When I looked throughout a NFC for a team to beat in 2005, the only team that kept coming to mind was the Atlanta Falcons. They have a high power offense that has a smart QB at the helm, named Michael Vick. The defense has improved in the off-season with the addition of LB Edward Hartwell, formerly of the Baltimore Ravens.

I finally believe in the Falcons defense. They were solid enough last year to be considered to be a decent unit, however should be even better this year. The expectations for fellow LB Keith Brookings and DE Patrick Kerney will be nothing less than All-Pro status, however a trip to the Superbowl is the ultimate goal.

The offense will finally blossom under QB Michael Vick. I believe he will finally use his RB's Warrick Dunn and T.J. Duckett out the backfield to maximize his needed runs on third downs to keep the drive alive and avoid the big hit. Second year WR Michael Jenkins needs to become a bigger part of the offense, because fellow WR Peerless Price has been anything but stellar, since he came from the Buffalo Bills. Do not forget about the X factor, TE Alge Crumpler, the Falcon's leading receiver in 2004, will have the eyes of Vick on him, as he decides whether to scramble or throw to his big target to avoid a sack. This year the Atlanta Falcons are going to the Superbowl, however they will not win.

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