The NFC West is expected to be one of the stronger and more competitive divisions this season. Russell Wilson returns to Seattle, despite offseason rumors of unrest. Matthew Stafford joins the Rams. Trey Lance provides a challenge to Jimmy G. in San Francisco, while the Cardinals added a number of seasoned veterans to the roster (hello, JJ Watt). So, where does that lead when attempting to come up with 2021 NFC West Season Predictions?

A new NFL season means a few renewed traditions at The Wife Hates Sports. First and foremost, it’s THE WIFE releasing an ultra-heavy dose of eye rolls, as she knows the next chunk of months will see the weekends swallowed up by football (both college and pro). Secondly, it’s time for KP’s NFL season predictions, specifically piggybacking off the SportsChump and his annual Over/Under Contest, where you predict the upcoming regular season win totals of NFL teams (by confidence).

Only, this year will feature something new. While I will – and did – complete my top ten over/under win total bets for the 2021 season, I’ll also tackle every team’s record (by division).

Specifically, here are my 2021 NFC West Season Predictions – oh, and don’t forget that the upcoming year has been supersized to seventeen regular season games.

Team – 2021 O/U

  • Los Angeles Rams – 10.5
  • San Francisco 49ers – 10.5
  • Seattle Seahawks – 10
  • Arizona Cardinals – 8.5

Above features the projections from Vegas, and here are my picks for the NFC West:

2021 NFC West Season Predictions: Over/Under Win Total Bets

Los Angeles Rams – (10.5 wins – OVER)

If not for the Cam Akers injury, this would be slam dunk take on the over. It still could be, but who will emerge as the top back in LA? Are we looking at Darrell Henderson or the recently acquired Sony Michel? In general, let’s not forget the L.A. defense (featuring Jalen Ramsey and Aaron Donald), which led the league in total defense last season, allowing 281.9 ypg. Add in Matthew Stafford, who when healthy, will provide an upgrade over Jared Goff. Overall, if Stafford stays healthy for most of the season, the Rams are a strong bet to grab at least eleven wins, despite losing its top back prior to the season.

KP’s Prediction: 11-6 | Confidence: Medium

Los Angeles Rams Gear

 

San Francisco 49ers – (10.5 wins – OVER)

The Niners were a team decimated by injuries last season. Yet, San Francisco remained 5th in the NFL in total defense (314.4 ypg allowed). The 6-10 finish was a major disappointment, especially considering the Niners were 5-3 on the road.  So, which Niners team will we get in 2021? The 6-10 squad in 2020 or the 13-3 team from 2019 that made it to Super LIV? Trent Williams is locked up to anchor the LT position. Nick Bosa is healthy and ready to lead a strong defensive front. Brandon Aiyuk and Deebo Samuel are a nice 1-2 punch at the WR position. Also, if you saw my NFL Draft post from a few months back, you’ll know I’m a big fan of Trey Lance. He adds a mobile element that’ll mesh well with Mostert, Sermon, and the other backs. Whether Jimmy G starts or not, this feels like a bounce back year.

KP’s Prediction: 11-6 | Confidence: Medium

Trey Lance San Francisco 49ers Jersey

 

Arizona Cardinals – (8.5 wins – OVER)

How do some franchises address talented rosters that aren’t quite getting over the hump? Frequently, it’s bringing in seasoned veterans. That’s what Arizona did during the offseason, adding WR A.J. Green, DE J.J. Watt, CB Malcolm Butler, and K Matt Prater. There are reports that Butler is mulling retirement due to a personal issue. Still, there is a really nice balance of talent on this roster, both veterans and younger players. The WR group really pops off the page, with Green, Hopkins, Kirk, Isabella, and rookie Rondale Moore. Kyler Murray has his fair share of weapons to throw to. The division road will be tough, but anything short of double-digit wins would be a major disappointment.

KP’s Prediction: 10-7 | Confidence: Medium High

Zaven Collins Arizona Cardinals Jersey

 

Seattle Seahawks – (10 wins – UNDER)

The offseason Russell Wilson trade rumors seem like ages ago. This was a middle-of-the-pack team offensively last year (17th in NFL). Defensively, Seattle was 31st against the pass (285.0 ypg allowed) and 5th against the run (95.6 ypg allowed). Statistically, the Seahawks don’t jump off the page. Yet… 12-4 in 2020. Credit Russell Wilson and coaching – at least, to a degree. There are no free agency signings that really scream major improvements. Arizona is better on both sides of the ball. San Francisco is healthy and likely to take a step up. The Rams added Matthew Stafford. Someone has to take a dive in the standings. It feels like that would be Seattle. I’m bravely taking the under (but with low confidence).

KP’s Prediction: 9-8 | Confidence: Low

Seattle Seahawks Gear

 

Who do you have hoisting the NFC West division crown? Chime in via the comments section below and as always, thank you for visiting The Wife Hates Sports!

 

Recap of all Teams/Divisions for the 2021 NFL Season

 

References: NFL.com Stats | OurLads Depth Charts 

Image Credit: JJ Watt Twitter 

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