2008 NFL Preview - AFC East

1. New England Patriots (16-0 in 2007)

Sadly, the miracle of last year will be nearly impossible to replicate. But with the easiest schedule on paper, it may not be as tough as some might think. This division should be locked up by Nov. 13th, when the Pats finish their 4th home game in 5 weeks. Two losses come from (one of) either Indy or Pitt, and one lost-focus/rest week after home field is decided. We can only hope that Favre can help the Jets make a run at the division. I'm hoping, but I'm not counting on it.

Key Aquisitions: Jerod Mayo, Lamont Jordan

Key Departures: Asante Samuel

2008 Predicted Finish: 14-2

2. Buffalo Bills (7-9 in 2007)

Lynch is an absolute beast. Edwards is settling in. I think it's going to be really interesting to see how the Bills do with both these two getting all the snaps. If a few things bounced their way in 2007 (and they ditched the Losman experiment earlier), the Bills might've had 9 or 10 wins and a wildcard spot. Playing the AFC/NFC Westies will give the bills 6 wins in 8 tries, the Jets and Miami will contribute the other 4. The bills will lose to the Chargers, Rams, Jacksonville, Cleveland and New England x2.

Key Aquisitions: McKelvin (CB), Hardy (WR)

Key Departures: none

2008 Predicted Finish: 9-7

3. New York Jets (4-12 in 2007)

Favre changes the dynamic of this team. For the good? We'll see. Clemens is the new Rodgers, and can't possibly be happy about it. But even a crusty Favre is a better option than these Clemens and will give them an extra couple wins. AFC Westies will smack around this team, as will New England, and Buffalo for sure. Also look for a possible surprise loss (Maybe Dolphins at home but probably not).

Key Aquisitions: Brett Favre, Vernon Gholston

Key Departures: Chad Pennington.

2008 Predicted Finish: 8-8

4. Miami Dolphins (1-15 in 2007)

They should be able to secure a high pick in the 2009 draft fairly quickly. They are the sacrificial lamb this season (again). With Pennington at quarterback and no defense, they'll be competitive in each game for about a half. Signing Pennington will not increase their 2008 win total, unless he hands them the entire Jets offensive playbook. I think that they can grab 2-3 cheap wins, but I can't find a team that I can honestly say they can beat. With a gun to my head, I'll take the Fins over the Ravens. They'll carry a 10 game losing streak into 2009.

Key Aquisitions: Jake Long, Bill Parcells

Key Departures: Jason Taylor

2008 Predicted Finish: 2-14