Living in Minnesota, I often grow used to the idea of "looking ahead," but this is different.

Unlike my proclamation of failure in regard to the Minnesota Vikings' dwindling playoff hopes last season, this is looking at the upcoming season to see what we might expect.

The 2009-2010 NFL season brings hope for some, but for others like those in Detroit, you may already be looking at the 2010-2011 season.

Being the true football fan that I am, however, I'm already picking favorites for divisional, conference and even Super Bowl champions.

 

Divisional Champs

NFC North

For the NFC North, I think I'm going to pick Minnesota. I know Chicago has Cutler, but the Vikings have way too much riding on them this year to see everything slip away.

Besides, Jay played in the same division as Jared Allen, so, if I were Cutler, I'd be scared.

 

NFC South

I'm going to go for the repeat and pick Atlanta. Hands down.

 

NFC East

I think this one is a toss-up between New York and Philadelphia. Dallas could pull it off, but I think, even with how bad of a team player he was, Terrell Owens brought a lot onto the field.

 

NFC West

Arizona, even if the Cards are without Boldin. You still can't stop Fitzgerald.

 

AFC North

Pittsburgh. They are the reigning World Champions, and winners all-around.

 

AFC South

This is another toss-up between Indianapolis and Tennessee. The Colts are good, but there's no more Tony Dungy or Marvin Harrison.

Tennessee may have a solid defense, but I don't know how they can hold up down the stretch.

 

AFC East

New England. Tom Brady's back, and while he may not play at the top of his game, he's still No. 12.

 

AFC West

I'm going with San Diego here. Denver may have a new coach, but losing your veteran QB is a problem...I don't care who you are.

 

Conference Champions

NFC

I think either New York, Minnesota, or Atlanta.

 

AFC

Toss-up between San Diego, the AFC South team, or Pittsburgh.

 

Super Bowl Champions

This year is the year that the AFC falls. No question, the NFC seems so much stronger than the AFC this year.

 

Early predictions and constant debating are what makes football fun, so let's get the conversation started!

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