AFC South Prediction: Can The Houston Texans Catch The Indianapolis Colts?

My 2010 NFL predictions are almost at their conclusion. I have two divisions left to go. Today's AFC South prediction, and next week we will finish off our last division prediction in the NFC South.

The Indianapolis Colts have shown dominance of the AFC South over the past few years. Despite the division crown going to different teams a few times during the years, the South has always been highlighted by the Colts.

However, can there be a change of hands in 2010? Here are my predictions for the AFC South.

1. Indianapolis Colts

Despite the gap being closed within the division, I am not going against the Colts as long as Peyton Manning is around.

Last season's MVP will lead his team to another division crown. Why? Let's start on the offensive side. From Reggie Wayne, all the way to Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie, Manning has too many options to throw to.

Despite the offensive line getting up there in age, they will still give Peyton enough time to sling the ball across the field.

Don't underestimate the running game as well, with Joesph Addai and Donald Brown looking to have bounce-back seasons.

As for the defense, they will never be a top ten unit statistically. However, they find ways to execute turnovers under Jim Caldwell, and should not be a let down in most games.

Prediction: 12-4

2. Houston Texans

I am buying the hype of the Houston Texans in 2010. This year's offseason has convinced me that this talent of youth is ready to take it to the next level.

It will always start on the offensive side of the ball. Matt Schaub is going to show most fans how good of a quarterback he really is, instead of just being considered lucky to have a receiver in Andre Johnson.

Speaking of his weapons, the Texans should be a top-five offense in football this year. Owen Daniels returns from injury and will be a solid starting tight end, while Kevin Walter continues to bring a similar presence to Wes Welker.

More importantly, the running game will be a bigger factor, especially with signing Derrick Ward to add more depth to the offense.

The question remains on the defensive side, which is one of the youngest units in all of football. Can they play like the second half of the season, or will they fall due to youth and immaturity?

Prediction: 10-6

3. Tennessee Titans

Unfortunately for the Titans, they aren't going to benefit from the same division. In fact, I think they will stay right around the same record.

Losing Kyle Vanden Bosch and Keith Bulluck will hurt a bit on the defensive side, despite the amount of pressure you can get on the quarterback. It isn't easy to replace those kind of leaders.

On the offensive side, can I see Chris Johnson break Eric Dickerson's record? In my opinion, not this year, as carries will be diminished this season in some capacity.

The key will be Vince Young and the young group of receivers led by Kenny Britt.

Overall, they will be more competitive through the 16 games overall, but are going to struggle due to having one of the tougher schedules in the league this year.

Prediction: 8-8

4. Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars round out the division with a last place finish. Overall, there aren't enough pieces on this team to win in the tough AFC.

On the offensive side, the weapons need to step up and help Maurice Jones-Drew. Mike Sims-Walker and Martellus Bennett will have to provide the passing attack to create balance on the offense.

On the defensive side, the pass rush was improved with Aaron Kampman. Still, there are holes within the pass defense, which was one of the worst units in the league last season.

Jack Del Rio is on the hot seat for sure, and 2010 may indeed be the last year as head coach.

Prediction: 7-9

Matt Miselis is an NFL Featured Columnist for BleacherReport.com.
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