The NFC West combined to win 24 games in 2009, the least of any division in football. In 2010, it will probably be more of the same. The loss of Kurt Warner and Boldin will be a big hit to the Cardinals offense. The Seattle made enough moves to look like they are trying, but are still not a winning ball club. The Rams are due to have their luck turn around, but will need a couple years before we even mention them and playoff contention in the same sentence. However, they get the opportunity to play each other twice, which means someone will be crowned “best among the worst”, and it looks to be the 49ers by default.
1. San Francisco 49ers
Projected Record: 9-7
Fantasy Sleeper: Michael Crabtree -WR
Cliff Notes: The 49ers Defense is a legitimate Top 5 NFL Defense. With that said, they will keep every game close. Alex Smith actually looked like a respectable NFL Quarterback for the last ten weeks of the season last year. With an improved offensive line in 2010, there is no reason he can’t continue that success. Given 16 games to play, Michael Crabtree should put up monster numbers.
2. Arizona Cardinals
Projected Record: 8-8
Fantasy Sleeper: Andre Roberts – WR
Cliff Notes: Losing Warner, Boldin, Dansby, and Rolle will be tough to overcome for the Cardinals. Other than easy schedule, there is no reason to think this team can win more than 8 games. If the Cards win more than eight games, I think it will be a testament to just how bad the rest of the NFC West really is.
3. Seattle Seahakws
Projected Record: 6-10
Fantasy Sleeper: Golden Tate – WR
Cliff Notes: The Seahawks were 2-8 outside of the NFC West last year. Pete Carroll is now running things in Seattle, but that won’t help them in 2010. This is going to be a rebuilding year for Seattle, which should mean plenty of reps for Golden Tate as the #2 receiving target. Target him in your fantasy leagues.
4. St. Louis Rams
Projected Record: 5-11
Fantasy Sleeper: Brandon Gibson – WR
Cliff Notes: The Rams were the only team to go winless at Home in 2009, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. The Rams seemed to get pummeled with injuries year after year, at least for the last few years. Although they have already lost #1 Reciever Donnie Avery, you have to think their luck can get a little better in 2010. Sammy Bradford should be exciting to watch, and some recievers have to step up. I expect Brandon Gibson and Mardy Gilyard to do just that.
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