Some NFL analysts are predicting a big bounce-back year for the San Francisco 49ers. Others think Jonathan Gannon has quietly developed his Cardinals defense to the point where they can make it into the playoffs in 2025. There are even a few cockeyed optimists who think the rebuilt Seattle Seahawks are going to shock the world. Count me in that cockeyed club.
But if you asked me yesterday, I would have told you to bet big on the Los Angeles Rams to repeat as NFC West champs this year. Most oddsmakers have the Rams running about neck and neck with San Fran as the favorites.