Gerty Farish: Edith Wharton's Stunning Portrait of Friendship

Edith Wharton’s 1905 novel, The House of Mirth, is a tragic tale that depicts the last two years of New York socialite Lily Bart’s life and her fall from the upper class. After Lily and Lawrence Selden, whose romance is a primary focus in the novel, Miss Gerty Farish is arguably the novel’s most intriguing character. As Selden’s cousin and Lily’s close friend, Gerty is intimately involved with some of the story’s highest drama. Wharton describes Miss Farish extensively and in numerous ways, but Gerty remains a stable force in a plot filled with indecisive characters. Wharton provides several perspectives of Gerty—most notably those of Lily, Selden, and society as a whole—but above all else, she is shown to be a faithful friend. In a novel that vividly details the social consequences of an unforgiving society, Gerty Farish is a constant breath of fresh air for Wharton’s fatigued readers and a picture of true friendship to a protagonist that so desperately needs it.

While she is alluded to in the book’s opening chapter, Wharton introduces Gerty to her readers for the first time in chapter 8. The initial description is not flattering:

The young lady who thus formulated her admiration of her brilliant friend did not, in her own person, suggest such happy possibilities. Miss Gertrude Farish, in fact, typified the mediocre and the ineffectual. If there were compensating qualities in her wide frank glance and the freshness of her smile, these were qualities which only the sympathetic observer would perceive before noticing that her eyes were of a workaday grey and her lips without haunting curves. (95)

Right off the bat, Wharton makes it a priority to point out that society fails to, or refuses to, look beyond Gerty’s underwhelming physical appearance. It is what defines her to the upper class. Moreover, Wharton suggests that a woman’s appearance determined her fate in the same way wealth did for a man. Regardless, any attempt to escape such a fate or rise above a modest lifestyle is not a priority for Miss Farish. However, in a society obsessed with luxury, this is not considered an admirable trait. Continuing Gerty’s introduction, Wharton writes, “…there was something irritating in her assumption that existence yielded no higher pleasures, and that one might get as much interest and excitement out of life in a cramped flat as in the splendours of the Van Osburgh establishment” (96). Gerty Farish is so unlike everyone else in the novel because she is simply content with her life. While she lacks the envy and greed of those surrounding her, Wharton’s chief criticism is that this contentment borders on freeloading: “…it must be remembered that Gerty had always been a parasite in the moral order, living on the crumbs of other tables, and content to look through the window at the banquet spread of her friends” (160). As a member of the upper class, it is unclear to what extent Wharton’s critical tone is genuine disdain. When pointing out Gerty’s flaws, she seems to esteem the pure heart from which they are born: “It was characteristic of [Miss Farish] to take a sentimental and unenvious interest in all the details of a wedding: she was the kind of person who always kept her handkerchief out during the service, and departed clutching a box of wedding-cake” (96). It is evident that Gerty’s enjoyment of social events is both blissful and shameless, yet she does not lack hospitality herself. When Lily visits Gerty’s flat in Chapter 14 (Book 1) and Chapter 8 (Book 2), she is offered a cup of tea and a bed to sleep in as Gerty scurries around tending to her friend’s needs. And though Wharton’s use of the word “parasite” is telling, it is not the lone view of Miss Farish. In Chapter 5 (Book 2), Carry Fisher acknowledges, “Gerty’s a trump and worth all the rest of us put together” (245). Carry’s admission shows that the upper class may be in denial concerning Gerty’s worth, but they are certainly not unaware. Despite typically viewing her through a condescending gaze, society is both baffled by Gerty’s apparent satisfaction with dinginess and impressed with her selfless lifestyle.

Understandably, the primary voice Wharton uses to develop Gerty’s character is that of her protagonist, Lily Bart. In the book’s opening chapter Wharton establishes that Lily maintains society’s disapproval of Miss Farish: “‘Oh, I know—you mean Gerty Farish.’ She smiled a little unkindly. ‘But I said marriageable—and besides, she has a horrid little place, and no maid, and such queer things to eat…But we’re so different you know: she likes being good, and I like being happy'” (9-10). Many of Lily’s comments and allusions to Gerty have a backhanded undertone, but Wharton reveals her heroine maintains a far greater understanding and appreciation for her friend than this passage suggests. It is clear that Gerty’s desire to see the best in people borders on naivety, as Wharton writes in Chapter 11 (Book 1), “[Lily] knew that Gerty Farish admired her blindly…Miss Farish’s heart was a fountain of tender illusions…” (131). Later in Chapter 14 (Book 1), she points out, “Gerty Farish was not a close enough reader of character to disentangle the threads of which Lily’s philanthropy was woven” (161-162). And while this may be construed as a fault in Gerty’s character, Lily realizes this is part of the beauty that makes Gerty such a unique person. In Chapter 8 (Book 1), she tells Selden, “I envy Gerty that power she has of dressing up with Romance all our ugly and prosaic arrangements” (102). Lily understands the “power” of perspective, though she fails to use it herself until the very end of the novel. Wharton provides this duality in Lily’s view of Gerty to reveal the character of both women, but more than anything Gerty is there for her friend. Lily may not show her appreciation for this friendship, but she never forgets it. Upon receiving sympathy from Mrs. Kilroy, following a scolding from the milliner Mrs. Haines, Wharton powerfully notes, “Lily’s colour rose at the unexpected advance: it was a long time since real kindness had looked at her from any eyes but Gerty’s” (304). In the climactic Chapter 14, Lily’s distressed heart immediately seeks refuge from Gerty, acknowledging and assuming her selflessness. Throughout Book 1, Lily is well liked, popular, and appreciated, yet these empty friendships offer her nothing when times are tough. Wharton fills her plot with characters that are socially superior to the meek Gerty Farish, but none of them put Lily before their own interests—including Selden, Carry Fisher and her aunt Julia Peniston. Lily knows all the wonderful aspects of her dear friend, despite her failure to reciprocate them or communicate her profound appreciation.

