Atlanta Falcons: NFC Power Rankings, Week 1

Aug 29, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Giants quarterback

(10) throws a pass during the first half of their game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

The Saints enter the season without long-time TEJimmy Graham. The loss of his presence on offense will be detrimental toDrew Brees, who will now have to rely more on the agingMarques ColstonandBrandin Cooks. The Saints look to be moving toward a more balanced offense, utilizingMark Ingramand newly acquiredC.J. Spillerto improve the run game. The Saints are an enigma because they could surprise the nation and make the playoffs ro be in the running for the No. 1 pick. It’s too early to tell what to make of New Orleans, but at the moment, they look to be outclassed in the NFC and in their division.

The New York Football Giants are another fickle team that are difficult to predict. One has to assume that HC Tom Coughlin is on the hot seat this season, and may be gone at year’s end if he doesn’t deliver a playoff appearance. The Giants’ passing game looks as strong as ever with Eli Manning targetingVictor CruzandOdell BeckhamJr., but there isn’t much of a running and while not bad, the defense is not a strength of the team.

The Panthers offense suffered a huge blow after WRKelvin Benjaminwas lost to a torn ACL during the preseason(lesson: never have a fantasy draft early). Without Benjamin, the Panthers offense becomes more one dimensional, makingCam Newtonrely on TEGreg Olsenand the oft injured RBJonathan Stewartto produce. While the Panthers are a team that could sneak into the postseason because of their defense, it will be difficult following the injury to Benjamin.

Jeff Fisher‘s team made a significant change at QB this offseason, acquiringNick Foles. Foles health is superior to that ofSam Bradford‘s, and will give the team the stability at the position they have craved for years. The running game is a strength withTre Masonand Todd Gurley presenting a 2-headed monster at the position. The front-seven is as good as any in the NFL. The Rams will make a run at the postseason this year, but in the tough NFC West, it may prove difficult to attain a playoff berth.

Next: Tier II: Wild Card Contenders

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