Some are calling this a Super Bowl preview, but I'm not. That would be disrespectful to the Eagles and Falcons. The Panthers could end up being like last year's Seahawks, who were many people's pick to win the NFC but got knocked out in the first round of the playoffs. Carolina already has lost defensive tackle Kris Jenkins for the season. His absence will affect the Panthers' defense because there is no replacement for Jenkins. Whoever takes over his spot just isn't the same caliber of player.
The Patriots clearly are the best team in the NFL because 1) they're used to winning and 2) they have Bill Belichick and Tom Brady. They clearly are the favorites for Super Bowl XL. Everyone else is chasing after them.
Prediction: New England. This is the week Corey Dillon bounces back with a big rushing day. Look for the Patriots to get back to what they do, and that's running the football and playing great defense.