This week we enter the playoffs. We have 4 games so all are Key Picks and we will take a shot at calling the scores of the games for the first time this year.
New Orleans at Seattle - Seahawks slipped into the playoffs with a 7-9 record using backup QB Charlie Whitehurst and the Rams inability to score offensively. On paper this game isn't even close, but that's why they play. I expect Drew Brees and company to dispatch of the Seahawks unless there is some major injury leading up to or during the game. The Seattle defense will end up playing most of the game and must rely on their offense to play to perfection if they have a shot. Saints in a blow out and it may get embarrassing. I'll go with the Saints on this and call 41- 3 Saints.
New York at Indianapolis - Has the makings of being the best game of the weekend. We have Peyton and the boys trying to advance past the Jets. For the Colts to succeed Garcon and Wayne must make significant contributions down field opening up the middle for Tamme and Addai. If they can stretch the Jets defense the Colts will put up enough points to secure the win. The Jets need to blitz, blitz and double blitz the heck out of Manning not allowing him to get set and keep the recievers out of the game. Offensively Sanchez doesn't have to be Superman, he just needs to handle offense and keep turn overs to a minimum of 2. If Sanchez faulters early we may see Mark Brunell in the second half, he's proved he can play with last weeks performance. For the sake of drama I want the Jets to win but won't be surprised if Peyton Manning wills his team to victory. My call Jets 23- Colts 17.
Baltimore at Kansas City - The Ravens defense will be hovering all around Matt Cassel and the Chiefs. If KC gets off to a slow start offensively it will be a long afternoon. Weather may be a factor with a forecast of rain and chance of snow temperature around 25/34. My heart tells me KC and my mind tells me Baltimore. I will go with the heart and have KC winning 27-20.
Green Bay at Philadelphia - Mike Vick vs Aron Rodgers, DeSean Jackson vs Greg Jennings and Andy Reid vs Mike McCarthy. This game could see both teams in the 35 plus zone in scoring. Green Bays defense looked good last week containing Cutler, but they were at home and this week they are on the road. The Eagles Vick says he's at 75 pct health and that may be the deciding factor. That means "escapability" factor is down 25 pct and that could lead to more sacks and turnovers by trying to force what he is incapable of doing physically. This game is a tough call but I like the Eagles in this one. I expect them to run McCoy often controlling the ball and limiting Rodgers touches. An added bonus we may see Eagles vs Falcons in the upcoming rounds. Eagles 33 Packers 24
