Sunday, August 24 2008 -- Teams in the AFC South have shown improvement. If they can mend before too long, the Indianapolis Colts are expected to win the division title. But don't automatically exclude the Jacksonville Jaguars or the Tennessee Titans. Even the lowly Houston Texans may have a shot.

Indianapolis Colts

The Indianapolis Colts are one of the best all-around clubs in the NFL, but preseason injuries have made them vulnerable. The status of Peyton Manning is up in the air as far as opening day goes. Most of the team has stayed intact. TE Dallas Clark is one of the finest at his position. They've won the AFC South five years running; this could be the sixth.

Jacksonville Jaguars

If they want to take the AFC South, the Jacksonville Jaguars will have to finally beat the Colts. The Jags are better than ever and have a shot. They've secured some good pass rushers through the 2008 draft and their air attack should be sound.

Tennessee Titans

If QB Vince Young can command the offense, this team will win. The problem for the Tennessee Titans is that coach Jeff Fisher does not have enough pass catchers on hand. The ground attack, which includes Young's ability to run, is sound.

Houston Texans

For the Houston Texans the addition of free agent Curtis Brown and draft pick Steve Slaton to the ground unit signals a major improvement. But the addition of Brown and Slaton and other upgrades will not get them to the playoffs. A winning record, the first for this team, would be a major accomplishment and is a possibility in 2008.

Final Analysis

So, who's left standing in the AFC South? It's the team that can beat up on the other division rivals. Indy is always in the running and this year the Jags have a sound shot too.

2008 Finish and Record

1) Indianapolis Colts (11-5)
2) Jacksonville Jaguars (10-6)
3) Tennessee Titans (9-7)
4) Houston Texans (8-8)