Atlanta Falcons

Michael Vick’s absence from training camp is huge news around the NFL and very bad news for the Falcons. Joey Harrington will most likely take the bulk of the snaps with the first-team offense. He’ll have the opportunity to get acquainted with receiver Joe Horn, who comes from New Orleans. Horn is not the receiver he used to be, but considering the lack of production Atlanta had last season from their receivers, Horn is a huge upgrade.

Bobby Petrino, the new head coach of the Falcons, has brought some order to a club that seemed to lack discipline last year. It will be interesting to see how he handles the Vick situation during training camp. It will also be a huge task for Petrino to uplift the defense that underachieved in 2006, especially in the passing game.

Prediction: The Falcons went 7-9 in 2006 with Vick under the center. What do you think will happen to Atlanta if Joey Harrington is the starting QB for the entire season? Yes, Joe Horn is an upgrade at receiver and Warrick Dunn and Jerious Norwood make a formidable duo in the backfield. I just don’t think they will be too competitive with Harrington as the QB. 2007 maybe another 7-9 season for the Falcons.

New Orleans Saints

The Saints had the number one ranked offense in 2006. Drew Brees will be looking to duplicate the 4,000+ passing yards and 26 touchdowns he produced last year. He has the weapons to do so with Marques Colston and rookie receiver Robert Meacham. Running back Reggie Bush is also a major option in the passing game, catching 88 passes last season. Bush will also split time with Deuce McAllister who was dominant last season.

The Saints defense is stout against the pass, but will need to step up against the rush in this year. Will Smith was the sack leader of the defense with 10.5. Linebackers Scott Fujita and Scott Shanle are tackling machines. The secondary will be slightly revamped this season with the additions of safety Kevin Kaesviharn and cornerback Jason David. The Saints are hoping that the new additions can step in and keep this unit solid in 2007.

Prediction: The Saints are the team to be in the NFC South this season. They are the most talented team among the four on both defense and offense. New Orleans won 10 games in 2006, and should have similar results this season.