The AFC Division winners of 2010 (The How’s and Why’s)
Everyone knows that to win the division in the NFL there must be key components that are in place, first a solid game plan against the other teams in your division is a must. Second, you must have a form of the “teamwork” mindset what I mean is when the offense doesn’t step up and do the job the defense can take over and what makes it special is when both are clicking on all cylinders. Third, the will to win is a must, the focus of no matter how much we are down we are never out and it becomes a team mentality. In 2010, it seems as though that could have been the cry of many of these division winners, many times down but not out, these teams fought and won there divisions. Let’s take a look at the winners…
AFC East- New England Patriots (14-2)
The How’s- Tom Brady and a very fluent offensive game plan, the Patriots were able to execute offense the best in the NFL and that is with trading Randy Moss in the process. With many no names at key positions they made it work leading to the best record in the NFL.
The Why’s- Offensive and Defensive teamwork and just being better than other teams in the division finishing 5-1 in their division. Until the other teams get the connection and leadership the Patriots have they will continue to look up at the Pats.
AFC West- Kansas City Chiefs (10-6)
The How’s- By having a better overall record rather than a winning divisional record (Oakland finished 6-0). Kansas City had solid defensive play for most of the season even though the offense was shaky at times.
The Why’s- It really was a defensive plan that took the Chiefs to the playoffs, with many electric offensive players such as Charles, Jones, and Bowe, the defense is what created all the hype in KC, with good reason.
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AFC North- Pittsburgh Steelers (12-4)
The How’s- This was the greatest display of team work and coming together in the NFL, as Big Ben was suspended for the first 5 games of the season the Steelers didn’t miss a beat as they finished above .500 in those games he missed. As always the defense wins games and the Steelers relied upon them many times.
The Why’s- The defense with Polamalu at captain, it really is true that a team can take on the image of the captain and this team plays all out. With the deep threat on offense from Mike Wallace and the rushing of Rashard Mendenhall they may not blow you away but if they got a lead the defense stepped up and shut it down.
AFC South- Indianapolis Colts (10-6)
The How’s- Basically resilience and will to win, the Colts were hit hard with injuries all season long and many to key pieces of the offensive puzzle. With Manning at the helm it seemed that he willed his team to win and even when he struggled with consistency the team never gave up.
The Why’s- A strong stretch run solidified the division for them, as Jacksonville could not take control of the division when they had the opportunity. After Manning battled through a horrible interception streak the Colts really put it together and clicked when it counted down the stretch.
By Sam Adams
Pro Football Fans Staff Writer