National Football League

Picks and predictions for the 2009 NFL season

Published Sep. 8, 2009 7:22 p.m. ET

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OK — so the Falcons didn't turn out to be one of the worst teams in football.

Dallas didn't go deep into the playoffs.

Miami was just a little bit better than I'd expected.

And the Saints didn't make the playoffs.

But it's a new season — and with a new season comes a new chance to get it right.

So hide the women, children and Gregg Easterbrook.

It's time again for the fifth annual SCHEIN preseason picks on FOXSports.com.

NFC East

1. Giants 11-5

There are valid concerns at the receiver position and legit injury questions on defense. But Tom Coughlin doesn't get enough credit for having his team ready to fight every week — and for simply being a great football coach. Eli Manning, Brandon Jacobs and the NFC's elite offensive line set the tone for this winning organization.

2. Cowboys 10-6 (Wild Card)

The Dallas Cowboys are the most drama-free team in the division. It's crazy, but true. A misplaced, gigantic scoreboard and the NFL's asinine decision to have a do-over if a ball hits it have been grabbing all the headlines, not the state of affairs on the gridiron — and that's a good thing. Wade Phillips has his hands all over the defense, whereas Tony Romo is sans Terrell Owens and Jessica Simpson, and thus is primed for a big season. I love the three-headed monster at running back.

3. Eagles 10-6 (Wild Card)

Before the Eagles signed Mike Vick, I had them as a division winner and Super Bowl team. After they brought in the ultimate distraction and offensive flow-killer (ask Donovan McNabb if you don't believe me), I considered dropping them out of the playoffs all together. But I have too much respect for Andy Reid, Brian Westbrook and McNabb to do that. And while the Stewart Bradley injury is a huge one, and the defense hasn't looked the part in August, I do believe in the talent and coaching. It's the health and chemistry on the offensive line that scares me.

4. Redskins 7-9

I love the defense, which could become the best in the division. And I do trust in Jason Campbell. That tells you how much I don't believe in the right side of the line, the quality and depth at receiver, the Clinton Portis/Jim Zorn relationship and, simply, Jim Zorn.