Behind Enemy Lines: NFC North fan’s share their point of view
By Mike Payton
What is your outlook for your team in 2015?
Sep 8, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions fans cheer after a touchdown during the first quarter against the New York Giants at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Dunny, Lions: “In 2015 I see even more improvement. Our coaching staff has got that 1st year out-of-the-way, A winning year at that. Our defense was one of the top performing defensive units in the league, which has never really happened. We finally got a draft right as far as filling the holes we needed with best player available. Matthew Stafford now has multiple weapons around him with a line to give him time to throw. Even though the schedule this year is working against us I believe we have the team to take us to the playoffs again, and actually get a playoff victory.”
Siddiqui, Vikings: “Barring serious injuries, I expect the Vikings to go 10-6 or 11-5 and get into the playoffs as a wild card. Having Adrian Peterson back makes a huge difference. The addition of wide receiver Mike Wallace
will also be a nice boost to the offense. This is also Mike Zimmer’s second season as the head coach, so the players will be more familiar with his schemes.
The defense will continue to improve. Last season they were ranked 14th in the league after being ranked 31st the year before. They have plenty of young players who will continue to improve (Harrison Smith, Xavier Rhodes, Anthony Barr, Sharrif Floyd, Everson Griffen). Second year quarterback Teddy finished the season strong and I expect him to continue to grow this season. The schedule is tougher this year, but they have the talent and coaching to contend for a playoff spot.”
Coleman, Bears: “I like to stay positive, but this year is going to be a transition year for Chicago. New Coaching staff on both sides of the football, a lot of learning. But positive side : Chicago drafted a Big Time Receiver in Kevin White to replace B.Marshall, Pickup some key defensive free agents and our coaching staff is led by John Fox.”
Engman, Packers: “Green Bay has been a top team for as long as I can remember. I don’t see that changing this year. They were just two quarters away from playing in another Super Bowl last year. I think this year they definitely have what it takes to make it if a few key guys step up. Mike Daniels, B.J. Raji, and Sam Barrington just to name a few.
They have a very young defense and the only way is up. Offensively, they’re the most sound team in the NFL besides the tight end position. I don’t see many reasons why they couldn’t win a Super Bowl this year.”
Next: What team in your division worries you the most?