The relationship Gerty has with her cousin, Lawrence Selden, reveals a great deal about the inner workings of her heart. For the most part, Selden is a fine cousin to Gerty. Any time he speaks of her, his words are complimentary and endearing. When he and Lily talk about Gerty’s wedding behavior in Chapter 8 (Book 1), Wharton notes, “There was not the least trace of embarrassment in his voice…” (102). Beyond a simple cousinly affection, however, there is little else in the way of care from Selden. His thoughts about Gerty are infrequent when he is not with her and unassuming regarding their relationship. There is clear affection on Selden’s part, but the feelings are mild and undeveloped. Wharton encapsulates Selden’s view of his cousin in Chapter 8 (Book 2): “He found Gerty as he had left her, simple, undemanding and devoted, but with a quickened intelligence of the heart which he recognized without seeking to explain it” (284). In Chapter 14 (Book 1), Wharton unveils a sort of unconventional love triangle to her readers when she depicts Gerty’s love for Selden. These feelings appear to be dormant and unspoken, but deeply rooted nonetheless. While this love triangle does not define the plot, Gerty’s suppressed emotions toward her cousin and dear friend seemingly lie tacit in the background of every scene involving the three that follows Chapter 14. Like Lily, Selden never makes any significant effort to affirm Gerty’s selfless lifestyle. In the book’s final chapter, his eyes are opened at last: “Gerty shook her head with a smile. ‘No: this is what she would have wished—’ and as she spoke a light broke though Selden’s stony misery, and he saw deep into the hidden things of love” (345). This is Wharton’s last exposition of Gerty Farish, and it illustrates both Selden’s inaction and his cousin’s unrelenting sacrifice.

Of all the perspectives Wharton provides, the most important is Gerty’s view of herself. Chapter 14 (Book 1) is the book’s most eventful chapter and Gerty is a central figure in it. It is in this chapter that Wharton presents Gerty’s introspection and reveals to her readers how the humble Miss Farish sees herself. First, Wharton describes Gerty’s motivation as, “…that sharpening of the moral vision which makes all human suffering so near and insistent that the other aspects of life fade into remoteness.” This helps explain Gerty’s actions within the novel and overall lifestyle. She cares for others above herself because she has conditioned the petty aspects of life to be distant concerns in her mind. Conversely, she has brought herself close to human suffering and those in need by establishing the Girls’ Club, in addition to her extensive involvement with other charity work. Wharton makes it clear that Gerty Farish has a taste for the finer things in life, but unlike most of the other characters, she is not enslaved to these luxuries. Gerty has a mature prioritization of what’s truly important in life and puts simple realities into a more meaningful perspective. Following this explanation of motivation, Wharton alludes to Gerty’s excitement that Lily has visited the Girls’ Club with her, writing, “…[Gerty] rejoiced in the thought that she had been the humble instrument of this renewal” (ital. added, 162). Throughout the entire novel, this appears to be Gerty’s highest view of herself. Without a doubt, she is defined by her humility. Wharton’s tone dramatically shifts later in the chapter as Gerty talks to Selden about Lily. After finally finding someone else who believes in her dear friend, Gerty is excited to share this sentiment with her cousin. However, she quickly realizes the two are in love and feels used and alone.

It was at this point, perhaps, that a joy just trying its wings in Gerty’s heart dropped to the earth and lay still. She sat facing Selden, repeating mechanically: ‘No she has never been understood—’ and all the while she herself seemed to be sitting in the centre of a great glare of comprehension. The little confidential room, where a moment ago their thoughts had touched elbows like their chairs, grew to unfriendly vastness, separating her from Selden by all the length of her new vision of the future—and that future stretched out interminably, with her lonely figure toiling down it, a mere speck on solitude. (167)

It is here that Wharton’s rhetoric surrounding Gerty Farish turns from encouraging to heart wrenching. Moreover, she exposes some of Gerty’s internal flaws. Wharton mentions “Gerty’s suddenly flaming jealousy,” (172) and as she lay in bed, “Reason, judgment, renunciation, all the sane daylight forces, were beaten back in the sharp struggle for self-preservation. She wanted happiness—wanted it as fiercely and unscrupulously as Lily did, but without Lily’s power of obtaining it. And in her conscious impotence she lay shivering, and hated her friend” (173). In her broken devastation, Gerty shows herself capable of the unkind human tendencies she so earnestly fights against: hatred, jealousy, vitriol, and selfishness. However, the tragic element of Wharton’s exposition is not that Gerty is a flawed individual, but rather that she finally submits to the cruel societal constraints that falsely project worth through wealth and physical appearance. As Gerty sits alone in her flat, Wharton writes, “Gerty felt the poverty, the insignificance of her surroundings: she beheld her life as it must appear to Lily.” Wharton continues this potent language: “[Gerty] went into her bedroom to undress. In the little glass above her dressing-table she saw her face reflected against the shadows of the room, and tears blotted the reflection. What right had she to dream the dreams of loveliness? A dull face invited a dull fate” (173). Despite constantly holding out Gerty Farish as a portrait of selflessness and grounded humility, Wharton reveals to her readers the insecurities and intimate struggles that exist in even the finest human beings.

