New England is not the dominating team of old, but they should be able to hold in the division. Buffalo, Miami, and the New York Jets all have quarterback problems. J.P. Losman is not ready, and the other teams will fight for Matt Leinart. Ricky Williams probably wishes he was still in the Far East lighting up.

AFC North

Cincinnati has cooled a bit, but their defense and offense both play well. Pittsburgh will need a healthy Ben Roethlisberger if it is to compete with Cincy. Cleveland wishes Lebron James played wide receiver. Prison time has made Jamal Lewis soft, and it has spread to the rest of the team.

AFC South

Indianapolis is making a run at a perfect season, and they just made a statement at Foxboro. Jacksonville cannot seem to become that elite team just yet. Steve McNair is probably wondering why he chose to play another year for a bad Tennessee team. Houston has suddenly regressed and needs major help.

AFC West

Denver’s running game is looking strong, and Jake Plummer is playing smart. Kansas City will try and challenge them, but can the team put it all together? San Diego has the offensive firepower, but their defense has weakened. I’m surprised Randy Moss is not complaining about how poorly Oakland is doing.

NFC East

The New York Giants are playing consistent football. Eli is finally starting to look like his brother. Washington has been the real surprise, with a solid defense and offense. Dallas could surprise some people with Bill Parcells running the ship still. Philadelphia should have learned from Minnesota; addition by subtraction does not work.

NFC North

Chicago should feel honored to be at the top in such a weak division. Maybe Minnesota has found new life with Brad Johnson at quarterback? Neither Joey Harrington nor Jeff Garcia can lead the Detroit offense. Brett Favre should retire in Green Bay. The team is not going anywhere.

NFC South

One good passing game does not mean Michael Vick can be a good quarterback. He will need to play like that for Atlanta to go far. Carolina has the tools to challenge Atlanta. This one could be settled New Year’s Day. Tampa Bay needs to get Cadillac Williams out of the shop to contend. New Orleans: Tragic story, but there is no sympathy on the football field.

NFC West