What an interesting weekend of games we had! Both went pretty much how I expected, although the scores were slightly higher than I expected.
AFC - New York Jets at Indianapolis Colts : As expected, the Jets defense gave the Colts fits in the first half, but they made adjustments during halftime and came out swinging. Unlike the Ravens game, the Colts actually fell behind, trailing by eleven points late in the second quarter. After that, though, it was all Colts. Manning and company moved the ball very effectively, even though Jets' Derrelle Revis clung tightly to star receiver Reggie Wayne. The #1 wideout only caught three passes in the game, but Manning simply turned his attention elsewhere, mostly to Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie, who each had over 100 yards receiving. Manning ended up with over 350 yards passing and three touchdowns with no interceptions. Sanchez wasn't picked off, either, although he only mustered 257 yards and two touchdowns.
Sanchez's stats are the big surprise. After focussing on a running attack during most of the season and postseason, the Jets switched tactics and passed more. It worked early, as their first touchdown (which gave them the lead 7-3) was a 80-yard bomb to Braylon Edwards. Their second touchdown was set up with a 45 pass play to Jerricho Cotchery and completed with a 19-yard pass play to Dustin Keller. Those were the main highlights, as the two running backs couldn't gain fifty yards each. The Jets couldn't get into Colts territory offensively in the fourth quarter. The closest they came to a score in the third quarter was their first drive, which got to the Colts 34-yard line. The field goal missed, though (a chronic problem during these playoffs), and the Jets were shut-out in the second half.
NFC - Minnesota Vikings at New Orleans Saints: This one was definitely an instant classic! No team ever led by more than seven points, the teams mostly exchanged scores, and the game went into overtime. This was great!
Performance-wise, it wasn't as great. Truthfully, the Vikings dominated the Saints in all ways except the score. They lost because they dominated in one other crucial stats - turnovers lost. Just like in the 2000 NFC Championship, where the Vikings came in 15-1 yet lost to an clearly weaker Atlanta Falcons team due to turnovers, the Vikings repeat the problem ten years later. The Vikings fumbled six times, losing half of them to the Saints, and Favre was intercepted twice. On the other side, the Saints turned the ball over only once, a Reggie Bush punt recovery that gave the Vikings excellent field position.
The Saints offense gained less than 300 yards; their 28 points in regulation were assisted by excellent field position due to the Vikings turnovers. On the other hand, the Vikings offense churned out nearly 500 yards in the loss. The Vikings clearly had the better offense and defense, they just couldn't hold onto the ball. Adrian Peterson, who suffered many fumbles in his first two seasons, lost the ball twice, but the Vikings got both of those back. The passing game suffered all of the turnovers, as receivers Berrian and Harvin lost two of the fumbles and Favre lost the other. Even when the Vikings recovered their own fumbles, though, they lost field position and momentum; most of their non-scoring drives were stalled or stopped by turnovers or fumbles.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Friday, January 22, 2010
NFL Playoffs : Division round review and Conference Championship preview
The start of the college semester distracted me, but I want to get out my comments about last weekend's game and my predictions for this week's game. Let's move right into them...
In general it was a pretty one-sided weekend. Only the final game provided any measure of suspense. I haven't seen a playoff with so many games won by two scores or more (five of eight so far) in many years.
Arizona Cardinals at New Orleans Saints: This was touted as an offensive showdown, and it was a great showcase -- for the Saints. The Saints proved that they truly have a defense, as they pestered Warner. The Cardinals were nearly shut out in the second half, while the Saints rolled. Drew Brees' numbers were outstanding, and it gives them a tremendous confidence boost going into the NFC Championship Game, especially considering how they closed the regular season.
