Well, we've reflected on our (mostly) terrible pre-season predictions. Now's time to start with a blank slate and pick the pre-playoffs road to the superbowl. Here we go!
New York Jets @ Cincinnati (-2.5) - So last week, a depleted Cinci team pretty much mailed it in. It was cold, noone gave a damn, and the NYJ beat the hell out of the Bengals in a meaningless game for Cinci. Despite Sanchez having 20 or so picks this season, they are coming in with the number 1 total defense and numero uno rushing attack. That's huge in the playoffs. I don't think it's going to be another 30+ point effort for either team, but I like (personally I hate) the Jets to win. Upset to kick off the playoffs.
Philadelphia @ Dallas (-4) - Last week, with everything on the line, Philly got their asses handed to them by Dallas. Dallas has played well in the past few games, and philly has played incredible over the past 2 months. Nonetheless, Dallas has had Philly's number this season, they aren't going to be subjected to the elements outside, the trenches of the Cowboys have been lights out, and Romo has been able to play mistake free football. Dallas, for the first time since 1996, wins a playoff game. For all the non-cowboy fans, let's collect $200 to donate to BG and I'll see if Sono will let us ban all cowboys fans for a week.
Baltimore @ New England (-3.5) - Wes Welker, Brady's 3rd down crutch, is out. Now Ed Reed will be over the top to double up on Moss and that'll be taken away. I don't know if Julian Edelman can step up, but if he can, New England should win this game. Ultimately, I think Brady is way too good, and Bellichick is way too smart to lose this game at home.
Green Bay @ Arizona (-1) - And the last game of the week. Last week's game is irrelevant as Arizona showed nothing, pulled the starters very early, and proceeded to let Green Bay beat the hell out of them. I see Green Bay a lot like Arizona of last year, except Green bay actually finished the season hot, whereas Arizona didn't. Green Bay has an excellent defense, excellent passing offense, and their run game seems to be getting up to speed. These two offenses playing in the giant toaster should be one of the most exciting games to watch. I like Green Bay to roll their way down to New Orleans.
The prediction for the road to the superbowl!
NYJ over Cinci
Dallas over Philly
New England over Baltimore
Green Bay over Arizona
Indi over NYJ
San Diego over New England
Minnesota over Dallas
Green Bay over New Orleans
Indi over San Diego
Minnesota over Green Bay
Indi over Minnesota