The Colts didn't win the division last year and lost their playoff game to the Chargers but I like their chances to get healthy and return to their 12-win level.
HOUSTON TEXANS
Prediction: 10-6
This is the year they break through. Finally. A perfect storm in which Andre Johnson, Steve Slaton and a HEALTHY Matt Schaub are in sync and weapons Kevin Walter and Owen Daniels all contribute to a very good offense. Mario Williams is obviously the stud of the defense but in order for the Texas to reach the next level they need Dunta Robinson to return to his rookie form of 2004 in which he had 6 interceptions.
JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS
Prediction: 6-10
Frankly, not a very good team and things look bleak after a 5-11 season in 2008. Maurice Jones-Drew has the offense on his shoulders and the Jags are hoping for a Torry Holt renaissance. The defense doesn't look much improved from the one that finished 17th in total defense at over 330 yards per game last year. It's been said before but Jacksonville fans won't be missing much with the TV blackouts this year.
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
Prediction: 12-4
Peyton Manning and Joseph Addai are both healthy again and Anthony Gonzalez is ready to make the jump to 75+ catches as Manning's No. 2 man now. A defense that was solid with 18.6 allowed per game last year comes back with Dwight Freeney and Gary Brackett leading the squad. If Bob Sanders returns healthy, this team is a Super Bowl contender once again.
TENNESSEE TITANS
Prediction: 9-7
They're obviously weaker without Haynesworth but I really think Kerry Collins will no longer be able to get by as a game manager who relies on his defense to win. He will need to get the ball down field and limit his turnovers, neither of which I think he do. Chris Johnson and Lendale White will keep them in games but if the defense falters the Titans will not have the ability to catch up. Keith Bullock no longer creates turnovers and has become the Tennessee version of Teddy Bruschi.
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