Gerty’s role in terms of the plot is simply her relationships with Lily and Selden, but the overarching impact she has on Wharton’s readers is her enduring friendship. A closer examination of this friendship reveals how Wharton uses Gerty’s character to leave a lasting impression on her readers, including the silver lining to a tragic conclusion. The ending of Chapter 13 (Book 1) leaves Lily alone outside Gus Trenor’s house, emotionally devastated and overwhelmed. Transitioning into the climactic Chapter 14, Wharton’s heroine desperately desires refuge and security, but feels abandoned with nowhere to turn. As she walks down Fifth Avenue, she thinks of Gerty. Wharton’s diction displays both Lily’s need of friendship and her confidence that Gerty will provide it, “…if only she could feel the hold Gerty’s arms while she shook the ague-fit of fear that was coming upon her… It was not so late—Gerty might still be waking. And even if she were not, the sound of the bell would penetrate every recess of her tiny apartment and rouse her to her friend’s call” (159). Indeed, Lily’s assumptions prove to be accurate. Immediately following Wharton’s detailing of Gerty’s inner struggle and “hatred” of Lily, the doorbell rings and Gerty answers it without hesitation, remembering, “…that such calls were not unknown in her charitable work.” After Lily “caught and clung to” Gerty, Wharton describes her heroine as “one who has gained shelter after a long flight.” Given the context, Gerty’s willingness to help Lily seems extraordinarily admirable, but Wharton mentions, “Gerty’s compassionate instincts, responding to the swift call of habit, swept aside all her reluctances. Lily was simply someone who needed help…disciplined sympathy checked the wonder on Gerty’s lips” (ital. added, 174). This unquestioned service from Gerty is commendable, but it is only part of Wharton’s full portrayal of Miss Farish’s steadfast heart in the chapter. While Lily is crying about her desire to be with Selden, she understands Lily has won his heart: “The mortal maid on the shore is helpless against the siren who loves her prey: such victims are floated back dead from their adventure.” However, when she is presented with the opportunity to betray both Lily and her cousin, she resists the temptation.

Gerty stood cold and passive. She knew the hour of her probation had come, and her poor heart beat wildly against its destiny. As a dark river sweeps by under a lightning flash, she saw her chance of happiness surge past her under a flash of temptation. What prevented her from saying: ‘He is like other men?’ She was not so sure of him, after all! But to do so would have been like blaspheming her love. She could not put him before herself in any light but the noblest: she must trust him to the height of her own passion. (177)

Gerty’s passionate love for Selden is on full display, but so too is her loyalty to Lily. After aiding Lily in her time of distress, Gerty emotionally surrenders to protect both her friend and her cousin. Furthermore, this “trust” in Selden hints at another characteristic of Miss Farish: her faith.

Wharton establishes Gerty’s motivation in Chapter 14, but implicitly leaves clues as to what fuels Miss Farish. There is almost no mention of religion or spiritual beliefs within the novel, but on some level Gerty values the Bible. In Chapter 14, Selden hears her quoting scripture as Wharton describes his thoughts, “His mind turned to Gerty Farish’s words, and the wisdom of the world seemed a groping thing beside the insight of innocence. Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (164). In Chapter 5 (Book 2), Wharton contrasts Lily’s thoughts from Gerty’s, labeling them “worldly wisdom.” It seems Gerty’s hopeful vision for Lily sees her escaping the unfulfilling prospect of affluence and embracing a more meaningful life. No matter what Lily does, Gerty refuses to give up on this hope: “Having once helped Lily, she must continue to help her; and helping her, must believe in her, because faith is the main-spring of such natures” (250). Regardless of any dogma she may subscribe to, Gerty’s faith gives depth and purpose to her character. Wharton hints at this in Chapter 8 when Gerty pleads with Selden to regain his faith in her, “‘But now all the things she cared for have been taken from her and the people who taught her to care for them have abandoned her too; and it seems to me that if some one could reach out a hand and show her the other side—show her how much is left in life and in herself’” (286). Had Selden maintained a faith similar to his cousin’s, Lily Bart may have avoided her tragic fate. Given the unhappy ending, the book’s silver lining comes in Chapter 13 (Book 2), when Lily runs into Nettie Struther. Nettie was “one of the girls at Miss Farish’s club” (331). As she tells Lily her story of finding love and purpose, Wharton illuminates many encouraging revelations in Lily’s heart. Perhaps the novel’s zenith comes when Wharton writes, “Lily remembered Nettie’s words: I knew he knew about me. Her husband’s faith in her had made her renewal possible—it is so easy for a woman to become what the man she loves believes her to be!” (339). These words illustrate the unfulfilled nature of Lily and Selden’s love, and the insufficiency of Gerty’s faith in altering Lily’s fate. Dismal indeed, but the satisfaction Lily gains from this epiphany leaves Wharton’s readers with a heartwarming sentiment in the midst of a discontenting conclusion. Perhaps Nettie is meant to be a picture of a happy conclusion for both Lily and Gerty. Without a doubt, however, she was brought into Lily’s life through Gerty Farish, and she has a powerful impact on the novel. This theme of faith is relevant throughout Wharton’s story, and she chooses the humble Gerty Farish to carry the banner from start to finish.

In the end, The House of Mirth is not a novel that tells the story of Miss Gertrude Farish. Often referred to as a novel of manners, the book centers on Lily Bart and the late 19^th century New York City society in which she lives. Edith Wharton, known for her psychological realism, presents a multifaceted depiction of Gerty Farish, but provides no resolution for her character. Gerty truly loves Lily and Selden, always putting them ahead of her own desires without ever receiving appreciation. Indeed Miss Farish’s role is to be a foil character for Wharton’s protagonist, but the author’s thorough exposition suggests her readers can learn from Gerty just as they do Lily. In a story filled with beautiful depictions of human interaction, Edith Wharton’s portrait of Gerty Farish, and her extraordinary friendship, is one of the novel’s greatest takeaways.  

