Picks and predictions for this weekend’s NFL games.
Artwork By: Hayden Johnson
After 17 exciting weeks of intense and unforgettable competition, the NFL regular season has finally come to a close with the arrival of the New Year, and the do-or-die playoff time has begun. This weekend brings several close match-ups in the NFC and AFC of the conferences’ respective wild card teams. In the AFC, the games will be the New York Jets vs. The Indianapolis Colts and the Baltimore Ravens vs. the Kansas City Chiefs. In the NFC, the wild card games will be Green Bay vs. Philadelphia and New Orleans vs. Seattle.
Jets vs. Colts
This match up between AFC titans will be one of the best of the playoffs in my opinion. The dynamic aerial attack of the Colts with Payton Manning throwing strikes to one of his many talented receivers is arguably the best in the league. Even with a receiving core plagued by injuries, Payton is still able to distribute the football effectively and is a nightmare for even the most talented corners around the league. Which brings me to the Jets, as they have one of the most talented pass defenses in the league. With corners Antonio Cromartie and Darrelle Revis, the Colts have met their match in the Jets and this should be the big battle of the game. I see the Jets holding Payton Manning and running the ball effectively against the Colts defense with a final score of Jets 23 – Colts 20.
Ravens vs. Chiefs
Both of these teams look to be in good form coming into the playoffs. The Chiefs (which are an especially young team) captured the AFC West, beating out a very hot Chargers team. The Ravens, who are known for their experience and defensive prowess, have been in this position before and are expected to continue business as usual in their first playoff game of the season. I think that the Chiefs will be unable to gain any ground on the formidable Raven defense, despite their #1 ranked rushing yards, and will struggle to get points in this game. I think Ravens RB Ray Rice will have a standout performance and will lead the Ravens to victory with a score of Ravens 17 – Chargers 7.
Packers vs. Eagles
This game is my pick of the week for this wild card playoff weekend. These are two of the most talented teams in the NFL and both rightfully would deserve a place atop the NFC in the Super Bowl. The Packers’ seemingly unstoppable passing attack of Aaron Rodgers to his many receivers will need to show up on Sunday if the Packers have any hope of winning. Also, the Packers will need to play contain-defense to slow down the season-long onslaught performance by Eagles QB Michael Vick, who can throw a dagger down the field against any team, but can also break free and rush for 40+ yards at any point in the game. If the Packers can contain, they will win. However, I think the Eagles will pull out the victory with a final score of Eagles 23 – Packers 21.
Seahawks vs. Saints
The defending Super Bowl Champion New Orleans Saints have become accustomed to performing during this time of year. On the contrary, the Seahawks haven’t been to the playoffs since 2007 and essentially limped into this year’s competition. Seattle is the only team in NFL history to win its division and earn a playoff berth with a record under .500. The Saints’ 3rd ranked passing attack will tear apart the 27th ranked Seahawks defense and will prove that its run for back-to-back NFL titles is a very real possibility. Drew Brees will have a big game in this one, and I expect the Saints to win handily with a final score of Saints 28 – Seahawks 6.
