The first line sums up their previous seasons, while the second looks at their upcoming campaign. A bonus pre-season prediction of the four teams that will feature in the playoffs.
ATK
Been the league's heavyweights, but last season needs erasing fast.
Under Coppell, expect more discipline, but who will fetch goals?
Bengaluru FC
Best for most part on debut, before slipping in final.
The nucleus remaining the same, can they maintain standard throughout?
Chennaiyin FC
The best core of Indian players, two titles no surprise.
As AFC Cup will stretch squad, away form holds key.
Delhi Dynamos
Good attack under Carlos and Zambrotta, but poor job rebuilding.
If any team needs foreigners to lead, it is them.
FC Goa
Despite an entertaining style of play, title still eludes them.
Goals will flow, but Kattimani needs to mind the gap.
Jamshedpur FC
If they had goals, debut season could have been memorable.
Defence looks good but can Cahill carry the attack alone?
Kerala Blasters
Sheer blood and guts have helped them reach two finals.
Fans sure to will them on, but squad lacks depth.
Mumbai City FC
Best two years under Guimaraes, including only playoffs in 2016.
Under new coach Costa, squad looks solid defensively, sparse elsewhere.
NorthEast United FC
Underachievers in the league, only team never to make playoffs.
Frequent breaks in the schedule could help them regroup, perform.
FC Pune City
Some of the best squads, but only one playoff finish.
With Hume joining Marcelinho and Alfaro, attack is best defence.
ESPN's picks for four playoff places - FC Pune City, Bengaluru FC, Chennaiyin FC, ATK.