2012 NFL Playoffs - Road to Super Bowl XLVII - Conference Championships

WOW!! Now that was some "good football"!!!! Last weekend's exciting Divisional Round more than made up for the boring slate of Wild Card Weekend games. High drama in the Seahawks vs. Falcons game kept us on our seats until the very last second. And the Ravens vs. Broncos game had so many twists and turns that it took two overtimes to settle. We are now down to the Final Four: Conference Championship Weekend. Three of the four teams return to the conference finals from last year (Patriots, Ravens, 49ers).  The winners will head to New Orleans to play for the coveted Lombardi trophy.

AFC CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP

 

 

Baltimore Ravens vs. New England Patriots (- 8)

The AFC Conference Championship game is a rematch from last year's matchup. The Ravens return to the scene of where their season came to a very disappointing end last year, Gillette Stadium in Foxboro. On their final drive in that game, Baltimore had a chance to beat, and then at the very least, tie the Patriots but a dropped TD pass and a missed chippy field goal sent them home. The Ravens did beat the Patriots earlier this season 31 - 30 at home, but this is definitely the game that they want as their "revenge game". The Patriots are cruising into this matchup after soundly defeating the Texans last week. Although they lost their dynamic TE Rob Gronkowski early in the game (and for the rest of the playoffs), the Pats offense still clicked pretty well. With a good balance of run and pass it is expected that New England will take advantage of a "tired" Ravens defense. I've been hearing all week about how many snaps the Ravens' defense has taken, particularly in the double OT game that they won over the Broncos last week. Baltimore showed a lot of heart in that game and although their defense wasn't stellar, they made plays when they had to. The Ravens' D only gave up 3 of the 5 touchdowns scored by the Broncos (2 of them were made on special teams). The defense also intercepted Peyton Manning twice: one for a "Pick 6" in the first half and one in double OT that set up the game winning field goal. One thing that Denver did offensively that was positive against the Ravens was the "no huddle" offense. For some reason the Broncos went away from it late in the game after having a lot of success with it. I expect QB Tom Brady and the Patriots to do a lot of "no huddle" and even without Gronkowski, they still have a lot of other weapons who can execute. Baltimore's offense must be feeling pretty confident too after having success on the ground and in the air last week. I think another game plan of feeding Ray Rice the ball and Joe Flacco going deep to Torrey Smith and Anquan Boldin on play action will serve Baltimore well. They certainly can take advantage of the Pats defense. I think this game is going to be high scoring and close. The Ravens exact AFC Championship revenge on the Patriots and take the Mr. Ray Lewis retirement tour to the Super Bowl. They will obviously cover the points with the win.

NFC CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP

 

 

San Francisco 49ers vs. Atlanta Falcons (+4)

The Falcons finally "got the monkey off of their back" when they defeated the Seahawks in the Divisional Round. They were a determined unit and I think it showed by their play on the field. Despite that, they still almost lost the game and they probably would have if it were not for some rare coaching errors by Seattle. As a matter of fact, the Seahawks took the lead with less than a minute to go in the game. But the Falcons did an excellent job led by QB Matt Ryan to get the ball, drive down the field and get into field goal range. K Matt Bryant connected on a 49 yard FG to seal the comeback victory for Atlanta and save them from what would have been increased media scrutiny about their playoff failures. The 49ers had a little drama of their own in the Divisional Round but it was early in the game. A "Pick 6" thrown by QB Colin Kaepernick on the team's opening drive made some folks wonder whether he would be able to handle the playoff pressure. Kaepernick quickly responded by taking the 49ers on their following possession straight down the field on a drive that was capped by a 20 yd touchdown run by the QB. Though Aaron Rodgers and the Packers tangled with San Fran through the first two quarters (they were only down 3 at halftime), Kaepernick and the 49ers imposed their will on them in the second half. The Niners pulled away by scoring 21 unanswered points. Even though the Packers scored a late TD to make it a little close, the game was essentially a blow out. Kaepernick was outstanding, passing for 263 yards (2 TDs) and rushing for 181 yards (2 TDs). When he travels east to face the Falcons, he'll need to bring a little of that great balance with him. Atlanta's defense is good and opportunistic but I feel the 49ers will have the ability to move the ball on them. The Falcons must really feel disrespected being that they are the number 1 seed in the NFC, hosting this championship game but are still underdogs. Ryan & the offense I think will be able to make some plays but not enough against the 49ers stingy D. I don't think Atlanta will be able to run the ball on the 49ers the way they did against Seattle last week. I think the 49ers pass rush will be more effective as well. San Francisco, like Baltimore, had the conference championship slip through their hands last year. This year they will not let that happen. Niners beat the Falcons for the right to represent the NFC in the Super Bowl and they will cover the points.