Works Cited

Wharton, Edith. The House of Mirth. Ed. Jeffrey Meyers. New York: Barnes and Noble, 2003.

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A Complete Guide to Franchise Quarterbacks in the NFL: Who they are, who they aren't, and why.

Those familiar with the NFL know the most important position on any team is the quarterback. There is an undefined term that is universally understood within league circles, fans, and media pundits. It is what every team’s front office seeks to find and build their team around: a franchise quarterback.

So who are these franchise quarterbacks? And what makes them different from other “good” quarterbacks? Who are the other “good” quarterbacks? 

Well for starters, a franchise quarterback has to be a guy who can win a Super Bowl. The ultimate goal of every team is essentially to be good enough to compete for a Super Bowl every year, and each year their goal is to win the Super Bowl that season. Pretty simple. With that in mind, if a team’s starting quarterback isn’t good enough to win them a Super Bowl, or isn’t developing into someone who can, then that team needs a new quarterback. If the quarterback is holding the team back from its ultimate goal, that’s a problem, and it needs to be addressed. This is, of course, easier to say than it is to actually evaluate. 

Now, this does not mean winning a Super Bowl is required for a player to be classified as a franchise quarterback. However, in the right year and with the right team, a franchise quarterback is capable of winning the Super Bowl. Ben Roethlisberger, Eli Manning, Russell Wilson, and Joe Flacco are examples of franchise quarterbacks that were able to lead their teams to Super Bowl victories on good teams, though they may not be considered amongst the NFL’s elite quarterbacks.

Elite quarterbacks are inherently franchise quarterbacks, but they are in a class of their own. Currently, the only guys in this category are (in no particular order): Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, Tom Brady, and Aaron Rodgers. These are all names that one could throw into a conversation about the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history and not be looked at as completely insane. While all four of these players have won at least one Super Bowl, that is not necessarily a qualification for being considered an elite quarterback. For example, Peyton Manning and Drew Brees were both elite quarterbacks prior to winning their respective Super Bowls.

Current franchise quarterbacks in the NFL who have not yet won a Super Bowl include: Philip Rivers, Matt Ryan, Tony Romo, Andrew Luck, and Colin Kaepernick. These quarterbacks have played well enough to have their team in competition for the playoffs almost every year. They may never win a Super Bowl, but it’s reasonable to believe they could with the right team around them.

Another classification of NFL quarterbacks that is just a notch below franchise quarterbacks includes “good” quarterbacks who should not presently be viewed on the franchise level. These quarterbacks consistently put up impressive passing numbers and their teams are usually competitive. Examples of “good” quarterbacks include: Matthew Stafford, Andy Dalton, Cam Newton, Alex Smith, Jay Cutler, and, formerly, Matt Schaub (prior to his 2013 season). Any of these players may be capable of elevating themselves to franchise consideration, when they take their game to the next level, but their careers suggest this is unlikely to happen. The ceiling for these quarterbacks’ teams is probably some level of the playoffs. Until one of these quarterbacks raises his level of play to another level, these quarterbacks’ teams will not be Super Bowl contenders. The hope with these players is that they improve with more talent around them, because finding a better quarterback will prove more difficult.

Current NFL quarterbacks below the aforementioned levels are either still developing and/or largely unproven (Jake Locker, Ryan Mallett, Nick Foles, Robert Griffin III, Ryan Tannehill, Kirk Cousins, Geno Smith, E.J. Manuel, Mike Glennon, Blake Bortles, Johnny Manziel, Teddy Bridgewater), or will be replaced in the near future (Josh McCown, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Matt Cassell, Brian Hoyer, Chad Henne). The latter group is coming to be known as “bridge quarterbacks.”

Every quarterback in the National Football League belongs to one of these categories. Given that having a franchise quarterback is essential for winning a Super Bowl, a team’s primary goal should be finding one. In order for that search to prove fruitful, it’s important to know what sets a franchise quarterback apart from his peers. Many look at height, others to arm strength. Lately, experts have suggested an evolution in the game of football requires an athletic quarterback with above average mobility. These things can all contribute to a quarterback’s success in the league, but they are not fundamentally what makes franchise quarterbacks so rare.

Russell Wilson and Drew Brees are less than 6 feet tall. Peyton Manning and Tom Brady have been referred to as statues in the pocket. Yes, they can make all the necessary throws their position requires, but many less successful quarterbacks have stronger arms. What makes these players special is a brilliant football mind. The way they analyze the field, read defenses, and prepare for an opponent is unparalleled by those outside their echelon.

Looking at NFL history, it seems to be consistent that the quarterbacks with the most successful careers are the smartest ones. Big, fast, elusive, strong-armed quarterbacks will always have their appeal to fans, scouts, and independent evaluators, but countless players have let their teams down because they lacked the mind of a franchise quarterback. They may produce great plays, games, or even seasons, but not great careers.

Doug Flutie, Vince Young, Tim Tebow, and Michael Vick have their share of highlights in the league, but their athleticism wasn’t enough to lead their teams to consistent playoff success. Byron Leftwich, Ryan Leaf, JaMarcus Russell, Jeff George, and Josh Freeman are among the dozens of quarterbacks that could “throw the ball through a car wash without it getting wet,” yet failed to carve out a successful NFL career.

Yes, Russell Wilson can run with the best of them and Aaron Rodgers has a cannon; Ben Roethlisberger is called Big Ben for a reason and Joe Flacco stands at 6’6,’’ but these guys understand the game on a different level. Manning, Brees, and Brady aren’t super athletes, but they are super smart, and that’s why they stand above every other quarterback in the league.

