NFL 2011: Enjoy the ride.

I just took a look back at my predictions for last years NFL season...let's take a look, shall we?

Playoff SlotI predictedWhat happened ThoughtsAFC EastNew York JetsNew England PatriotsThe Jets did win the Wild Card, but I discounted the Patriots entirely, saying they didn't have enough talent. They went 14-2. AFC NorthBaltimore RavensPittsburgh SteelersLike the Jets, the Ravens missed a division title (but went 12-4) but did make the playoffs as a Wild Card. I picked the Steelers for that slot, so these were just flipped. AFC SouthIndianapolis ColtsIndianapolis ColtsMy exact quote was: "Picking against the Indianapolis Colts is just stupid until they prove otherwise. Drive on." AFC WestSan Diego ChargersKansas City ChiefsDid not see this coming. Wild CardsPittsburgh Steelers, Tennessee TitansBaltimore Ravens, New York JetsCan we all agree to pretend I didn't pick the Titans? Wow. I honestly can't believe I did that.AFC ChampionBaltimore RavensPittsburgh SteelersNot a terrible pick, but I (like most) didn't think the Steelers had a real shot with Roethlisberger missing the first four games of last season..NFC EastDallas Cowboys Philadelphia EaglesThe Cowboys not only missed the playoffs, they went 6-10 and fired their coach. Great pick! NFC NorthGreen Bay PackersChicago BearsI absolutely forgot this until I checked. The Packers ended the year looking so dominant, it's hard to remember they didn't even win their division.NFC SouthNew Orleans SaintsAtlanta FalconsMy exact quote was: "This one belongs to the New Orleans Saints until Drew Brees and coach Sean Payton say otherwise." Or, you know, Matt Ryan, Roddy White and Michael Turner do. NFC WestSan Francisco 49ersSeattle Seahawks ... I honestly still have no words about this. I hate Mike Singletary. The Seahawks might be the worst team in the league this year and they won the division. Thud.Wild Cards Atlanta Falcons, New York GiantsGreen Bay Packers, New Orleans SaintsAs I'd picked the Packers and Saints to make the playoffs, the only miss here really is the Giants. A much better job with the NFC, I think.NFC ChampionGreen Bay PackersGreen Bay PackersNAILED IT!Super Bowl ChampionGreen Bay PackersGreen Bay PackersNAILED IT!

So, all in all, not too shabby but some seriously embarassing picks there. I don't think I'm a football genius but I do pay some attention. I think the lesson here is every year contains a suprise or three, and given the lockout, I'd wager we'll have even more in 2011. Should be exciting...