Well the way I see it, Super Bowl XLVII will be a "family affair". Brothers John Harbaugh (Head Coach of the Ravens) and Jim Harbaugh (Head Coach of the 49ers) will bring pride to their family name and garner a ton of attention on the fact that they are siblings. It should make for a great Super Bowl matchup - but the Patriots and Falcons will be in no mood to help facilitate a Harbaugh family reunion in New Orleans.



2012 NFL Playoffs - Road to Super Bowl XLVII - Divisional Round

We are now down to the Elite Eight (the Divisional Round) in the NFL Playoffs and let us all hope that the games are better this weekend than they were last weekend. Outside of the Seattle Seahawks vs Washington Redskins game, Wild Card Weekend was a bit of a "Bore Fest". With a trip to the Conference Championships on the line and the inclusion of the top seeded teams, I think we will see more competitive and exciting games.

AFC DIVISIONAL MATCHUPS

 

Baltimore Ravens vs. Denver Broncos (- 9.5)

The Ravens (#4 seed) are riding into Denver high off of their emotional victory over the Indianapolis Colts. Though they didn't look their best, the Ravens still kept the Colts in check. Ravens RB Ray Rice uncharacteristically fumbled twice, something he just can not afford to do against the Broncos (#1 seed). Denver, who has been riding high in the "Mile High" themselves, come off of a bye and 11 straight victories. During that streak, led by MVP candidate QB Peyton Manning, the Broncos have won by at least a touchdown in each contest and has scored an average of 31 points a game. That spells trouble for the Ravens' defense which has been porous this season. Cold temperatures and an emotional lift surrounding the impending retirement of LB Ray Lewis may help the Ravens' defense but I think that Baltimore will need to run the ball a lot (and execute their short passing game) to limit Mr. Manning's touches. QB Joe Flacco & Co. had better take their sweet time out there on offense, unless of course, they are down quickly. When the Ravens' offense is right, it can have explosive games with Flacco. Also, this squad is a road playoff, battle tested team. But I don't think it's wise for them to get into a shootout with Denver. Besides, the Broncos defense is one of the most underrated in the NFL. The divisional round is hard to predict at times because of the teams coming off a bye and it's possible the week off my derail the Broncos stride. But I don't think the bye, the Lewis factor or anything else will get in Denver's way. The Broncos end the Ravens' season and Ray Lewis' career but they will not cover the 9.5.

 

Houston Texans vs. New England Patriots (-9.5)

The Texans (#3 seed) roll into Foxboro off of their Wild Card Round win over the Cincinnati Bengals. The Texans did what they had to do to win that game but they weren't impressive at all. Houston is a talented team but something has gone awry with them starting with the Week 14 beatdown they endured at the hands of the Patriots (#2 seed). The Pats undressed the Texans on Monday Night Football, yet another high stakes nationally televised game that they wilted. That game prompted me to give them the nickname "SNL" for Saturday Night Live. SNL's original cast members were once known to be the "Not Ready For Primetime Players".  SNL has a chance to begin to ditch that nickname with a "revenge" win against the Patriots. Like Baltimore, Houston should rely on their run and short pass game to eat clock on offense. The less time New England QB Tom Brady has with the ball, the better for the Texans. Also I thought the Bengals ran successfully against Houston but didn't stick with it for some reason. I doubt Patriots' head coach Bill Belichick will let that opportunity/advantage slip away. Like the Ravens, when the Texans offense is clicking they can be very dangerous. But their switch seems to be "off" and I can't see how they will flip it "on" in New England. The Patriots have been vulnerable at home in the playoffs in recent years but I don't see them losing this week. "Live from New England, it's Saturday Night!" and the Not Ready For Primetime Players will hit the stage (even though it's actually Sunday). The Patriots will run RB Stevan Ridley wild and open up the play action to hit their talented receiving/tight end ensemble down field. Patriots win and cover.

 

 

NFC DIVISIONAL MATCHUPS

 

 

 

Green Bay Packers vs. San Francisco 49ers (-3)