Everyone’s trying to find the next great quarterback, yet they keep looking at the wrong things in the evaluation process. Without a doubt, it’s hard to know which collegiate standouts will transition well to the NFL. Even the GMs who have drafted franchise quarterbacks will admit there is no foolproof formula. Knowing to look for smart quarterbacks is a good first step, but knowing which ones are really special has proven to be a defining challenge in NFL history. After all, these guys can change a franchise. 

2014 NFL Preview - NFC

NFC East

Philadelphia: There was a lot of doubt surrounding the Eagles heading into 2013. Would Chip Kelly’s offense translate into success in the NFL? Who was their quarterback? How would the team respond to the Riley Cooper incident? All of those questions were answered in a big way last year, so there’s really only one question for the 2014 Eagles: how much can this team improve? The loss of DeSean Jackson is substantial, but Jeremy Maclin will be back. Additionally, the newly acquired Darren Sproles seems like an ideal fit for Kelly’s up-tempo, spread offense. The team also added receivers Jordan Matthews and Josh Huff in the draft, and recently traded for running back Kenjon Barner, so Kelly will have plenty of speed again on the offense side of the ball. Not to mention the return of the NFL’s leading rusher and highest rated passer, LeSean McCoy and Nick Foles. On the defensive side of the ball, Philly added safety Malcolm Jenkins in free agency and drafted defensive end Marcus Smith from Louisville. Smith is expected to play outside linebacker in the Eagles 3-4 defense.

Prediction: Let’s not dismiss the reality that the NFC East was uncharacteristically poor in 2013 and the Eagles took advantage. While the rest of the division should be better than they were last year, none of them seem to be in a position to challenge Philadelphia for the division crown. I think the defensive additions will help, and with another year in Chip Kelly’s offense, the Eagles will make it back-to-back division championships.

New York: It felt like the Giants were among the league’s worst teams last year, because they got off to such a terrible start (0-6). They definitely weren’t a good team, but the perception around New York was worse than their actual performance on the field. Despite being the coordinator for two offenses that won the Super Bowl, it was finally time to move on from Kevin Gilbride. Ben McAdoo is the latest offensive mind poached from Green Bay. He’ll be tasked with getting Eli Manning back on track, as well as putting together a competitive offensive line to support Manning and the running game. Rashad Jennings was signed away from Oakland and should become the feature back in McAdoo’s offense. First round draft pick Odell Beckham Jr. has the talent to contribute immediately at wide receiver. He and fellow former LSU receiver Rueben Randle will have to replace Hakeem Nicks production. Perry Fewell is an excellent defensive coordinator and should be able to improve an already strong defensive core with the additions of Robert Ayers, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, and Walter Thurmond.

Prediction: The Giants were much better than they looked last year, and they should be even better this season. They won 7 of their last 10, so they’re certainly capable of consistently winning games. I think all the improvements and new faces will give them two more wins, landing the G-Men at 9-7 come season’s end.

Dallas: America’s team seems to have the same story year after year. Weeks of dominance, weeks of utter incompetence, and ultimately an early end to their season. Throughout the season, they compete for the division, but seemingly never claim the top spot after week 17. And with all the other strong NFC divisions, wild card sports are hard to come by in recent years. To sum up the Cowboys in a word with which their fans are all too familiar, mediocrity. Tony Romo takes too much of the blame for a team with an awful defense. Rod Marinelli will be the latest big name coach to take over this struggling unit. There weren’t many big name offensive or defensive additions. Henry Melton is coming off an ACL tear, but was having a great year for the Bears last year before the injury. Zack Martin, the man taken instead of Johnny Manziel, looks like a day 1 starter at guard. At some point this offensive line has to be good again with all the draft picks they’ve invested in it. Demarcus Ware left for greener pastures in Denver, while another season ending injury for Sean Lee is a massive blow. The secondary has some big names (Claiborne, Carr), but they have been a disappointment so far.

Prediction: The Cowboys have had an uncharacteristically quiet offseason, because they haven’t brought in many big names on either side of the ball. With so little turnover, it’s hard to predict significant improvement for America’s team in 2014. The offensive line should be good, and they still have weapons on offense (Witten, Bryant, Murray) and Tony Romo; a great quarterback will always keep you competitive in this league. Unfortunately I just don’t think it’ll be competitive enough to win the division. Dallas goes 9-7.

Washington: There has been a lot of Redskins talk this offseason, but most of it has been about the team name, not on field projections. Washington played so poorly last season that it’s hard to believe they were an overriding favorite to win the division following an amazing rookie season from Robert Griffin III. Expectations are much lower this year, but they made a splash hiring Jay Gruden from Cincinnati. Most know him because he is John Gruden’s brother, but anyone who watched Hard Knocks last August is probably a believer in Jay Gruden and new Vikings head coach Mike Zimmer. The good news for Redskins fans is that if RGIII can become a franchise QB, Gruden will get it out of him. If he’s not, well that’s bad news for Gruden and the fans, and neither of them are to blame. The team’s biggest offseason signing was easily DeSean Jackson, who reminded the NFL he’s a top 15 wide receiver with his amazing season last year. If Ryan Clark has anything left in the tank, he could help out a secondary that struggled mightily in 2013. He’ll also have to help compensate for the triple digit tackles London Fletcher put up seemingly every year in Washington. Fletcher’s leadership and production will be greatly missed.

