This is a follow up to my AFC predictions, four division winners and two wild cards.

New York Giants: I am NOT just picking the Giants because they’re my team! They were derailed by injuries and poor play from Brandon Jacobs last season. They’ve added Keith Bullock and Antrel Rolle. Aaron Ross, Mathias Kiwanuka and Chris Canty are back from injury. Although Domenik Hixon is out for the year, he has shaky hands and is overrated- his absence will allow Hakeem Nicks to blossom. As long as Jacobs returns to form, I expect the G Men to be a championship contender.

Green Bay Packers: Aaron Rodgers has shed his reputation as Brett Favre’s back up; he’s an outstanding quarterback. Greg Jennings is a great receiver and Donald Driver is incredibly consistent. Ryan Grant is one of the quickest running backs in the league- the Packers are simply a well oiled machine. The only other solid team in their division is the Vikings, and Favre has come to the end of the line. It’s not meant to be- there will be no magic this season and he’s going to regret returning for his 20th year.

New Orleans Saints: They’re the champs and didn’t lose anyone notable during the off season. How could they not make the playoffs?

San Francisco 49ers: This may sound crazy, but the Niners are not that bad. They have a bunch of elite defensive players like Patrick Willis, Takeo Spikes and Nate Clements. Alex Smith is due for a solid season especially with the return of Vernon Davis and Frank Gore. Also, Michael Crabtree will remind everyone of why he was so highly touted this season. Plus, the Cardinals will be lead by Matt Leinart and lost Anquan Boldin- that doesn’t sound like a formidable team to me.

Wild Cards: Atlanta Falcons & Washington Redskins

Both teams are decent defensively, it’s their quarterback-wide receivers combos that will be tough to stop. Matt Ryan is going to improve and Roddy White is a superstar. Donovan McNabb and Santana Moss will be enough to sneak the Redskins into the postseason. I would pick the Panthers but don’t have faith that they’ll ever have a serviceable QB. As for the Cowboys, every team can’t make the playoffs and Dallas routinely under achieves.