they’ll tell you that the Seattle Seahawks are in contention to win the Super Bowl in 2016. That’s simply factual information at this point. They’re one of the most talented teams in the league who looked like world-beaters at the end of last season. However, that doesn’t mean they don’t need several things to go smoothly for them this season.
Thus far, nothing at all has gone smoothly for the Seahawks.
The heart and soul of the Seattle offense in quarterback Russell Wilson is already dealing with an injury, the last thing that they can afford. While the defense has remained stingy as ever and come out of the gate playing well, their lack of offense has them at 1-1 with an embarrassing loss to the Rams in Week 2 to their discredit.
However, we know that defense is going to be there in the end. What really matters for the Seahawks hitting their stride in 2016 is their offensive line. Wilson’s ability to create space and time for himself is arguably his greatest asset. However, that’s not going to matter if he’s getting blown up on a weekly basis. Whether it’s rookie Germain Ifedi stepping in or simply the current starting O-line improving, Seattle’s Super Bowl hopes rest on that unit.
Aug 26, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) points and calls a play against the Cleveland Browns during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
One team gaining a lot of buzz coming into 2016 is the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. After a tremendous showing as a rookie where he seemingly improved in every game, there are high, high hopes for Jameis Winston at quarterback. He met those hopes and expectations with open arms with a fantastic season-opener. However, he followed that up by getting ravaged by the Cardinals defense in Week 2, throwing four interceptions.
No one with eyes and a brain is doubting the talent of Winston at this point. However, he signal-caller in Tampa Bay has to become more consistent in regards to both his accuracy and decision-making. Those are two areas where the Buccaneers struggled throughout his rookie season. However, if his complement of weapons can stay healthy as he progresses in his development, though, this offense could be absolutely lethal. And clearly, that’s step one to getting to the Super Bowl.
The defense was a concern last season, but they’re a young group with the potential to gel at any time. That happening is the biggest factor in any playoff run for the Bucs in 2016. Winston can put all the points in the world on the board, but it’s not going to matter if the defense doesn’t improve. They’ve allowed 64 points through two games. While that came against two quality offenses, that’s not going to fly if they have thoughts of the Lombardi Trophy still lingering.
Aug 13, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Titans quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) looks to pass against the San Diego Chargers during the first half at Nissan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports
Tennessee Titans
We’ve got ourselves another long-shot here. The Tennessee Titans were nothing to wholly write home about in Marcus Mariota’s rookie season, save for a few flashes from the electric quarterback. However, the Titans have undergone major personnel changes and seemingly for the better. Thus, there’s a scenario where they take a tremendous leap forward. However, we haven’t totally seen that through Week 2
There’s no doubt that this group around Mariota is far more dangerous than it was last year. From having DeMarco Murray and rookie Derrick Henry in the backfield to seemingly finding a rookie stud in Tajae Sharpe, the pieces fit so much better around the dual-threat quarterback. However, Mariota has yet to fully take a leap in his sophomore season. Sure, he led the way to an ugly win in Week 2 to move to 1-1. But that also came in a game where the Titans defense was aided by penalties that mucked up the matchup majorly.
However, the biggest key to both Mariota making that leap this season is head coach Mike Mularkey. There are more than a few detractors of the coach and it’s not hard to see why. He’s gimmicky with his play-calling far too often. Thus, he limits the ceiling of this offense. As this team’s hope in 2016 and of making a shocking Super Bowl LI run lie with this offense, Mularkey has to himself get better for his team to follow suit.
Aug 26, 2016; Landover, MD, USA; Washington Redskins defensive back Josh Norman (24) celebrates after a tackle against the Buffalo Bills during the first half at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports
Washington Redskins
Most people seemed somewhat dubious of the Washington Redskins entering 2016. After they won the NFC East last season, the questions about franchise-tagged Kirk Cousins remained. Following the first two games of the season and two subsequent losses, those questions still emphatically remain.
At 0-2, obviously the biggest factor in Washington turning it around is going to be Cousins and the offense. A supposedly improved defense hasn’t shown up consistently this year, but that unit looks more impressive if Cousins and the offense are able to put consistently big numbers on the scoreboard. Cousins has to re-take command of his offense, find his mark more consistently with throws, and not make costly mistakes at key junctures of games.
Just as important as Cousins is the necessity of getting something from the run game. If the Redskins are to make a run at a Super Bowl this season, they have to find something in that aspect of their offense. Not only would Matt Jones or the currently injured rookie Keith Marshall alleviate pressure on Cousins, but would also make the unit far more dynamic as a whole. Frankly, the Redskins are unlikely to reach the NFL’s pinnacle. But any road that leads there starts with this offense looking more like the 2015 version.