Atlanta Falcons
There are a number of factors at play here that lead us to believe the Falcons are in danger of collapsing after making it to Super Bowl LI.
First off, losing their entire offensive coaching staff and their top two defensive coaches is a huge blow to the team’s ability to get back to the playoffs in 2017 (more on all that here).
Secondly, as good as Matt Ryan was last year we have to believe a huge reason for his success was that he found his groove in Kyle Shanahan’s offense. Remember, he struggled mightily in his first year under Shanahan. Now he’s going back to square one under a new coaching staff. And making things even spicier on this front, it’s none other than Steve Sarkisian who’s calling the shots on offense.
That’s not a recipe for disaster. Not at all.
Defensively the Falcons might be even better in 2017, which is a good thing. But we don’t expect the Carolina Panthers to win just six games again this year. Furthermore, Tampa Bay Buccaneers are charging hard for the divisional crown and you can never count out the New Orleans Saints, who have improved their defense up front.
Atlanta could very well end up being this year’s version of the 2016 Panthers in the end.