The Packers (#3 seed) come into this game against the 49ers (#2 seed) after dusting off the Minnesota Vikings (who played their 2nd string QB due to Christian Ponder's injured arm) last week. The "backup" quarterback they will be facing this week though will be a little more prepared than Vikings QB Joe Webb was last week. Unlike Webb, 49ers QB Colin Kaepernick has taken several snaps this season. In fact Kaepernick isn't really the backup QB anymore; he has started the last eight games of the season for San Fran. Though he has had some struggles, Kaepernick has also looked quite dynamic at times. The 49ers have averaged 26 points a game since Kaepernick replaced Alex Smith behind center. The offense still relies on a steady run game with RB Frank Gore but has now opened up the downfield threat with WR Michael Crabtree. The Packers pass offense is as dangerous as ever with QB Aaron Rodgers leading the way. But the name of this game I think will be defense and the 49ers have one of the best units in the NFL. San Francisco's defense is stout; they play mean and they tackle well. If they get the Packers into a one dimensional passing offense, Green Bay could be in for a long day. Ultimately, I do think the 49ers defense will neutralize the Packers offense. The Packers defense will have to deal with that balanced Niners offense and I think San Fran will have some opportunities to score some points against them. This game could be close but it has the makings of getting ugly too. Niners rush into the NFC Championship game by sending home the Pack and they cover too.

 

Seatlle Seahawks vs. Atlanta Falcons (-2.5)

The Seahawks (#5 seed) fly into Atlanta soaring after their defeat of RGIII and the Washington Redskins in the Wild Card Round. Seattle has become the so called "sexy pick" of a lot of prognosticators to win the Super Bowl because of their tough defense, excellent run game and the unflinching leadership of rookie QB Russell Wilson. Wilson was the only rookie QB to survive Wild Card Weekend. But he and the "Hawks will face a Falcons (#1 seed) team who has a LOT to prove. Atlanta's quick exits out of the playoffs the last 3 years has placed doubts in the minds of scores of folks outside of the 404/770 area code. Despite their 13 - 3 record and home field advantage, many people expect the Falcons to nose dive again in these playoffs. I have to admit that I am one of those people. I took a chance on the Falcons last year and picked them to win Wild Card Weekend even though they had to go on the road to play the New York Giants. They flew north and laid an egg. I'm not jumping with them this time around. This team has good talent on both sides of the ball. Roddy White and Julio Jones are arguably the best wide receiver duo in the NFL. Out on routes with them is future Hall of Fame TE Tony Gonzalez. RB Michael Turner has seen his touches drop over the last couple of years but is still capable of getting the job done. QB Matt Ryan is a good quarterback but is he your championship QB? You rarely hear his nickname "Matty Ice" any more....... On defense, the Falcons also have some really good players like Sean Weatherspoon, John Abraham, Asante Samuel and Thomas DeCoud. But for some reason come playoff time, it doesn't happen for the "Dirty Birds". After seeing how the Carolina Panthers handled the Falcons this year, (they split games but the Panthers should have won the game in Atlanta early in the season) I think the Seahawks can beat them. Although Wilson is not exactly like Cam Newton, their attributes are similar. With the help of RB Marshawn Lynch, Wilson should be able to find some holes in the Atlanta D on play action. This game I think will be close. Boy, Atlanta has a lot of pride on the line and a huge monkey on their back. That monkey will get even bigger when the Seahawks win the "Battle of the Birds". Seattle wins outright and have the spread to spare.

 

The playoff intensity should really pick up this weekend as these matches will determine the Final Four. Will we see another Brady vs. Manning playoff matchup? Will the Seahawks and 49ers meet for the third time this season, with a trip to the Super Bowl on the line? We shall indeed see but you better believe the Ravens, Texans, Packers and Falcons all have different ideas about the Conference Championships! Let's just hope these games truly are more entertaining than last week's set.

 

 









2012 NFL Playoffs - Road to Super Bowl XLVII - Wild Card Round

The NFL playoffs for the 2012 season ramps up this weekend. As normal under the current playoff format, twenty teams did not qualify for the post season and have been sent home to watch with the rest of us.  The Atlanta Falcons (#1 NFC seed), San Francisco 49ers (#2 NFC seed), Denver Broncos (#1 AFC seed) and New England Patriots (#2 AFC seed) all have received byes for Wild Card weekend and we will see them compete next week. That leaves us with eight remaining squads, ready to battle it out for the right to move on to the divisional round.

 

 

AFC WILD CARD MATCHUPS

Cincinnati Bengals vs. Houston Texans (-4.5)
Classic matchup of teams heading in opposite directions. The Bengals (#6 AFC seed) come into the game winning 7 of their last 8 games. The Texans (#3 AFC seed) have lost 3 of their last four games and have looked pretty bad in a couple of those defeats. Worse for the Texans is that they lost the firm grip that they had on the AFC #1 seed; sliding to the #3 seed and forcing them to play Wild Card weekend. These teams faced off in the playoffs just last year and I picked the young upstart Cincy team to upset the Texans. This year, despite how poorly they have looked recently, I think the Texans will regroup and rebound to defeat the Bengals. The Bengals defense may be the most underrated in the NFL but the Texans should have enough offensive fire power and pride to put some points up. JJ Watt is a stud on defense for Houston but their backend could be vulnerable to Andy Dalton hooking up with AJ Green & Co. I still think the Texans will find a way at home to get some momentum and cover.

