AFC East 2010 Preview
by Scott Rickenbach
Buffalo - The Bills offense was pathetic last season. Now, with Buddy Nix at General Manager and Chan Gailey at Head Coach, we certainly don't see things as greatly improved. The Quarterback position continues to be a work in progress. That said, a run heavy attack is unlikely to reignite this sluggish offense. Talk of Wildcat elements being in the offense this season also isn't overly impressive. We all saw what happened with the Dolphins offense starting to slowdown last season as defenses adjusted. Also, Buffalo's offensive line is a concern and that won't help the attack. As for the defense, a number of changes means an adjustment period early in the season. Another tough season in upstate New York.
Miami - Big acquisition was Brandon Marshall at wide receiver. That certainly should help the Dolphins offense take a step back in the right direction. Also, the defense made a movement toward more speed via youth. Though that could mean growing pains early in the season, the changes should eventually pay off. Picking up linebacker Karlos Dansby is also a key for this defense entering the 2010 season. With all the changes on defense and with a tough schedule early on in the season, look for the Dolphins to struggle early but then get stronger as the season goes on. The youth movement on defense should pay off rather quickly.
New England - The Patriots looked very old against the Ravens in their post-season exit last year. That's not a good sign of things to come for New England. Certainly they are still likely to contend for the AFC East but the Jets and Dolphins will be threats as well. Wes Welker's injury situation is concerning for the Pats offense. As for the defense, the changes for this season are significant and we expect the Patriots to have some struggles on that side of the ball. Last season, they simply did not generate a strong pass rush and then their inability to stop the run was exposed by Baltimore in the post-season. We are not sure that the players that the Patriots brought in are going to be the right fit. In other words, the Pats could continue to fall back from the lofty perch they had attained in recent seasons.
New York Jets - The Jets come into this season with big expectations. However, though they impressed in the post-season last year, let's not forget that they "snuck" into the playoffs. Everything came together just right for the Jets to get in. Now, with changes at running back for the Jets one has to wonder just how well the offense will perform this season. Even with the addition of wide receiver Santonio Holmes, one has to wonder how the offense will pan out with Sanchez at QB. Keep in mind, he had 20 int's against 12 td's last season. In other words, can he really lead this offense if the Jets lose some punch on offense as a result of Thomas Jones and Leon Washington having both departed at the running back spot. We still like the Jets but they could struggle more than many are expecting this year. It really depends on how well LaDainian Tomlinson and Joe McKnight can take over in the Jets backfield. It's a focal point worth keeping an eye on.
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