Baltimore Ravens at Indianapolis Colts: The Ravens played a similar game plan against the Colts that won the game against the Patriots. Unfortunately for them, the result was different. The Ravens wanted to pressure the quarterback, shut down their opponents' running game, and push their own running game. While the Colts had less than 100 rushing yards and the Ravens piled up over 250 of them, the rest of the game plan didn't work as hoped. Manning was able to find targets quickly and get rid of the ball. Although rushed, he was not sacked, and the added pressure upfront meant open receivers downfield. As the Ravens fell behind, they couldn't come back. QB Joe Flacco did not complete a pass after the first quarter, and their running game couldn't score. Amazingly, though, the Ravens held the Colts to only six points through three quarters. They still had a chance until the Colts found the end zone. With two Colts touchdowns in the fourth quarter, the Ravens were left in the dust.
Dallas Cowboys at Minnesota Vikings: I questioned whether Minnesota would hold up against the pressuring Cowboys defense. As it turned out, the pressure went the other way. The Vikings defense, led by intimidating Ray Edwards, was in Tony Romo's face all game. Romo was sacked six times, fumbled twice, and had several passes batted down at the line.
As dominant as the defense was, though, the offense was the star of the game. Brett Favre had the best postseason game of his lengthy career. Although he only threw 24 times, he threw for 234 yards and four touchdowns without an interception. He ended his postseason woes against the Cowboys, who had defeated his Packers three times previously in postseason play. Favre's numbers were great, but they were supported by the excellent play of wideout Sidney Rice. Rice caught six of Favre's fifteen completions, gained 141 of the 234 passing yards, and scored three of the four touchdowns. "Workhorse" doesn't even begin to describe his play.
New York Jets at San Diego Chargers: A close and hard-fought game, this one really should have been won by the Chargers. It came down to field goals, an area usually dominated by San Diego. After all, their kicker held the record for consecutive field goals coming into the game. That record was shattered horribly, as Nate Kaeding missed all three of his attempts, causing the Chargers to lose 17-14.
It looked dismal for San Diego early in the fourth quarter. They trailed 17-7 after scoring the first touchdown, and they hadn't been able to move the ball well since the first quarter. The Jets blitzes weren't upsetting Philip Rivers too much, but he was releasing the ball quicker and with more force than his receivers were used to -- dropped balls were a steady phenomenom. The Chargers got life in the fourth quarter, though. After gaining excellent field position on a turnover, they moved close enough for an easy 40-yard field goal. Unfortunately, Kaeding pulled it to the right. The Chargers defense toughened against the Jets, preventing further scoring. The Chargers scored a touchdown with just over two minutes left, and life was again restored. An onside kick failed, though, and the Jets were able to gain a first down and run out the clock.
CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIPS
AFC: New York Jets (11-7) at Indianapolis Colts (15-2) : The Jets are feeling confident after escaping the Chargers, and think they can win. They aren't foolish enough to automatically assume victory after beating them in the regular season, because that was the Colts "give away" game that ended their unbeaten streak. The Jets know that most of the starters didn't play past early in the second quarter, so this will be a different Colts team.
The Jets rely on the blitz, and Peyton Manning is excellent in avoiding the blitz. The Ravens play a similar defense (after all, Coach Ryan installed that defense before assuming the Jets head position), and the Colts overcame that. Granted, the Ravens played them close, but the Colts finally broke them in the fourth quarter. The Jets have a bigger problem - they don't have the Ravens' running back tandem. Without the ability to gain 200+ yards rushing, they will have to rely on rookie QB Mark Sanchez more. That sounds ominous to me. I like Manning and company's ability to score, even under adversity, and I don't see the Jets able to come back from a deficit. COLTS, 24-10
NFC: Minnesota Vikings (13-4) at New Orleans Saints (14-3) : This game has the potential to be another offensive showdown, but I think the defenses will have a say in this one. The Vikings like to pressure the quarterback by stacking the sides and pulling around guards. The Saints believe in better pass coverage, making it hard for teams to get long plays. Against these opponents, both strategies have pros and cons. Certainly the Saints coverage will cause Favre to either force plays, leading to interceptions, or hold on too late, leading to a sack. However, that weakens the line, opening up Adrian Peterson to have a strong game. The Vikings approach gives line support to slow Reggie Bush and the running game, but it opens Bush and Jeremy Shockey as outlet receivers so that Drew Brees can avoid the sack.