Indianapolis Colts vs. Baltimore Ravens (-7)
This is a very compelling matchup for varies reasons but most notably it could be the last game or the start of the last charge for the Ravens (#4 AFC seed) future Hall of Fame linebacker Ray Lewis. All eyes will be on the Ravens to see what emotional impact Lewis' retirement announcement will have on the team. The Ravens, who came "oh so close" to going to the Super Bowl last year will have some pressure on them to get back to the AFC Championship game. The Colts (#5 AFC seed) who had the worst record in the league last year and started a rookie QB this year (Andrew Luck) wasn't expected to win but a handful of games this season. But to most of our surprise, the Colts banged out 11 wins with Luck running the offense and their head coach Chuck Pagano away from the team battling cancer most of the season. Pagano is now back and Indy can be a very dangerous team because they truly have nothing to lose. Outside of their locker room there is not much expectation on the Colts. Their offense can be hot and cold but the Ravens defense, even with Lewis, is "torchable". I could see the Colts pulling off an upset but I don't think they will. I will give this game to the Ravens because of their talent, experience and emotions for their undisputed leader (Lewis). But if Baltimore's offense doesn't click, which has occured too often, it could be a disappointing day for them. Ravens QB Joe Flacco's performance will be under scrutiny. Ray Rice and Ravens send a message at home and cover.

 

NFC WILD CARD MATCHUPS

 

 

Minnesota Vikings vs. Green Bay Packers (-7.5)

One of the teams I'm most interested to see play these playoffs are the Packers (#3 NFC seed). The last three years they have been "miss, hit & miss". Knocked out in the 1st round three years ago, ran the table to the title as a wild card two years ago and last year was one and done again after just losing one game in the regular season. Green Bay has looked sharp at times and vulnerable at other times this season. Unfortunately for them, an early exit from the playoffs will start some louder talk about the validity of the current Packers teams. The whispers are already there about them getting "lucky" & "hot at the right time" during their Super Bowl run a couple of seasons ago. The Packers just lost last week to their opponent and division rival Vikings (#6 NFC seed) but I think it will be different this week. The Vikings beat the Packers in the comfort of their home dome with a playoff spot on the line. This week they play at frigid Lambeau Field and I have a feeling the Packers are ready to light it up. Minnesota is led by superhuman, and in my opinion league MVP, Adrian Peterson. The Vikings will be looking to kill the clock with Peterson and keep the ball out of Packers QB Aaron Rodgers' hands. But if the Pack jump on the Vikings early and often, Minny doesn't have the passing game to come back. Green Bay makes a statement and covers.

 

Seattle Seahawks vs. Washington Redskins (+3)

RGIII vs. Russell Wilson - a dream matchup of rookie QBs who have absolutely dazzled this season. The Redskins (#4 NFC seed) come into this game riding high after defeating the Dallas Cowboys last week to clinch a playoff spot and the NFC East crown. That win also was their sixth straight, an improbable run after starting the season 3 - 6. The NFL overall #2 draft pick and Redskins QB Robert Griffin III has shown tremendous leadership as a rookie and has really shined on the field. His read option and play fake skills are magical to the eye and weary on the defenders knees and egos. The Seahawks (#5 NFC seed) have their own dynamo rookie QB in Wilson who was picked 75th overall in the NFL draft. Like RGIII, Wilson has shown tremendous leadership as a rookie and his play on the field has become more and more impressive with each passing game. But this game will come down to the biggest strength of the Seahawks which is their defense. Can the Hawks defense contain the Redskins #1 ranked rushing offense featuring rookie RB Alfred Morris? If they do, Wilson & Company on offense should do enough to win the game. Seahawks RB Marshawn Lynch is a stud himself and should be able to do some damage against the Redskins defense and open up the play action for Wilson. Seattle travels across the country to FedEx Field, beats the Redskins and covers.

 

 

The "wild card" for this Wild Card playoff weekend are the number of rookie and 2nd year players in key positions. As great as the trio of rookie QBs who made the playoffs have played this year, would it be unrealistic to think that one, two or all three of them can bomb? Not really. And lets not forget that Dalton (and Green) for Cincy and Christian Ponder for Minny are just 2nd year players. How will they hold under the pressure?  Soon enough we will see but one thing is for sure: something that we all will predict will certainly and unquestionably not come to fruition. That's the NFL.



New York Giants - Super Bowl XLVI Champs!!!!

