The NFC 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…

NFC East- Philadelphia Eagles (10-6)

The How’s- Michael Vick and the deep threat offense, with DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, Jason Avant the list goes on and on the Eagles seem to have instant offense all the time. Throw in the rushing attack of Vick and LeSean McCoy and you know that the Philly offense was for real.

The Why’s- Honestly because the Giants could not finish them off when they had the chance, the other teams in the division were under achievers.

NFC West- Seattle Seahawks (7-9)

The How’s- Fact is, because they were able to beat the Rams in the final regular season game, they weren’t very good on offense or defense, but they did come to play in the first round of the playoffs as they defeated New Orleans, they proved that they should have been there.

The Why’s- The other teams in the division were horrible, there is no other way to put it especially when you win the division with a 7-9 record.

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NFC North- Chicago Bears (11-5)

The How’s- With Mike Martz helping Jay Cutler you could see how chemistry played a big part between the two and the offense. With no big name superstar at receiver the Bears put together a solid offensive season but the fact is the defense reigned supreme.

The Why’s- Because they were able to best the Packers finishing 5-1 in the division and 11-6 overall, one game ahead (but the Packers got the last laugh and the Super Bowl title).

NFC South- Atlanta Falcons (13-3)

The How’s- The Run and Gun offense, with Matt Ryan emerging as a solid quarterback in the NFL and the rushing attack of Michael Turner the Falcons proved they are winners. Throw in Tony Gonzalez, Roddy White and a fierce defense and you have the recipe for the best record in the NFC.

The Why’s- They seemed to click on offense and defense almost every time they stepped on the field. They basically overcame their biggest obstacle in the New Orleans Saints and once that was done, they knew it was there time.

By Sam Adams
Pro Football Fans Staff Writer