I think the most important offensive tools in this game will be Adrian Peterson and the Saints' short passing game. Peterson could gain nearly 200 yards. If Favre can prevent serious errors, that will make the Vikings a threat. Drew Brees is likely to throw over forty times in the game, and will find Bush and Shockey his favorite targets. If Bush can avoid fumbling the ball, the Saints will control the pace of the game.
Reggie seems to be controlling his fumbling better this season, while Favre still can get into interception trouble when pressured. I think the Saints will play the more flawless game, and capture the victory, allowing the Saints their first Super Bowl trip EVER. SAINTS, 27-24
In general it was a pretty one-sided weekend. Only the final game provided any measure of suspense. I haven't seen a playoff with so many games won by two scores or more (five of eight so far) in many years.
Arizona Cardinals at New Orleans Saints: This was touted as an offensive showdown, and it was a great showcase -- for the Saints. The Saints proved that they truly have a defense, as they pestered Warner. The Cardinals were nearly shut out in the second half, while the Saints rolled. Drew Brees' numbers were outstanding, and it gives them a tremendous confidence boost going into the NFC Championship Game, especially considering how they closed the regular season.
Baltimore Ravens at Indianapolis Colts: The Ravens played a similar game plan against the Colts that won the game against the Patriots. Unfortunately for them, the result was different. The Ravens wanted to pressure the quarterback, shut down their opponents' running game, and push their own running game. While the Colts had less than 100 rushing yards and the Ravens piled up over 250 of them, the rest of the game plan didn't work as hoped. Manning was able to find targets quickly and get rid of the ball. Although rushed, he was not sacked, and the added pressure upfront meant open receivers downfield. As the Ravens fell behind, they couldn't come back. QB Joe Flacco did not complete a pass after the first quarter, and their running game couldn't score. Amazingly, though, the Ravens held the Colts to only six points through three quarters. They still had a chance until the Colts found the end zone. With two Colts touchdowns in the fourth quarter, the Ravens were left in the dust.
Dallas Cowboys at Minnesota Vikings: I questioned whether Minnesota would hold up against the pressuring Cowboys defense. As it turned out, the pressure went the other way. The Vikings defense, led by intimidating Ray Edwards, was in Tony Romo's face all game. Romo was sacked six times, fumbled twice, and had several passes batted down at the line.
As dominant as the defense was, though, the offense was the star of the game. Brett Favre had the best postseason game of his lengthy career. Although he only threw 24 times, he threw for 234 yards and four touchdowns without an interception. He ended his postseason woes against the Cowboys, who had defeated his Packers three times previously in postseason play. Favre's numbers were great, but they were supported by the excellent play of wideout Sidney Rice. Rice caught six of Favre's fifteen completions, gained 141 of the 234 passing yards, and scored three of the four touchdowns. "Workhorse" doesn't even begin to describe his play.
New York Jets at San Diego Chargers: A close and hard-fought game, this one really should have been won by the Chargers. It came down to field goals, an area usually dominated by San Diego. After all, their kicker held the record for consecutive field goals coming into the game. That record was shattered horribly, as Nate Kaeding missed all three of his attempts, causing the Chargers to lose 17-14.
It looked dismal for San Diego early in the fourth quarter. They trailed 17-7 after scoring the first touchdown, and they hadn't been able to move the ball well since the first quarter. The Jets blitzes weren't upsetting Philip Rivers too much, but he was releasing the ball quicker and with more force than his receivers were used to -- dropped balls were a steady phenomenom. The Chargers got life in the fourth quarter, though. After gaining excellent field position on a turnover, they moved close enough for an easy 40-yard field goal. Unfortunately, Kaeding pulled it to the right. The Chargers defense toughened against the Jets, preventing further scoring. The Chargers scored a touchdown with just over two minutes left, and life was again restored. An onside kick failed, though, and the Jets were able to gain a first down and run out the clock.
CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIPS
AFC: New York Jets (11-7) at Indianapolis Colts (15-2) : The Jets are feeling confident after escaping the Chargers, and think they can win. They aren't foolish enough to automatically assume victory after beating them in the regular season, because that was the Colts "give away" game that ended their unbeaten streak. The Jets know that most of the starters didn't play past early in the second quarter, so this will be a different Colts team.
The Jets rely on the blitz, and Peyton Manning is excellent in avoiding the blitz. The Ravens play a similar defense (after all, Coach Ryan installed that defense before assuming the Jets head position), and the Colts overcame that. Granted, the Ravens played them close, but the Colts finally broke them in the fourth quarter. The Jets have a bigger problem - they don't have the Ravens' running back tandem. Without the ability to gain 200+ yards rushing, they will have to rely on rookie QB Mark Sanchez more. That sounds ominous to me. I like Manning and company's ability to score, even under adversity, and I don't see the Jets able to come back from a deficit. COLTS, 24-10
NFC: Minnesota Vikings (13-4) at New Orleans Saints (14-3) : This game has the potential to be another offensive showdown, but I think the defenses will have a say in this one. The Vikings like to pressure the quarterback by stacking the sides and pulling around guards. The Saints believe in better pass coverage, making it hard for teams to get long plays. Against these opponents, both strategies have pros and cons. Certainly the Saints coverage will cause Favre to either force plays, leading to interceptions, or hold on too late, leading to a sack. However, that weakens the line, opening up Adrian Peterson to have a strong game. The Vikings approach gives line support to slow Reggie Bush and the running game, but it opens Bush and Jeremy Shockey as outlet receivers so that Drew Brees can avoid the sack.
I think the most important offensive tools in this game will be Adrian Peterson and the Saints' short passing game. Peterson could gain nearly 200 yards. If Favre can prevent serious errors, that will make the Vikings a threat. Drew Brees is likely to throw over forty times in the game, and will find Bush and Shockey his favorite targets. If Bush can avoid fumbling the ball, the Saints will control the pace of the game.
Reggie seems to be controlling his fumbling better this season, while Favre still can get into interception trouble when pressured. I think the Saints will play the more flawless game, and capture the victory, allowing the Saints their first Super Bowl trip EVER. SAINTS, 27-24
Monday, January 11, 2010
NCAA 2009 Final Top 25
With the bowl season over, let's see how the bowls affected the Top 25:
Post-Bowl position [pre-bowl position]
1. Alabama Crimson Tide (14-0) [1] : The Tide win their first National Title in thirty years with a convincing win over Texas. Although QB Greg McElroy was 2 for 12 in passing, the Longhorns couldn't stop their running attack; the Tide had TWO 100-yard rushers in the game!
2. Florida Gators (13-1) [6] : A dominating win in the Sugar Bowl proves that the SEC Championship was REALLY the battle of Number One v Number Two!
3. Boise State Broncos (14-0) [3] : The Fiesta Bowl was the most exciting BCS bowl game of the postseason, and the Broncos proved to be the better BCS buster! They also spoiled the Mountain West Conference's bid to go unbeaten in the bowls.
4. Texas Longhorns (13-1) [2] : The Longhorns played very well considering they lost QB Colt McCoy in their first drive
5. TCU Horned Frogs (12-1) [4] : Admirable performance for the Horned Frogs. Was it good enough to help convince the BCS bosses to grant the Mountain West Conference winner an automatic bid?
6. Cincinnati Bearcats (12-1) [5] : Their defense couldn't halt Tim Tebow in his final collegiate game
7. Ohio State Buckeyes (11-2) [9] : The Big Ten won the Rose Bowl! 'Nuff said.
8. Iowa Hawkeyes (11-2) [10] : Iowa proved stronger than Georgia Tech in the Orange Bowl. The Hawkeyes came out swinging, instead of needing a quarter or two to get motivated, and they never trailed.
