NFL Expectations, 2010 Edition

The most popular sport in America is the NFL, by far. It is almost September, which means the season is super close to starting. I liked how I did this for the baseball season so I'll do the same for the NFL teams.

The NFL prides itself on parity. Because of teams like the Atlanta Falcons and Miami Dolphins of the recent past, every team starts with a chance of making the playoffs and competing for the Super Bowl so optimism flows freely.

So the dream of every team is to win the Super Bowl, right? And that means that the season was a failure and utter disappointment for the other 31 teams who don't? Not really. Teams are at different places in their development. The Rams won 1 game last year and have a rookie quarterback running the show, and the Lions and Bucs won 2 or 3 and have a 2nd-year QB under center. Survival will be a success.

Here are realistic goals that can produce a successful season for each team, ranked in order of prestige. In January and February, look back on these benchmarks to get a realistic picture on the success or failure of your team. I would also like to point out that it is possible for teams to surpass these expectations. Basically, this benchmarks complete the statement: "If this team ______ then the season was successful. Anything less is a failure."

WIN SUPER BOWL CHAMPIONSHIP
Ravens, Cowboys, Colts, Vikings, Patriots, Jets, Chargers

WIN CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP
Falcons, Packers, Saints, Steelers

WIN A PLAYOFF GAME
Bengals, Giants, 49ers

MAKE THE PLAYOFFS
Cardinals, Panthers, Texans, Jaguars, Dolphins, Eagles, Redskins, Titans

GETS 8 WINS (.500)
Bills, Bears, Broncos, Raiders, Seahawks

GETS 6 WINS (RESPECTABILITY)
Browns, Lions, Chiefs, Rams, Buccaneers