Well they did it! The 9 - 7 New York Giants ran the table and won Super Bowl XLVI by defeating the New England Patriots 21 - 17 at Lucas Oil Field in Indianapolis. Giants RB Ahmad Bradshaw scored the game winning touchdown with just about 1 minute left in the game, leaving the Patriots with not enough time to come back and win. The Super Bowl MVP was awarded to Giants QB Eli Manning who was 30 - 40 for 296 yds and 1 TD.

The Giants played "their game" in this Super Bowl; which is they do what they need to do, when they need to do it. They outplayed the Patriots in the first half but they didn't reflect the dominance on the scoreboard. On the first play from scrimmage for the Patriots, the defense for New York forced Patriots QB Tom Brady into a hurried throw from his own endzone which resulted in an intentional grounding penalty and a safety. After the free kick to the G-Men, they drove down and scored on a Victor Cruz 2 yd touchdown catch. Suddenly the Giants were up 9 - 0 and it started to look a bit grim for the Pats. New England hung in there though as their defense played "bend but don't break" not allowing the Giants another point until the second half.  Brady & the offense struggled and scrapped out a FG in the 2nd qtr then finally put together a great touchdown drive right at the end of the half to give the Patriots a 10 - 9 halftime lead.

The Pats opened the second half with another impressive drive culminating with an Aaron Hernandez 12 yd touchdown catch. They would not score another point for the rest of the game. At that point, the Giants were down 17 - 9 and as well as they moved the ball, they were only able to a score a couple of FG's before the game winning TD. New York fumbled the ball on a couple of occasions but had the ball bounce back to them both times. The Patriots offense outside of their two TD drives never looked in sync. As a matter of fact, they reminded me a lot of how the Packers looked against the Giants back in the NFC Divisional Round. Dropped passes, missed throws, untimely penalties and one turnover. On what looked like what could have been a Patriots time consuming, game clinching drive, Brady misfired on two consecutive passes. The most crucial one was a 25 yd throw he made off stride to Wes Welker that Welker could not corral with about 4 minutes left in the game; that would have given the Pats a first down and a great chance of putting the game away. It was not to be. After the next Brady misfire, New England punted the ball back to New York. Manning then drove the Giants down the field for the game winning TD, starting with a great (throw and) 38 yd catch by WR Mario Manningham, which pulled them up to midfield. Manning proceeded to make clutch throws to get the Giants down to where Bradshaw could score his TD. On that play, the Patriots allowed him to score and Bradshaw, aware that the clock was his friend tried to stop his momentum at the last moment but he fell into the endzone. With just under a minute and down by 4 points, the Patriots tried in desperation to get downfield for a game winning TD but some dropped passes impeded their progress and on the final play of the game, a Brady "hail mary" pass was deflected to the ground.

I take my hat off to the New York Giants. They have had the right attitude all along throughout their incredible run. Many folks saw the similiarity of this team to the 2007 team that made a similiar run. I didn't see it. I expected to Giants to fold up every round in the playoffs and they didn't. They beat two number one seeded teams and a number two seed team on their way to hoist the Lombardi trophy I salute the New York Giants and respect their accomplishment this season. Congrats G-Men!!

Super Bowl XLVI: New York Giants vs. New England Patriots

The moment is finally near; the New York Giants and the New England Patriots are about to square off in Super Bowl XLVI. The NFC champion Giants qualified for this Super Bowl matchup by disposing of the San Francisco 49ers in overtime two weeks ago. Earlier that same day, the AFC champion Patriots squeaked by the Baltimore Ravens to earn the right to play the Giants. Since then there has been a lot of talk and hype but now it's time to get to the action.

The Giants are 2.5 point underdogs but you wouldn't know it based on all of the talk for the past two weeks. A lot of people have bought in on the Giants who have been red hot, knocking out the top two seeds in the NFC on its way to the Super Bowl. Based on what we have seen over the last month, the Giants definitely look better on the field than the Patriots. The Giants also had a gutsy win against the Patriots this season in Foxboro. Everyone's favorite quarterback for the moment Eli Manning made some timely completions in that game (and in the playoffs) and some wonder if he's even better than Tom Brady. The Patriots' defense has not been that good this season and most expect the Giants talented passing game to take advantage. As I've mentioned before, the key to disrupting the Giants offense is getting in Eli's face and getting him to the ground. I fully expect Bill Belichick to come up with all kinds of blitzes that the Giants have not seen on film. But will they get to him in time? A good running game by the more than capable Giants backfield could be key to offsetting constant pressure. On the other side of the ball, the Patriots offense must exploit the weakness of the Giants team: its secondary. I could be wrong but I don't expect much out of the Patriots run game. Brady is going to have to shoulder the load and make plays. Obviously plays will be there for Brady if he has time to throw. Creative screen plays and some quick passes can frustrate the Giants rush and help to expose the secondary to bigger plays down the line. I think some people have forgotten that the Patriots offense can be explosive; they will need to open it up and get that Giants secondary involved.

