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Cam Newton dabbed and boogied all the way,

To last year’s Super Bowl, before stumbling,

This off-season has seen critics inveigh,

That the loss of Norman will be troubling,

But unless Atlanta and N’Awlins surge,

The South remains Carolina’s to lose,

Their front seven’s strong enough to submerge,

The hopes of foes that await a breakthrough,

Even if the Saints tally five touchdowns,

In any given game, they’ll give up six,

For all their talent, the Falcons dumbfound,

Inconsistency is their crucifix,

And like the other three, Tampa can score,

It’s just that most opponents will score more.

***

NFC WEST

Arizona Cardinals | Los Angeles Rams | San Francisco 49ers | Seattle Seahawks

Relocation and an anthem protest,

Were juicy subplots in California,

But that aside, it’s evident the West,

Is still ruled by two teams with aura,

‘Zona’s loaded offence should be revered,

It’s past due time they come through in the clutch,

In Seattle, Marshawn Lynch disappeared,

Into the night; now, Russell* has no crutch,

So, no, the ‘Hawks and Cards aren’t bulletproof,

But both will vie for the NFC crown,

Gurley’s the lone Ram who can raise the roof,

After moving, they’re bound for a letdown,

And though some fans disparaged Kaepernick,

We hope they don’t think Blaine** will do the trick.

*Russell Wilson.

**Blaine Gabbert.

***

Email: nfaris@postmedia.com | Twitter: @nickmfaris