2011 AFC East Preview: It's Time for Take Off

The AFC East has been Jets-Patriots for the last few years now and while the Pats have seemingly dominated the regular season as of late, the Jets have been the team to get the furthest in the playoffs in the last two seasons getting to the AFC Title game twice and under the developing Mark Sanchez. The Pats seemed a bit reloaded, though, this year. They just gotten Albert Haynesworth and Chad Ochocinco as some notable additions. Not even one full year remove from the departure of the ultimate diva WR, Tom Brady gets another outspoken WR to throw to.

As for the Jets, this will be Mark Sanchez's third year in the league and he has done pretty good for the first two just looking at how far the team has gotten with him under center. The Jets have a new notable WR as well in Plaxico Burress who will look to prove he is still great player in the NFL. Santonio Holmes is also still there as well as Rex Ryan's defense highlighted by Darrelle Revis. As to how far the Jets will go this year, that will depend on how much Mark Sanchez has improved. If he can become just one of the top 10 QB's in the league, this team has a legitimate shot at a Super Bowl.

The rest of the division does not. The Miami Dolphins barely have enough confidence in Tony Sparano and Chad Henne to just show up. How does management expect them to win a division? Miami is likely going to take a step back this year. I honestly expect the Bills to take third place in the AFC East and even flirt with a .500 record. Even though they were the worst in the division last season, they played every game tough and seemed like they could've actually gotten to .500 with a little bit of luck.

Who will win the AFC East? Again, it has to go back to how much Sanchez has improved. If he's only grown a little, look for the same results. If he breaks through to the next level, look to the Jets to become the division champs. I expect the later to happen and the Jets to overcome the Pats during the regular season and postseason. Don't worry, New England. You're still one of my Wild Card picks.

P.S. The Sports Khan Radio Show has returned and man it felt good to be back on the air (so to speak). Be sure to tune in to the show every Thursday at 4 PM this Fall on KSUNradio.com... Pretty Good.