Houston Texans

Football odds makers aren’t giving the Houston Texans too much credit on the regular season win total futures, and it’s somewhat hard to argue with them. The Texans have struggled mightily in the past to win games against credible teams, but have won games in low pressure situations down the stretch of the season to finish 8-8 in the previous two years. But when you look at the Texans offense, it’s hard to ignore how explosive they can be. With Matt Schaub (if he stays healthy), Steve Slaton, Andre Johnson, Kevin Walter, Owen Daniels and Andre Davis, the Texans have one of the deepest, most explosive, most versatile offenses around. The defense is growing up too, which could make this a very dangerous team.

Buffalo Bills

Everyone is expecting this team to fall flat on their face, and I’m betting management is a little nervous about not only Terrell Owens but also Trent Edwards. But on paper, the Bills look like they might be a dangerous squad. With Owens and Lee Evans on the outside, Marshawn Lynch and Fred Jackson in the backfield, the Bills have a very capable offense. If the defense steps up, the Bills might surprise some folks and get to the playoffs.

Seattle Seahawks

Sportsbook odds makers are not giving the Seattle Seahawks much love but this is still a very good team. With Matt Hasselbeck under center, this team will have a shot to win every week, not to mention many people have forgotten how good their home field advantage is. They made some shrewd moves in the offseason, picking up T.J. Houshmanzadeh on offense and adding Corey Redding on defense. This is easily the best team in the NFC West.

Oakland Raiders

I know what you’re thinking, but I’m not under the Imperius Curse. No sports predictions have the Raiders finishing above .500 and neither do I. But the Raiders might actually get close to .500 if they play their cards right. For starters, either JaMarcus Russell has to grow up or Jeff Garcia has to take over as the starter. Either way, if the Raiders get good quarterbacking and they play defense like they did in December last year, this team has a shot to get close to .500, which would exceed expectations. After all, the Raiders do play in a very easy division.

Chicago Bears

Some football wagering fans have put the Chicago Bears on the radar and rightfully so. For the first time in a long time, the Bears have a legitimate quarterback and have the opportunity to be a dominant force in the NFC. This is a team with a stellar defense and now that Cutler will lead the offense, the defense won’t be overburdened to carry this team. With Cutler and Matt Forte on offense and a defense full of veteran Pro Bowlers, don’t be surprised if this team represents the NFC in the Super Bowl.