Seven NFL title hopefuls already in deep holes

Colts, Jags, Packers, Vikings, Eagles, Chargers Seahawks all struggling The Indianapolis Colts were handed a game by the Houston Texans on Sunday. It was a much-needed win, but it may not matter. Just five weeks into the 2008 season, the 2006 champs are in trouble. It’s not just their 2-2 record that leaves them 2½ games behind unbeaten Tennessee in the AFC South, but the way they are playing: badly. They’re not alone. Six other teams that began the season with high hopes are already in deep holes: San Diego and Jacksonville in the AFC; Seattle, Philadelphia, Green Bay and Minnesota in the NFC, with the Vikings (1-3) playing in New Orleans on Monday night. Some are using the “it’s early” theme, pointing to the New York Giants’ climb from an 0-2 start to a title last season. But every season is different, and it’s unwise to... [read full story]