44Thrilla's NFL Top 10

1. Saints - They are still the champs. All the key characters remain. It was a dream season for them last year, it will be hard for them to do it all over again.

2. Vikings - And it's not because of Brett. They are one of the few teams left with a game-altering defense. Add AP, solid line play and some big play receivers, all the ingredients for a powerhouse.

3. Colts - As much as it pains me to admit they are a top 3 team, I just can't get ridiculous. Peyton Manning is amazing, all the defense has to do is play adequate, and they will get a first round bye.

4. Ravens - They no longer have a defense that can be called "dominant", but they have made huge improvements offensively with wideouts T.J. and Boldin.

5. Patriots - Homer pick? Maybe. Brady is finally 100% after his knee injury two years ago. The defense has gotten younger, faster and more athletic. Don't be too quick to forget how this same team absolutely crushed team after team in 07.

6. Packers - Aaron Rodgers looks like he's ready to put himself up on the QB pedestal right next to Brees, who jumped on last year. They play defense, they have nice skill players, is that offensive line going to hold them back, though?

7. Chargers - Ryan Mathews is my ROY pick. They'll get big plays from Sproles. Rivers is as solid as they come, and oh yeah, they have a pathetic schedule. They could end up with the NFL's top record.

8. Cowboys - Pretty solid all-around team. Put a different QB on that team and they might go somewhere. They aren't good enough to win despite Tony Romo.

9. Jets - Last time I checked, you have to score points to win. Sanchez is garbage. They couldn't even score in the preseason, playing against base defenses with no gameplans. Even Rex Ryan doubts them. Best defense in the league, though. That will win them some games.

10. Bengals - Carson Palmer is great when healthy. They did not end the season well last year, but they are way too talented to be left out of the top ten.