I am going against the grain and picking the Patriots to "upset" the Giants. Belichick & company will come up with the schemes on offense and defense to win their fourth championship. The Giants have made me look awful throughout the whole playoffs as I have repeatedly discussed the "stinker" (game) they still have in their back pocket. They have one more chance to shut me up again.

NFL Final Four - AFC/NFC Championship - Road To Super Bowl XLVI

After the first seven games of the NFL playoffs, the seeding for the teams remained in order. Every home team won their games, even the San Francisco 49ers who was a rare home underdog. But in the eighth game, there was a bit of a shocker. The defending Super Bowl champion Green Bay Packers were upset by the  New York Giants. The number one seed in the NFC and the best team in the NFL was suddenly "one and done".  That loss obviously guarantees that we will have a new Super Bowl champ. Lets take a look at AFC and NFC Championship games which will determine the two teams who will fight to claim the Lombardi Trophy.


Baltimore Ravens vs. New England Patriots:
This should be a good game. You have the Ravens with a prolific defense and inconsistent offense matched up with the Patriots with a prolific offense and a suspect defense. I think a big factor here will be whether the Ravens will be able to exploit the weakness of the Patriots defense. As much as I respect Ray Lewis, Terrell Suggs, Ed Reed and company on defense, I think the Patriots will score against them. The Patriots will try to light the scoreboard up just like last week but for different reasons. Last week it was to foil a Denver Broncos offense which would have an issue trying to overcome a large deficit. This week, it will be to take the game out of its defense's hands. Even with that thought, I still expect to see Bill Belichick come up with a scheme to rattle Joe Flacco. A couple of seasons ago the Ravens went up to Foxboro and spanked the Pats in the playoffs. I think New England will get their revenge this year and make it back to the Super Bowl.


New York Giants vs. San Francisco 49ers:
The Giants have truly made me look bad in these playoffs. I have been their harshest critic. Even though the Packers last week played a tremendously sloppy game with turnovers, dropped passes & missed throws, I still give credit to the Giants for going into Green Bay and taking that game. When the 49ers beat the Saints last week, I automatically thought of this NFC Championship game. My first thoughts was the the winner of the Packers vs. Giants would beat the 49ers. The Giants almost pulled off a victory in San Francisco earlier in the year and I like their confidence as a team. As the days of this week started passing by, my thoughts started to change. I like what the 49ers do on defense. If they are smart and have learned anything about the Giants, they will pressure Eli Manning to the hilt. On offense, though I don't trust Alex Smith as much as Aaron Rodgers, I think the 49ers philosophy may be the right approach against the Giants defense. The Giants defensive strength is their pass rush. The 49ers can mitigate any damage by the Giants pass rush by running the ball, which they do well. Smith is going to have to abuse that Giants secondary though. Play action will be key for Smith but he's going to have to connect with his guys. I wouldn't be surprised at all if the Giants won this game but I still think they have that stinker in their back pocket. I want to see if the Giants can make me look bad once again. The 49ers miraculously makes it to the Super Bowl in Jim Harbaugh's first season as head coach.

NFL Divisional Round - Road to Super Bowl XLVI

NFL Wild Card weekend showcased wins by all four of the home teams. The Houston Texans, Denver Broncos, New Orleans Saints and New York Giants all advanced to this weekend's NFL Divisional Round. All of these teams must hit road in hopes of crashing the now pristine playoff seed order. Lets take a look at the games.



Denver Broncos vs. New England Patriots:
The Broncos shocked the world last weekend with their upset overtime victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. Broncos QB Tim Tebow completed less than half of his passes but made the ones he did connect on count. I think Patriots' Head Coach Bill Belichick will feel his best defense in this game will be his offense. I expect to see Tom Brady and crew to try blitz the scoreboard and force the Broncos to attempt to play catch up. This strategy should work and the Patriots will go on to the AFC Championship game. I wouldn't give the Broncos 13.5 points though.



Houston Texans vs. Baltimore Ravens:
Texans come into this game riding high after winning their first playoff game in franchise history over the Cincinnati Bengals last week. The Bengals offense moved the ball early but the Texans defense never gave up the big play. The big question for this matchup is: can the Ravens make big plays against this Texans defense? They certainly have some weapons to do so, mainly RB Ray Rice. But on a few occasions this year, the Ravens offense has disappeared and Rice doesn't seem to get the touches he deserves. Though I am not thoroughly confident in this Ravens offense, I will give them the edge to win this game since they are at home and their defense is playing against a third string QB. Go with the Ravens but don't be shocked if the Texans somehow find a way.



