It was pretty clear that DiMatteo decided that trying to win the FA Cup and the Champion's League was more reasonable than trying to claw their way back into the EPL fight. I'd not look forward to playing them in any competition right now -- Torres looks to be in form and Hazard has been a smashing transfer success so far. Defense is a little suspect, but they haven't played any back-to-the-wall games yet to see if they can repeat last year's defensive performances.
Yeah, I would say Chelsea is the team to beat...Arsenal can’t score, City’s defense is suspect, United may drop too many points early to be able to catch up, and Liverpool is a year or two away from seriously contending again.
And as I alluded, watch out for Everton, they have looked fantastic so far, Fellaini has been a beast.