So we’re now halfway through the NFL season, and some teams have already proved themselves as a lock for a playoff spot, while some are going to have to pull together big time just to make it. I’m going to list off some of the big surprises of the NFL, and also some of the big disappointments.

New England Patriots: The Patriots have in some ways passed expectations for this season, but also they have let some fans down so far. With a 5-2 record to start the season, many fans were finally brought back down to earth with the fact that, just because Tom Brady is back this season, the Patriots are not going to have another dominating perfect season. I’m surprised some people expected that from the Pats this year. On the other side, Tom Brady exceeded expectations so far by actually doing really good up until the halfway mark of the season. Coming back from an injury that ended his 2008-2009 season, I’m sure not many people expected him to throw 5 touchdowns in a single quarter against the Titans (Week 6) or to have a 99.9 quarterback rating, seconded only to his 18-1 season in 2007, where he had a 117.2 rating.

New Orleans Saints: The Saints and the Colts are the only 2 teams remaining with a perfect record (Both 7-0). They rank 1st in points per game (39.0) and 1st in yards per game (428.7). Drew Brees is having a monster season with a 107.6 quarterback rating. He does exceptional at home with a 126.9 rating, but on the road he only has an 83.0 rating. I expect this team to make it to the Superbowl if they continue like this.

Indianapolis Colts: Not much more to say about this team different than what I just said about the Saints. Manning is having a season similar to his 2007 Superbowl title. It doesn’t matter if they’re home or away, this team is a force to be reckoned with.

Denver Broncos: The Broncos were a big surprise this season. at 6-1 at the halfway mark of the season, they’re stunning many fans by looking more and more like a playoff team every week. Let’s just say, this season is going to be one to remember for the Broncos.

And now, some of the disappointments of the NFL…

Tennessee Titans: The Titans went from being a playoff team in 2008 to a huge let-down in 2009. Going 0-6 before getting their first win, the 1-6 Titans had a promising 2009 season that went down the drain.

Detroit Lions: After the final whistle sounded after the Lions’ week 3 game against the Redskins, the Lions officially clinched a better record then their 2008 season. After going 0-16 last year, the Lions currently sit at 1-6, getting 1 win more than last year by Week 3.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers: The Bucs are the only winless team remaining in the NFL, and with a starting QB that barely complete 50% of his passes, you can’t blame them. More than likely, Bucs fans are looking forward to the big day in 2010 – draft day.

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