New Orleans Saints vs. San Francisco 49ers:
After defeating the Detriot Lions, a team who featured a potent offense, the Saints play a 49ers team who's strength lies in its defense. The 49ers also feature a good running game, which I expect to see a lot of  to try to keep Saints QB Drew Brees off of the field. Although the Saints offense may not run as smooth outdoors on the road as it does at home, I still expect them to put some points up. I think their defense will "bend but not break" against 49ers which will give the Saints the right to move on to the NFC Championship game.



New York Giants vs. Green Bay Packers:
The Giants had an impressive home win last week against the Atlanta Falcons, not allowing their offense to score any points. That won't happen this weekend. The Packers do have a few things to worry about like the potential of being rusty after having had the bye and several of their star players missing the regular season finale as well. Also their defense has been porous at times and their offensive line is banged up.  But on a good note, WR Greg Jennings is reportedly looking healthy and is ready to return from his leg injury that has sidelined him for a few weeks. The Giants cleared a big hurdle by winning last week, albeit to a suspect Falcons team. As I mentioned last week, the Giants have a history of dropping stinkers late in the season (and post season) and this might just be the week we see it. I won't say the Giants have no chance because they have nothing to lose and played the Packers tough earlier this season, but if the Packers are clicking, forget it. I expect Aaron Rodgers to "discount double-check" the G-Men to death. Packers roll.

M-E-S-S, MESS MESS MESS!!! - 2011 New York Jets Miss The Playoffs

The New York Jets 2011 season ended in a thud in Miami on the last Sunday of the season. They lost to the Dolphins 19 - 17 which eliminated any chance they had to make the playoffs. The Jets seemed to play in a haze the whole season but was able to get into great position to make the playoffs after a big win at home against the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 14. That win placed the Jets at 8 - 5 and in the driver's seat for an AFC Wild Card spot with three games to go. They didn't win another game.

In many ways the Jets had already failed by Week 14. After losing in the AFC Championship on the road the last two years it was clear that the Jets goal for the 2011 season was to win the AFC East and possibly even take the #1 seed in the conference. They needed to get some of these playoff games in their own building and perhaps with a bye, play one less playoff game. But they sustained early losses to the Raiders and Ravens which knocked the Jets off balance. Even more devastating than those losses were the two they gave up to the Patriots, the team they needed to dethrone to win the division. Instead of battling the Pats as though they were their equals, the Jets seemed to regress back to "little brother" status after those two losses. Mix in a nationally televised disastrous loss to the Broncos (which really had critics coming after Mark Sanchez) and the Jets still found themselves a few weeks later angled for a Wild Card spot. But then came those three season ending games.

Rex Ryan will only look as good as his team will make him look. His bravado attitude about his team is unwelcomed in a lot of corners but I don't see him changing - and he shouldn't. He looks bad now only because the team couldn't cash the check his mouth has been writing. His team, as it stands now, is in somewhat of a mess. Many are questioning whether Sanchez can cut it as a winning QB. The Jets running game and defense, the staples of this organization, took a big step back. And we are now finding out that there was some disruptive in fighting within the Jets locker room. I think the Jets mess is very "cleanable". The process of the clean up though will be very intriguing. The Jets will go through what many other NFL teams will go through. They must decide which veterans to keep and which youngsters to bring along; all with the salary cap looming over their heads. Veterans will cost any team some money but their value in the locker room and their leadership on the field is "invaluable". As of now, the team looks to be standing behind Sanchez but for how much longer? If we are to believe the "whispers" some of his teammates have lost faith in him. The "powers that be" cannot ignore that and it will be interesting to see where they go from here on that front. Will Rex ultimately abandon the "ground and pound" mantra? The NFL rule book and stat sheets reveal that passing the ball wins games in this league in 2011. Where does that leave the Jets in 2012? Somebody grab some mops and some disinfectant - this clean up going to take some work - but it can be done.

2011 NFL Preview - AFC Outlook

The 2011 NFL season has finally arrived! Here is my outlook for teams in the AFC:

AFC EAST

1.  New York Jets

Jets defense keeps the pressure on again this season. Mark Sanchez and the offense take another baby step towards opening up.  Rex Ryan finally gets his squad a division title and a home playoff game.

2. New England Patriots

Bill Belichick & company have done some retooling and this team still has the potential to reach the mountaintop. But I think this will be the beginning of the Tom Brady “window” closing.

3. Miami Dolphins

Great defense + questionable offense = a lot of heartache in South Florida. I see the Dolphins on the losing end of a lot of close battles. If Chad Henne and Reggie Bush step up the Fins could surprise the division.

