Divisional Round
The Divisional round in the NFL playoffs can be more of a precursor to the Super Bowl than the Conference Championship games. The Divisional round shows us which top seeds benefited from the BYE, and which ones were hindered by it. It shows up which Cinderellas still have time left at the ball, and which ones carriages are becoming pumpkins. Quite frankly this is the round where the men get separated from the boys.
Ravens at Steelers
What happens when the biggest meanest kid on your block, pick a fight with the biggest meanest kid on the next block? Well the NFL equivalent of this fight is the Ravens/Steelers game(s). Boasted as 2 of the most physical teams in the league on offense and defense this matchup is traditionally one of the greatest competitions ever. I believe though that the "finesse" game of either team is what will make the difference. We know that both teams want to be physical and aggressive and attack the line of scrimmage. However I think who ever can get a screen game or some kind of underneath passing game will gain the edge on the other teams aggressive approach
Packers at Falcons
I will try my best not to let my emotions infiltrate this analysis. The Packers have been proving their backers right in the way they dismantled the host Eagles last week. The big question for Green Bay is can they do it again. They do boast one of the most stout defenses in the NFC, however during the regular season the Falcons multi-faceted Offense gave the Packers D, fits. The X factor this time will be running games. Whichever team can establish a consistent running attack will be in the drivers seat early.
Seahawks at Bears
The Seahawks were a remarkable story last week, even though with the victory they still maintain a sub .500 record. The cards were stacked in the Seahawks favor last week, this week they have to literally win this game. They have beaten the Bears before, however it was early in the season. Now the Bears have looked much better with much more consistency since that game. However they have still had the customary Bears stretches of looking terrible on Offense. The difference in this game is mental. Which team can come with a intensity and desire to win that is greater than the others.
Jets at Patriots
Another game where I must put my emotions aside, because I'd love to see a situation where both teams lose but it's not possible. I have always said that the 2 teams in the AFC that run an Offense designed to counter act the Jets D are the Colts and The Pats. Last week The Colts were not running on all cylinders and were knocked off. I don't think the Patriots will be as unprepared. If the Jets can overcome the Home Field advantage, and the preparedness and still repeat last weeks performance then they can leave with a win, if not then we will have a repeat of the regular season matchup in the Meadowlands
