This is going to be an interesting year. The AFC South had 3 teams with an even or winning record last year. I think the division is on the rise.

 

- The Jaguars had a very good defense last year. The year prior, they had a very good offense. If they could pull it all together, they actually have a good shot at winning the AFC South. (This coming from a Colts fan). As jaguar fans already know, there is a lot riding on Bortles' shoulders this year. It's a make or break season for him as he is the most pivotal cog in the system.

 

-The Titans finished the season at 9-7 and showed that they were willing to place emphasis on the trenches. They shored up their O-line and run game, and I anticipate that they will improve their passing offense and passing defense, making them a well-rounded team. If Mariota can stay healthy and continue to develop, the Titans (if not already) can become a formidable team. They are definitely in contention for the AFC South title.

 

-The Colts finished the season with an 8-8 record, boasting the 30th ranked defense. The defense had progressively gotten worse every year under Grigson, yet, the Colts have never had a losing season under Pagano. With the AFC South teams improving and the defense still in-flux, the Colts will once again boast the worst defense in the division. The Colts offense was hit-or-miss as they dealt with injuries all along the O-line and their receiving corps. This season depends on how well the defense performs and more importantly, how well Luck's shoulder heals and holds up during the season.

 

- The Texans are the reigning AFC South Champions. Last year, the team showed how good their defense really was, finishing among the best in the league even without their best player, JJ Watt, for most of the season. Watt is expected to be healthy this upcoming season, however, the Texans lost starters and role players along their defense. I still expect the defense to be the strength of the team. Without a franchise QB, I expect the Texans to take the Titans approach and focus on the run while controlling passing situations. The Texans will be a good team, however, not as god as they were this past season.

 

This is how I predict the final outcome:

 

1. Titans

2. Colts

3. Texans

4. Jaguars

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