4. Buffalo Bills

The Bills have a few nice pieces here and there but can they “connect those dots”? If Ryan Fitzpatrick can mirror his triumphs from last season and if Shawne Merriman can capture his Chargers glory back, the Bills will compete for a higher position in the division.  Chan Gailey needs to find touches for C.J. Spiller.

AFC NORTH

1. Pittsburgh Steelers

The defending AFC champions will not miss a beat this season. Expect to see the same Steeler formula of tough defense and timely offense to secure Pittsburgh another division title.  One question about Dick LeBeau’s defense though: did the Packers expose a chink in the armor during the Super Bowl?

2. Baltimore Ravens

There’s a lot to like about the Ravens; great defense, potential on offense – they are primed to finally get over the Steeler hurdle. We know they will continue to have epic battles with their division rivals but I won’t believe in them going the distance until I see it. Negative whispers about Joe Flacco will grow into screams this season if the young QB doesn’t take it to the next level.

3. Cleveland Browns

Browns’ fans must be excited about their young budding team in 2011.  Colt McCoy showed he could play on the professional level last season and looks to progress more this year.  But with a new coaching staff in place, a lack of a true offseason and young players I don’t expect the Browns to excel this season. They will be an improved team though.

4. Cincinnati Bengals

Cincy looks like they are totally in rebuilding mode. The team purged a few veterans, most notably Chad Ochocinco , and is looking to give fresh faces a chance to represent the organization. 2011 draft picks Andy Dalton and A.J. Green should see a ton of playing time. This could possibly be an old 2 – 3 win “Bungal” season.

AFC SOUTH

1. Houston Texans

I am not totally confident in picking the Texans to win the division; it is almost a pick by default.  The Texans are one of those teams that I don’t believe in their success until I see it. This talented offensive team added Wade Phillips as defensive coordinator to steward one of the league’s most porous defenses. There should be a vast improvement on that side ball. Mix that with Matt Schaub, Andre Johnson & Arian Foster on offense and that should spell many victories for the Texans.  Will they live up to their potential?

2. Indianapolis Colts

The Colts are a difficult team to read with Peyton Manning’s neck injury; no one knows just how long he will be out of the lineup. I’m one to believe that even with a healthy Manning, the Colts are beginning to decline. His absence will only accelerate the Colts slide. Hopefully, he won’t miss many games.

3. Jacksonville Jaguars

I was all ready to pick the Jaguars to win the AFC South and then they cut David Garrard. By no means was Garrard lighting up the league but I think this cost saving move just "cost" the Jags their season.  They still have good players on this team particularly Maurice Jones-Drew but I feel that Garrard was the right guy to lead the Jags to a division title. Hopefully rookie Blaine Gabbert will take over the reins soon and give Jacksonville the value they are looking for.

4. Tennessee Titans

Although the Titans have some gifted players on offense and defense, I think they have gone through too many changes in key areas (head coach, quarterback) to have a winning season. By no means do I think they will be doormats but I do foresee a bit of a struggle for them. Coming over from Seattle, Matt Hasselbeck looks to give the offense stability along with dynamic running back Chris Johnson. They’ll be competitive just not victorious.

AFC WEST

1. San Diego Chargers

Last year the Chargers led the league in offense and defense but failed to make the playoffs. That will not be the case this season. San Diego is the most talented team in the AFC West and this year they will benefit from it.  Phillip Rivers is as good as they come at the QB position and he’ll have Vincent Jackson to throw to all season unlike he did last year. The Chargers will miss Darren Sproles (now on the Saints) but I expect them to still make strides this year. They are championship contenders.

2. Oakland Raiders

I like the Oakland Raiders and I think they will build on their success from last season. A little stability for Jason Campbell should help him be more consistent on the field. The Raiders certainly are keeping their fingers crossed that Darren McFadden can repeat his on field performance from a season ago. While I don’t expect the Raiders to sweep the division again, I do expect them to battle for a Wild Card spot.

3. Kansas City Chiefs

Defending AFC West champion Chiefs snuck up on a few folks last year; that won’t be the case this season. Jamaal Charles should have another outstanding season and like the Raiders, the Chiefs will probably battle for a Wild Card spot.  Although I can see a winning season from KC I think they will miss the post season this year.

4.  Denver Broncos

While I think holding on to Kyle Orton was the right move, I don’t think he will be able to steer the Broncos to a successful season this year. I like that the Broncos hired John Fox as their new head coach and I think he will help make Denver competitive.  Fox’s defensive brilliance should lift up an already talented defense that was decimated by injuries last year, particularly Elvis Dumervil who returns after missing the entire 2010 season. Also  rookie Von Miller should immediately help this defense.  The Broncos will make the division tougher than most anticipate as they should battle and finish near an 8 – 8 record.