We all know that our beloved Steelers are in the running for the Super Bowl this year, currently sitting at third favorites, but who else may be challenging? Of course, we can expect the Patriots to once again be in line for a Super Bowl appearance, they are currently the favorites, with the Eagles, Rams and Vikings all expecting to challenge too. Today though, we are going to look at some of the sleeper teams which may surprise us. Each year I like to tie in some sleeper teams with my football betting predictions, and here are 3 teams which you should be looking out for this season.
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers showed what they were capable of last season when they made it to the playoffs with an impressive 11-5 record, despite eventually losing on Wild Card Weekend. What is also important to note here is that the Panthers managed to not only get to the post-season, but also remain competitive despite some heavy injury losses. The Panthers defense was one of the best in the league last season and despite losing Star Lotulelei to the Bills, the rest of that sturdy defensive line has stayed in place. Offensively Carolina had to do something in the close season, and they have brought in Torrey Smith and Jarius Wright to give them more firepower, and more options for Cam Newton. Expect Carolina to have another impressive year.
Denver Broncos
Building on their phenomenal defensive statistics from last year, the Broncos head into the 2018/19 season with high hopes of causing some upsets. Offensively the Broncos need some work but they should see a far more composed Garrett Bolles, after a rookie season which had its ups and downs. Broncos have brought in Jared Veldheer to bolster their right sided attack, which could very well pay dividends. If the Broncos offense can step up this season, Denver will certainly be in with a shout of post-season success.
Washington Redskins
This is certainly a long shot but stranger things have certainly happened before in this sport. The Redskins had an awful time offensively last year, but it is important to remember that the majority of this was down to injuries rather than a lack of ability, evidence of which can be seen when you consider that the Redskins used 27 different combinations across the front line. The key players with injuries which the Redskins had last year are now fighting fit, and new QB Alex Smith will have had plenty of time to bed in with his receivers. The Redskins defense last year was woeful so the coaching staff have had to work magic in the offseason, with some smart draft picks and the addition of Da’Ron Payne, who will be right at home with ex-college roommate and fellow number 1 draft pick Jonathan Allen. Expect the Redskins to shore up that defense, and explode on the offense this year, the question will of course be consistency.
Who are your sleeper picks for this year?
