Flareon

Flareon's most prominent trait is its high Attack, giving it the strongest Flare Blitz in the tier. However, this is much less scary than it sounds, as NU is home to some of the physically bulkiest Fire-resistant Pokemon in the game, such as Rhydon, Carracosta, Quagsire, and Regirock. Moreover, Flareon has some glaring issues holding it back, namely its mediocre Speed, low physical bulk, and susceptibility to entry hazards. These traits not only make Flareon prone to getting forced out but also give it a hard time entering the battle healthy; this is not helped by Flareon's constant use of Flare Blitz combined with its modest HP stat wearing it down even more quickly. Flareon is also strapped for coverage options, having only Superpower as its alternative attack against most Pokemon that resist Fire. While it's not awful coverage, it is very lackluster when considering what most other Fire-types have to offer.

Most notably, Flareon's primary issue is fierce competition with its Fire-type brethren. Flareon may have good Special Defense, but Assault Vest Magmortar performs the same role in checking most specially offensive threats while possessing better Speed, superior coverage, and an immunity to sleep moves such as Sleep Powder and Lovely Kiss. Pyroar and Ninetales also give Flareon significant competition, with the former boasting much higher base Speed and a secondary STAB move, and the latter, while it is much weaker unboosted, it has access to a boosting move and nearly perfect coverage. Between its natural downfalls and harsh competition with fellow Fire-types, Flareon very rarely warrants a spot on serious teams.