Giants (7-5): Contenders
The season sweep of the Cowboys helps immensely and come Week 17, the Vikings should be resting their starters. Somehow, some way, the Giants are still very much alive in this thing. More Antonio Pierce fist pumps and Justin Tuck piggy back rides, please!
Predicted Finish: 11-5
Cowboys (8-4): Pretenders
Tony Romo has about as much success in December as the Mets do in September. Dallas will drop the next two against San Diego and New Orleans, and it could all come down to the showdown with Philadelphia — just like last year. Expect the same result: a Philly win.
Predicted Finish: 9-7
Eagles (8-4): Contenders
No team has a more difficult road to the playoffs than the Eagles. On top of road dates in New York and Dallas, the Broncos and Niners are up ahead, too. Look for Philly to earn its way in, winning three of the last four.
Predicted Finish: 11-5
Packers (8-4): Contenders
Aaron Rodgers sure grew up fast. Ditto for linebackers A.J. Hawk and Clay Matthews. Just imagine how daunting that top-ranked defense would be if Al Harris and Aaron Kampman were still healthy.
Predicted Finish: 10-6
Falcons (6-6): Pretenders
Make no mistake, Chris Redman and Jason Snelling are not Matt Ryan and Michael Turner.
Predicted Finish: 8-8
