In reference to the picture, its amazing how one moment in time, one field goal in a playoff game, can send two NFL franchises in two completely different directions. I know, Raider fan, that you got “jobbed” by the tuck rule and that you made it to the Superbowl the next season, but New England’s decade-long success began on that night… along with your subsequent demise. Will any of the four teams we watch on Sunday be starting their eminent climb toward being the team of the decade? Or will the loss of one game send their franchise reeling into oblivion? I “CANT WAIT” to see. Now, on to games that matter.
AND then there were Four!
NYG @ SF 1/22 630pn est: The Giants stay alive to face the 49ers in San Francisco. Weather is supposed to be rainy and in the mid 50′s with winds near ten miles per hour. I have a feeling both of these teams will share similar game plans. Run the ball, control the clock, and play lights-out defense. Both the 49ers and Giants scored higher than normal point-totals last week. This was partly due to the opponent’s quick-striking style of offense, which provides the two teams more opportunities to score. I predict this game to be a much lower scoring affair than even the regular season match up between these two teams. The Giants were without a few key defensive players last time they faced SF. Most notably, Boley at Linebacker. The Giants were beat for big yards on two similarly designed crossing patterns, the first by Davis and the second by Kendall Hunter, which resulted in the go-ahead TD. With Boley in the lineup, the Giants will be better against these underneath routes, forcing Alex Smith to go over-the-top or find single-coverage down the sidelines. This game will go to overtime tied at 23 and the 49ers win on the foot of David Akers. 26-23. 49ers advance to their first Superbowl in 17 years! So, the pick is SF -2 & the over of 42.
Baltimore @ NE 1/22 3pm est: After listening to a week of prognostication and bullsh*t I’ve come to a very simple conclusion. If New England stops Ray Rice and the rushing attack, they win easily. Baltimore’s defense was helped by TJ Yates 3 interceptions and Jacoby Jones early fumble on the kick return last week. New England will not be providing Baltimore with such luxuries. If Baltimore is going to win this game, they need to establish the run early. This will keep Tom Brady on the sideline, which may be their best defensive game plan. The Ravens are averaging 23 points per game. They will need at least 27 if they plan to take another trip to the Superbowl. Their solid (#2 overall) defense with Ed Reed and Ray Lewis seemingly playing their final two games could be enough. Of anyone in the league, Ray Lewis can still impose his will on others…imagine his intensity knowing he has only two games left, ever! On the other side, the Patriots average 32 points per game, but two of their three losses this year were to top-tier teams (@ PIT wk 8 & home versus NYG week 9). Both PIT & NYG brought defensive intensity, keeping Brady’s numbers and the score within reach. The Patriots will win this game if they can do the impossible, slow down their own offense. By creating some rhythm during the first half and limiting Baltimore’s offensive possessions, NE can maintain a small lead. A small lead that they can eventually expand in the fourth quarter. Over the last 9 regular-season games, NE started slow, only to blow out teams in the second half (minus the Colts comeback to cover the -20.5). I see the Patriots with a 20-17 or 24-20 lead going into the fourth quarter that will grow to 30-17 or 34-27, final score. Even though I can see the total going over 50, I dont see Baltimore scoring enough to push it over. The WinningFF selection is New England -7 and the under of 50…final score 30-17.
Best of Luck with your Playoff Challenge Fantasy Football leagues and wagers.
WinningFantasyFootball@Gmail.com
Comments