Prediction: Like most NFL teams, this Redskins team will go as far as their QB can take them. RGIII led them to a division title his rookie year, but took a big step backwards last year. There are reports that he has been dividing the locker room with both his personality and poor play. I don’t know how true those rumors are, but Griffin has to bounce back in a big way in 2014. Personally, I don’t see it happening. I like Gruden and the weapons on offense, but the defense is still bad and I just don’t see RGIII getting back to elite. Washington will be better than 3-13 this year, but not much.

Predicted Division Standings:

1) Philadelphia (10-6)

2) New York (9-7)

3) Dallas (9-7)

4) Washington (5-11)

NFC North

Green Bay: It’s hard to believe the Packers found a way to make the playoffs last year despite being without Aaron Rodgers and Clay Matthews for much of the season. They did so with an unimpressive (depending on how you look at it) 8-7-1 record. Eddie Lacy was the breakout player of 2013 as he gave the Pack a physical running game for the first time in years. Combining Lacy with Rodgers and the always-prolific passing game should give Green Bay an unstoppable offense. But that’s never been the problem with the Packers. Since winning the Super Bowl, the defense has been what’s kept them from winning another one. That, and the San Francisco 49ers. Julius Peppers was their big name acquisition in free agency, but it remains to be seen how much he can bring to the table at 34. A healthy Clay Matthews will be the biggest help to this defense, while rookie safety Ha Ha Clinton-Dix could play early. If the defense can hold up and keep Rogers on the field, this team can compete with the NFC’s best.

Prediction: In the NFL, anytime you have an elite quarterback, you have the potential to be an elite team. It’s not a guarantee, you have to give him help and have a good coach, but the QB changes everything. That’s why I see Green Bay winning the division again. I love Cutler and Stafford, but they’re not on the Aaron Rodgers level. With a balanced offense and a solid defense, the Packers finish 12-4 and claim the #2 seed behind Seattle.

Chicago: The Bears are almost a carbon copy of the Packers, possessing the same strengths yet bearing the same weaknesses. Chicago has a terrifying offense. Jay Cutler has his flaws, but his new contract goes to show you he’s no scrub. He also has arguably the most talent around him of any quarterback in the league. Last offseason the Bears rebuilt his offensive line in a big way, while he’s still handing off to Matt Forte and throwing to Brandon Marshall, Alshon Jeffery, and Martellus Bennett. This offseason, the rebuilding focus has been on the Chicago defense. The team signed defensive ends Lamarr Houston and Jared Allen and drafted Virginia Tech cornerback Kyle Fuller with their first round pick. All three players should be instant upgrades, but unfortunately there are still holes at linebacker and safety. Marc Trestman seems like a good head coach, but he’ll need to prove it this year by finishing better than 8-8.

Prediction: First place in the NFC North might come down to which team has the best defense (excluding Minnesota), because Detroit, Green Bay, and Chicago all have high-powered offenses. Like Tony Romo, Cutler gets a lot of flak for his team’s shortcomings, but the Bears did not field a playoff caliber defense in 2013. They made some nice additions, but the middle of the unit is still below average. Even with 10 wins, it will be hard for Chicago to lock up a wild card spot in the loaded NFC. They win the tie breaker with Atlanta and land the #6 seed.

Detroit: The Jim Schwartz era finally came to its inevitably disappointing end, after the Lions missed the playoffs yet again. While the jury is still out on how good of a coach Jim Caldwell really is, Detroit should at least look like a different team in 2014. Fans have to hope Caldwell can get the best out of the still promising, yet unceasingly frustrating, Matthew Stafford. Calvin Johnson is still the best wide receiver in football and Reggie Bush is still a dynamic running back, but the Lions added even more playmakers this offseason. Rather than addressing the secondary, the Lions signed wide receiver Golden Tate away from the Seahawks and drafted North Carolina tight end Eric Ebron in the first round of the draft. Building around your franchise quarterback is a good idea, but neglecting the glaring defensive needs is not. The front four remains the Lions’ defensive calling card, but a weak secondary doesn’t bode well when Jay Cutler and Aaron Rodgers are in your division.

Prediction: I think the Lions will be a more disciplined, much-improved team in 2014. Stafford will be better with more weapons and an offensive-minded coach. Unfortunately, I don’t see quite enough improvement to warrant a playoff prediction. They’re in a tough division and a tough conference, so I think both the division and wild card will be out of reach for Detroit. As they have been in recent years, the Lions will be fun to watch, but not quite strong enough to win more than 9 games.

Minnesota: After 3 disappointing years, the Vikings are finally closing the book on the Christian Ponder era. Entering his third season as GM, Rick Spielman spent a first round pick on quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. The team also fired head coach Leslie Frazier and replaced him with another established defensive coordinator, Mike Zimmer. To run the offense, Zimmer hired quarterback guru Norv Turner. Journeyman Matt Cassel will begin the season as the Vikings starter, but Bridgewater is expected to take over whenever the coaches realize Cassel isn’t taking this team to the playoffs. Regardless of who starts for Minnesota, he’ll be handing the ball off to the NFL’s best running back, Adrian Peterson. Before Bridgewater, the Vikings took UCLA linebacker Anthony Barr with the 11^th overall pick. He’ll be a part of a young nucleus on defense that includes Harrison Smith, Sharif Floyd, Xavier Rhodes, Josh Robinson, and Everson Griffin. The Vikings have developing talent on offense as well, including second year receiver Cordarelle Patterson, it all just depends on how quickly Mike Zimmer and his staff can turn that talent into a winning football team.

Prediction: I love the Zimmer hire for Minnesota, but this team’s success rests on their second first round pick. Teddy Bridgewater was supposed to be a top five pick, but lots of questions arose during his draft evaluation. However, there’s no question Matt Cassel isn’t taking the Vikings to the playoffs, so the rookie will get a chance to prove himself this season. Since Bridgewater couldn’t win the job in training camp, I don’t see him having an Andrew Luck type of rookie season. There’s rising talent on the roster, but Minnesota is in rebuild mode and it will be obvious in the win column.

