Alright, so we are about more than halfway through the 2012 NFL Season, but the journey to New Orleans has hardly begun.  It’s about this time where we start to see the contenders separating from the pretenders, although as noted in previous seasons, anything could happen once a team can get into the big dance.  Right now, I’m going to tell you which teams get to go to the dance.

Time for your NFC predictions:

NFC East

1. Giants- We’ve all seen this movie before, Giants start off strong, take November off, and then who knows what happens.  I say the G-Men rebound and clinch up the East, despite the tough schedule.  Yes, I’m a Giants fan; I am not worried at all; we’ve been through much worse.

2. Cowboys- the ‘Boys could make things interesting with the Giants if they win their division games, but hey in the modern Jerry Jones Era, I see another late season collapse in their future.  Maybe a wild card though.

3. Redskins- RGIII!  RGIII!  Robert Griffin III out of Baylor has been one of the most electrifying QBs in recent memory, but I just don’t see this team rallying and making the playoffs which would have to include some other downfalls around the league.

4 Eagles- The E-A-G-L-E-S are D-O-N-E!  It looks like the Andy Reid Era is about to come to a close as it looks like management could hit the reset button after this season.  One thing is for sure though, the South Philly faithful is NOT pleased.

NFC South

1. Falcons- After a stunning 8-0 start, the Birds took a tough loss from the Saints, and survived a heart attack from the Cards.  I think the Falcons were all smoke and mirrors, and just benefitted from a cupcake schedule.  They will definately win the division, but I’m not so sure they are legit.  Let’s wait until after Week 15 against the Giants, and we will see who this team really is

2. Buccaneers- Who knew the Tampa could produce such a high octane offense full of fantasy studs?  With the emergence of rookie Doug Martin and young QB Josh Freeman, the Bucs have turned into one of the most exciting teams to watch.  If they can split their division games with Atlanta I think the Bucs can come in as a wild card.

3. Saints- Bounty?  What Bounty?  Right now the Saints are sticking it to commissioner Rodger Goodell, as they have come back from a dismal start with out Head Coach Sean Payton, who was suspended by the hypocritical tyrant, I mean commish.  I may be a Giants fan, but I’m really happy for the Saints, I honestly cannot believe how the NFL reacted to the bounty scandal, and I’m pulling for the Saints to make that last Wild Card spot.  WHO DAT saying they’re going to beat them Saints?  Unfortunately I don’t think it’s going to happen because of the harsh gauntlet of San Fran, Atlanta, New York, and other tough matchups.

4. Panthers- After a stunning rookie performance by Cam Newton, Superman has fallen into the ever so popular Sophomore Slump.  I have a suggestion for you Mr. Newton, how about you start playing like the stud you are and stop complaining (and maybe start producing some stats for my fantasy team while you are at it).

NFC North

1. Packers-  The Bears are down, and the Pack is back.  When Aaron Rodgers is hot, there is no stopping this guy.  With a couple of tough games against the Giants and Bears, its smooth sailing for the rest of the season to the playoffs.

2 Bears- Chicago suffered a huge blow last night against a tough Niners team, without QB Jay Cutler.  The Monsters of the Midway could propel the Bears to the playoffs, but the team MUST win against the Packers Week 15 to have a shot to win the division.

3/4. Lions/Vikings- Honestly, I could care less about either of these teams, they are both depressing

NFC West

1. 49ers- The Niners came off a convincing blowout against a crippled Bears team.  Ever since getting crushed at home by the Giants, this team has regained form.  Even though Alex Smith is injured, it looks like Colin Kaepernick could maintain the helm while a tough defense and run game remains the core of this team.  I easily see the Niners getting a first round bye.

2. Seahawks- You got Russell Wilson, the Fail Mary, the 12th man, what more spells out underdog, upset special?  How great would it see for this team to win out and make the playoffs over the Cowboys or Green Bay?  Honestly I think if the Seahawks win the games they are supposed to win and maybe shut down the Niners at home, they have a shot at taking the last wild card team.

3. Cardinals- Cupcake schedule in the beginning gave false readings on this team.  The Cards are done, but they could potentially play spoiler to some teams down the road.

4. Rams- I’ll pass.

And so for the seedings…..

1. Niners

2. Falcons

3. Giants

4. Packers

5. Bears

6. Seahawks

Mark it down for the NFC…. next time it’s the AFC.