AFC East 2009 Preview and Predictions

New England Patriots: Despite winning 11 games last year while enduring a rash of injuries, most notably to Tom Brady, the Patriots season was not a success. When the playoffs are missed in New England it is an utter failure. In 4 of the Patriots 5 losses last year, they gave up over 30 points. Their defense did not notably improve in the off-season so it will be up to the offense to outscore a few of the Pats’ opponents this year.
Predicted Finish: 11-5



New York Jets: The Jets could have done what they did last year without Brett Favre. The question that must be asked is, “Will Mark Sanchez play as poorly as Brett Favre?”. The Jets defense will need to be stellar to account for the growing pains of a rookie QB and an average WR corps. The Jets could win 10 games, but 9 seems to be pretty generous.
Predicted Finish: 9-7



Buffalo Bills: I want to get excited about the Bills offense, but their pre-season performance had more injury reports than points, and the fact that their starting RB Marshawn Lynch is missing the first 4 games is sort of a buzzkill. Week 2 against Tampa Bay is a big week. Without a win at home against a bad Bucs team, the Bills are staring at 0-4. There is nothing tangible that gives confidence of the Bills making the playoffs this year.
Predicted Finish: 8-8



Miami Dolphins: The Dolphins sure did surprise people last year, and they will surprise people again this year. 8 of the Dolphins 11 wins last year were against opponents that finished the year below .500. Their schedule is more difficult this year and it will be reflected in their final record.
Predicted Finish: 6-10

See The Dean’s AFC West Preview and Predictions.

See The Dean’s NFC North Preview and Predictions.

See The Dean’s NFC West Preview and Predictions.

See The Dean’s AFC South Preview and Predictions.

See The Dean’s NFC South Preview and Predictions.

See The Dean’s AFC North Preview and Predictions.

See The Dean’s NFC East Preview and Predictions.