This is the time of the year when even the most casual of sports fans get caught up in the NFL playoff hype. This weekend features a number of teams playing back-to-back weekends in a row; the only difference this week is that when you lose, you’re done.. Having said that, here are my picks.
The New York Jets @ Cincinnati: Last week, the Jets shut them out at home. But like they say, that was last week. The Bengals will be ready to prove it was a little too cold in NY for their liking. If the Jets can run the ball and the defense play consistent, the Jets win. If the Bengals can throw, it could be a long afternoon for NY. I like the Jets BUT…PICK THE BENGALS.
The Philadelphia Eagles @ Dallas: Last week, Dallas held the Eagles to 0 points. Huh? 0 points? Can they do that again? Will Tony Romo finally win a playoff game? McNabb needs this game as bad as Romo for I believe both jobs are at stake, including Cowboys head coach Wade Phillips. PICK: Dallas has been playing well, however, its the Eagles who tell Dallas turn the lights off when you leave. PICK:THE EAGLES.
The Baltimore Ravens @ New England: The Ravens travel well in all types of weather so I don’t think the Patriots have an advantage. New England will be without Wes Welker, who only led the league in catches. The Patriots still have Randy Moss and Brady, but this is not the team of years past. Baltimore travels north and lives to see another weekend of football. PICK: THE RAVENS.
The Green Bay Packers @ Arizona: The Cardinals need to get Beanie Wells on track if they are to be successful against the packers. With Anquan Boldin on the sidelines, the key matchup will be Larry Fitzgerald against Charles Woodson. Will Arizona have time to throw? Will Green Bay be able to run the ball. Weather should not be a factor. PICK: Despite appearing in the Super Bowl last year, it’s one and done for the Cardinals. PICK: GREEN BAY.
PREDICTION: The Raiders will lose a record 10 games for 8 straight seasons next year!
