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Conference Championships
Jan. 24th, 2010 07:08 amMy quick predictions:
AFC CHAMPIONSHIP
The five seed Jets are playing at the one seed Colts. The Jets, led by rookie quarterback Mark Sanchez and coach Rex Ryan, have stunned the football world by making it this far into the playoffs. They were decimated by the Saints in week 4 and had a rough six weeks after that. But the Jets made a miracle recovery and squeaked into the playoffs. They managed a convincing win last week, defeating the red-hot Chargers, and look to continue their winning ways. Their outlook is so positive that Coach Ryan is already selling Jets in the Super Bowl merchandise. That is either some mighty moxie or the stupidest bold move in this NFL season.
But the Colts, led by future Hall-of-Fame QB Peyton Manning, are on a roll. They won 14 games during the regular season earning the number one seed. Last week, the Colts put a beatdown on the Ravens. The team can put the ball anywhere they want on the field, can stop the run, and have an excellent pass rush defense.
Look for the Jets to blitz early and often. But look for Manning and the Colts to do what they do best: Score under pressure.
Jets 17, Colts 23
NFC CHAMPIONSHIP
The two seed Vikings are on a roll themselves. They made a great post-season statement last week by embarrassing a vaunted Cowboys team, keeping Dallas to 3 lowly points. Minnesota, led by another future Hall-of-Fame QB in Brett Favre, has no problem working outside the pocket. With the explosive running game from Adrian Peterson, they can also stay on the ground. But it is perhaps their defense front seven, led by Jarrad Allen, that can stop the Saints.
The New Orleans Saints are led by NFL-leader in completions percent and touchdowns, Drew Brees. The man is becoming a legend before our eyes. He can do anything he wants with the ball. The Saints also have three great runners and four awesome receivers. Add to that a defense that strips away the ball often along with the home crowd energy and things will go well.
Look for the Saints to continue with what has worked: Strike with precision passes, but run the ball for an even pass/rush ratio.
Vikings 28, Saints 34