Predicted Division Standings:

1) Green Bay (12-4)

2) Chicago (10-6)

3) Detroit (9-7)

4) Minnesota (3-13)

NFC South

New Orleans: Other than the Broncos, no team in the NFL had a louder offseason than the Saints. Jimmy Graham finally agreed to a contract extension, after he being told he’s not a receiver. While the team lost key contributors Darren Sproles, Malcolm Jenkins, Roman Harper, and Lance Moore, their replacements are all expected to be upgrades. Free safety Jairus Byrd was one of the biggest free agent acquisitions. He’ll start alongside promising second year strong safety Kenny Vaccaro. The two should be a dynamic pair, as they’ll headline a secondary that is thin at cornerback. Sproles’ release was surprising, but first round pick Brandin Cooks looks like a perfect fit for Sean Peyton’s offense. Mark Ingram, Pierre Thomas, and Khiry Robinson will rotate at running back, and Drew Brees remains the lynchpin in Saints’ high-powered passing game. The real test for New Orleans will be proving they can win on the road, or winning enough games to ensure they don’t have to, come January.

Prediction: The Saints added some big names on both sides of the ball, and I think they’ll yield immediate results. Rob Ryan had a great first year as defensive coordinator and he’ll get the most out of a unit that lacks strength at cornerback and linebacker. Offensively, they’ll be right up there with Denver for best in the league. The NFC East always provides stiff competition, and this year will be no different, but the Saints will still find themselves back on top when the regular season ends.

Atlanta: Last year was a disaster for the Falcons. Seemingly, everything that could go wrong did go wrong. The end result was a 4-12 record, just one year removed from a trip to the NFC championship. While they were plummeting, the Carolina Panthers rose up to claim first place in the division. Once the season ended, however, GM Thomas Dimitroff went right to work plugging holes across the offensive and defensive lines. In free agency, Atlanta signed defensive tackle Paul Solai, defensive end Tyson Jackson, and guard Jon Asamoah. With their first round pick the dirty birds took offensive tackle Jake Matthews, who looks the part of a franchise left tackle. He’ll start there week 1, following Sam Baker’s injury. Kroy Biermann’s return should bring a much-needed boost in both pass rush and leadership, while Matt Ryan will be happy to see Julio Jones back in the starting lineup. Steven Jackson has had injury issues since he signed with the Falcons, but Jaquizz Rodgers and Devonta Freeman are ready to step in if he’s not able to stay on the field.

Prediction: The only reason I think Atlanta finishes ahead of the Panthers is because of Matt Ryan and his dynamic wideouts. Cam Newton might have a higher ceiling than Matty Ice, but there’s no question his receivers are worse. I don’t believe this defense is elite, but with the promising rookie seasons from cornerbacks Desmond Trufant and Robert Alford, I think they’ll do enough to help the Falcons win 10 games. That may or may not be enough to make the playoffs in the NFC (see Arizona last year), as it is I have them losing a tiebreaker to the Bears.

Carolina: The most important position on offense is quarterback and the most important position on defense is middle linebacker. Once Carolina found franchise players for both spots, it was easy to fall in love with this team’s potential. However, no one expected them to put it together last year. With Cam Newton and Luke Keuchly, the Panthers should have a very high ceiling going forward. While the defense should be great again, 2014 presents several major challenges for Newton and Offensive Coordinator Mike Shula. There are question marks all across the offensive line and even fewer answers at receiver. First round pick Kelvin Benjamin will need to have a big rookie season, because no other receiver on the roster has big play capability. Greg Olsen will probably become Cam’s new top target, with Steve Smith’s departure. The defensive front seven is among the best in the league, but the secondary will miss Captain Munnerlyn. Roman Harper has had some good years in New Orleans, but it remains to be seen what he’ll bring to the Panthers.

Prediction: This team quietly finished 12-4 last year, so improvement will be near impossible within such a difficult division. With a franchise quarterback and a strong defense, there’s always reason for playoff expectations. Carolina was no fraud last year, but I do think they overachieved. If they can continue to win close games, they’ll contend for the division again, but I see them finishing 9-7 in 2014.

 

Tampa Bay: All three teams in the NFC East that finished behind Carolina were not content to stand pat this offseason. As previously discussed, New Orleans and Atlanta both made a splash in free agency and the draft. Division bottom feeders (lately) Tampa Bay also made major changes. They cleaned house at the top, firing GM Mark Dominik and head coach Greg Schiano. Jason Licht and Lovie Smith will replace them, respectively. They went to work right away bringing in upgrades on offense and defense that fit in with the new regime. Josh McCown is a game manager and should protect the football. He’ll have the luxury of throwing to Vincent Jackson and rookie wide receiver Mike Evans. The offensive line added Evan Dietrich-Smith, Anthony Collins, and Logan Mankins to provide McCown some time to throw and running lanes for Doug Martin. Though the team cut Darelle Revis, they signed Alterraun Verner and defensive end Michael Johnson. Under Lovie and new coordinator Leslie Frazier, this defense can be special. The Bucs playoff hopes rest on McCown and the offense.

Prediction: That last sentence is why it’s hard to buy the Bucs as a playoff team in 2014. They will be much better— a balanced, physical team. No team will want to play Tampa Bay this year, but in a loaded division, I can’t see McCown leading this team to double digit wins, which will be necessary for making the playoffs in the NFC. Despite the losing record, the Bucs will be a strong 7-9 team.

