(1-1) New Orleans
The Saints have gunpowder in Kamara/Thomas but the true ignitor on that offense is Mark Ingram. Once he returns to the fold the Saints will return to ground and pound, control the clock football, which takes pressure off the defense. This is what made them so good last season. The offense will win games and get the Saints into the post season, but just like last year, their defense will blow it for them (10-6)
(1-1) Atlanta
The first thing that jumps out so far this season - injuries. Keanu Neal, Deion Jones, Andy Levitre, Devonta Freeman. I think their offense is still explosive, but the defense is going to struggle mightily down the stretch. The past has shown that when the Falcons defense underperforms, they find themselves with a top 10 draft pick the following off-season. My prediction is the Falcons hover around .500 all year but collapse at the final stretch (7-9).
(1-1) Carolina
Cam has a new OC in Norv Turner. McCaffrey has been a threat in the passing game more than the running game. Olsen is out. Their OL is already down 2 or 3 starters. I don't see the offense being dynamic enough this year to win games on that side of the ball alone. The Panthers need a strong year from their defense in order to keep themselves in contention. Problem is, they have a sketchy secondary, and Kuechly suffered yet another concussion in week one. I don't think he played against the Falcons, and given his history of concussions he probably shouldn't ever play another down. Carolina just doesn't seem threatening this season. My prediction is they bottom out midway through the season and clean house in January (6-10).
Final Standings
TB 11-5 (division champs)
NO 10-6 (wildcard)
ATL 7-9
CAR 6-10