Behind Enemy Lines: An NFC North Round Table
By Mike Payton
Which player from an opposing team will have the biggest breakout year?
Oct 6, 2013; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers running back Eddie Lacy (27) runs with the ball as Detroit Lions safety Glover Quin (27) defends during the first quarter at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Payton, SLR:
As I mentioned in my NFC North power ranking series earlier this week, Eddie Lacy scares me the most. To me he is a run you over back that has more speed than a guy his size should. Look for Lacy to have a Pro Bowl caliber year in 2015.
Schmelzer, BGO:
Teddy Bridgewater sticks out as the breakout candidate for me. I was a big fan of his entering the league, and think that the Vikings did an incredible job of landing him with the last pick of the first round the way they did.
Having Adrian Peterson back will obviously help take the pressure off of Bridgewater, but having him there to dump off to in pressure situations will be key for his development as well.
Bridgewater is a talented player, and I fully expect him to make a solid year two jump.
Zinski, TVA:
The Packers always find receivers. I think Davante Adams is a guy who could emerge this year. I keep hearing good things about him.
Rivard, LA:
I hate to say it, but I think the Minnesota Vikings pose the greatest threat to overthrowing the Green Bay Packers as NFC North Division champs. I see three players on that team that could really raise a ruckus: Adrian Peterson, Teddy Bridgewater and wide receiver Charles Johnson. That trio will pull their weight this year and will combine to win some games for the Vikings. Look for all three of those guys to make some noise.
Next: What is your projected record in 2015?