by Jake Morrison

Created on: August 25, 2009   Last Updated: June 14, 2010

Every year we see a surprise team that comes out of nowhere and makes a huge impact in the playoffs. Last year it was the Arizona Cardinals who made it all the way to the super bowl. This team has usually improved their team with trades, in the draft, or free agency. It is difficult to tell what team will be that team but here are the top two candidates for the 09-10 season.

New England Patriots

Two years ago the biggest sport story was the almost perfect season that the Patriots had. They won every game in the regular season, and then won every game in the playoffs until they got to the super bowl. They played against the New York Giants and were very close to winning until David Tyree's miracle catch to put the Giants in a position to win. They were all very shocked and disappointed at what happened but everyone thought that they were determined to win in the following year.

Last year in the season opener against the Kansas City Chiefs, The reigning MVP Tom Brady, was injured and would not play the rest of the season. This was a blow to all Patriots fans and it looked like the season was over. Then back-up quarterback Matt Cassel was able to give new life to the team leading them to a 11-5 record. This was not quite good enough to get into the playoffs and the season ended.

This year Tom Brady will be back and with more offensive weapons then two years ago. In addition to Randy Moss and Wes Welker, the Patriots have added wide receiver Joey Galloway and running back Fred Taylor. Both players are proven stars and a big reason why this team will be dangerous in 09.

New Orleans Saints

Going back a few years the saints have always been a decent team. Three years ago, the team made it all the way to the NFC championship game. They have been a fairly good team since but they have had a big problem with there secondary. There offense could put out the points with Reggie Bush and Drew Brees but there opponent would find a way to score more.

This year in the draft they used the 14th pick to get a corner back that can play right away. They also grabbed Darren Sharper who is a safety and a four-time prow bowler out of free agency. Both of these players will make immediate impacts on the defensive side of the ball and help the team.

With an improving defense and a always strong offense this team is looking very dangerous. This is a team that definitely has the potential to be a surprise to the rest of the league. Watch out because the New Orleans Saints are coming.

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