NFL Rankings: Which divisions will be strongest?

AFC South

The Indianapolis Colts were the unquestioned leaders of this division a season ago. They finished 11-5 overall and 6-0 in their division.

They may not go undefeated again in their division this season, but they will dominate. None of the other teams did enough to knock the Colts off their perch.

Andrew Luck is a year older and wiser, and he will have another fine season. The key to the Colts’ offense, however, will be Trent Richardson. He must be productive in order for Luck to have continued success, or to go far in the playoffs. So far this preseason, Richardson is averaging 2.4 yards per carry. That will not cut it in the regular season.

The Houston Texans had a horrible 2013. It seemed that their quarterbacks did not want to be on the field, so they just continually threw interceptions.

This season, out went Matt Schaub, and in came Ryan Fitzpatrick. I don’t know how much of an upgrade that is, so even though they won’t lose 14 consecutive games like last season, they won’t challenge the Colts or make it to the playoffs. It will be nice to see how great of a player Jadeveon Clowney is with J.J. Watt‘s help, however.

Most were shocked when the Jacksonville Jaguars selected Blake Bortles with the third pick (and first quarterback picked) in the draft. There were questions about him, but his work with Jordan Palmer really helped him, and he is opening eyes around the NFL. He won’t be a starter just yet, but when he is, the Jaguars will be an improved team.

Jake Locker is playing for his livelihood. The Tennessee Titans did not pick up his option, and with the drafting of Zach Mettenberger, he could find himself on his way out of there.

Bishop Sankey will be a revelation at running back. He will have a very good season, and his running will help the passing game. He will be a star in a few years. The Titans will be better, but in the next few years.