Predicted Division Standings:

1) New Orleans (12-4)

2) Atlanta (10-6)

3) Carolina (9-7)

4) Tampa Bay (7-9)

NFC West

Seattle: Has there been a Super Bowl team in recent memory to get more love from the media than this Seahawks team?  I suppose that’s warranted when you shut down Peyton Manning and the Broncos in dominant fashion. Seattle certainly has all the makings of a great franchise going forward. General Manager John Schneider is able to find valuable depth in later rounds of the draft and press all the right buttons in free agency. Head coach Pete Carroll has always been a great leader and knows how to build a dominant team. They have a franchise quarterback, a strong running game and dominant defense. Not to mention the best home field advantage in the NFL. While the Seahawks didn’t add any immediate contributors through the draft or free agency, they didn’t lose too much either. Golden Tate, Chris Clemons, and Red Bryant are gone, but the front office is making sure they keep their core intact. Pro Bowlers Richard Sherman and Earl Thomas recently got long term extensions, while Russell Wilson has a big one waiting for him after this season. Most teams look forward to all the changes an offseason brings, but Seattle fans shouldn’t expect a much different team in 2014. That’s great news for the champs.

Prediction: I feel like this team is overhyped, so I keep trying to find a reason why they will disappoint and I just can’t do it. The hype is a little over the top, but Seattle has no holes on their roster. They’re not perfect, but they’re the most complete team in the NFL. While I’m not drinking the Kool-Aid, I do agree with the people pouring it. It’s hard to picture them being anything less than a 10-win team. I see them winning 14 games.

San Francisco: Expect to see the 49ers and the Seahawks at the top of this division for the foreseeable future. It’ll be tough to keep either team out of the playoffs each year with great quarterback play, a strong running game, and a dominant defense. The 49ers may have been doing it a few years longer than the ‘hawks, but Seattle is showing they might be doing it just a little bit better. After all they won the ring that has been so elusive for Jim Harbaugh’s squad. San Francisco has had a lot of negative storylines this offseason, but don’t expect this team to drop off on the field. Stevie Johnson is yet another weapon for Colin Kaepernick, while Carlos Hyde could be the next Frank Gore. They’ll miss Aldon Smith (9 game suspension) and Navarro Bowman (injury), but Antoine Bethea shouldn’t be much of a drop off from Donte Whitner. With the losses on defense, young players Jimmie Ward, Tank Carradine, and Ian Williams could have opportunities to establish themselves on an elite defense.

Prediction: There has been a lot of speculation about Jim Harbaugh’s future in San Francisco, and the reports sound pretty serious, but the front office seems pretty smart. They have to know how essential Harbaugh is to this team’s success. I don’t think they’ll let him go anywhere. That being said, I think this team will be good again in 2014. They’re probably finishing second to Seattle again, but they’re significantly better than St. Louis and Arizona. 11-5 will get them a wild card spot and back to the playoffs, where they are always dangerous.

Arizona: It’s too bad the Cardinals have to play in the same division as the defending Super Bowl champs and the team that could’ve won the Super Bowl two years ago. This was a talented, well-coached team in 2013. Patrick Peterson is a top 5 cornerback and got rewarded for his production with a lucrative extension this offseason. Fellow LSU cornerback Tyrann Mathieu played very well at free safety last year, but he’s coming off a knee injury. Deone Bucannon was the Cards’ first round pick and he’ll likely start immediately at strong safety. Antonio Cromartie is a big name signing at cornerback, but it’s unclear if he’s still a reliable cornerback at 30. The front seven will greatly miss Darnell Dockett (injury), Daryl Washington (suspension), and Karlos Dansby (free agency). Offensively, Carson Palmer showed he’s still got some juice left in his arm, but 10 wins wasn’t enough to get him and the Cards back into the playoffs. Jared Veldheer comes over from Oakland to protect Palmer’s blind side, and 2013 first round pick Jonathan Cooper should start at guard after missing last year with a broken leg. Larry Fitzgerald is still playing at a high level and now that Michael Floyd is playing like a first round pick, this offense could be dangerous.

Prediction: It’s hard to ignore what the Cardinals were able to do last year, but I’m just not a Carson Palmer believer. The story of his career is disappointing, but solid. Even if he stays healthy I just can’t see this team winning 10 games again. They made some improvements this offseason, but it won’t be enough in the loaded NFC west.

St. Louis: There were whispers of the Rams being a dark horse Super Bowl candidate this year. Those whispers have been silenced after Sam Bradford’s ACL surgery was announced. If any of the quarterback in this draft class pan out, it’s going to be brutal year for Rams fans. This team is loaded with talent. They upgraded the offensive and defensive line and most of their team is getting better. Kenny Britt looked poised for a comeback season, and Tavon Austin will probably get more touches in year two, but all for naught. Without a quarterback, none of it works, as the Rams found out last season. The good news for St. Louis is that they’re a good quarterback away from being a contender. The bad news is that quarterback may not be on their roster. More frustration awaits the Rams in 2014.

Prediction: I feel bad for Jeff Fisher. He came to St. Louis because of Sam Bradford, and he’s basically hasn’t had Bradford. I feel even worse for Bradford. The guy has paid his injury dues and can’t catch a break. He’s the new Chad Pennington and the opposite of Brett Favre. With him, I think this team competes for the division. Without him, they’ll repeat last season. You gotta feel for Rams fans. We’ll see what the future holds for both Bradford and Fisher as they’ll both watch their team finish under .500.

Predicted Division Standings:

1) Seattle (14-2)

2) San Francisco (11-5)

3) Arizona (8-8)

4) St. Louis (4-12)