9. BYU Cougars (11-2) [11] : The Mountain West runner-up was most impressive in their Las Vegas Bowl win
10. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (11-3) [8] : The ACC winner was outgunned by Iowa
11. Virginia Tech Hokies (10-3) [14] : They slaughtered Tennessee in the Chik-fil-A (formerly Peach) Bowl
12. Penn State Nittany Lions (11-2) [12] : It was tight, but their defense proved tougher than LSU to escape an attempted comeback
13. Oregon Ducks (10-3) [7] : Their offense couldn't get moving past Ohio State Buckeyes
14. Central Michigan Chippewas (12-2) [13] : They needed two overtimes to get past Troy
15. Utah Utes (10-3) [17] : Outscored Cal in an highlight-filled Poinsettia Bowl
16. Pittsburgh Panthers (10-3) [16] : Same score against North Carolina as Penn State had against LSU, but that score was due more to lackluster performance and turnovers than outstanding defense. Still, there is no denying that Dave Wannstedt has turned this program around
17. Nebraska Cornhuskers (10-4) [20] : Registered the only shutout of the bowl season, and they aren't even known for a stingy defense!
18. Oklahoma Sooners (10-3) [19] : Gave Stanford the "heave-ho" in the Sun Bowl
19. Wisconsin Badgers (10-3) [21] : Started off the Big Ten's winning bowl record
20. Houston Cougars (10-4) [15] : Destroyed by Air Force, but it's always hard for the non-military school to win the Armed Forces Bowl
21. Navy Midshipmen (9-4) [NP] : We have two military academies in the Top 25, a rare event indeed! Navy trounced Missouri and ended up as the top rushing school in the nation
22. LSU Tigers (9-4) [18] : Fought hard, but came up short against Penn State
23. Ole Miss Rebels (9-4) [NP] : They shut down one of the most prolific scoring offenses in the country
24. Texas Tech Red Raiders (9-4) [24] : They beat Michigan State without Mike Leach, but the Spartans were without 26 players, including their three best offensive stars. The fact that the Spartans still scored 31 points is telling about the Raiders lack of defense
25. Miami Hurricanes (9-4) [21] : They disappointed the home crowd in the Citrus Bowl as Wisconsin beat them
Conference Bowl performances:
1. Mountain West (4-1) : Boise State spoiled their attempt to go unbeaten twice in three years, but they still have the best overall bowl record over the past four years. No wonder the BCS is considering granting them an automatic bid.
2. Big East (4-2) : Despite concern when Miami, Virginia Tech, and Boston College emigrated to the ACC, the Big East has done better in bowls than the ACC since that time.
3. SEC (6-4) : Ever dominant in post-season play, the SEC struggled more this year.
4. Big Ten (4-3) : Great to see them get a winning bowl record, and capture the Rose Bowl title!
5. Big XII (4-4) : Not a great bowl year for this traditionally strong conference. The Oklahoma State loss was a shocker, Texas Tech struggled against a weakened Michigan State team, Navy ran all over Missouri, and Georgia manhandled A&M. Oklahoma and Nebraska were really the only bright spots.
6. WAC (2-2) : Boise State's victory pulled them to an even record, helping to erase the stings of the Fresno State and Nevada losses. Idaho needed a last minute two-point conversion to beat Bowling Green
7. Sun Belt (1-1) : Troy nearly made it a perfect bowl season for this weak conference - or maybe I should stop using that label
8. ACC (3-4) : Another down year for this conference, who has struggled in bowl games in recent years
9. Conference USA (2-4) : Up and down in bowl performances, they suffered some massive letdowns by Central Florida and Houston. East Carolina's overtime loss to Arkansas was a disappointment, too.
10. Pac-10 (2-5) : Once again, this conference is near the bottom. Usually they redeem themselves with a Rose Bowl win, but they don't even have that this year. USC and UCLA were the only winners, again shining the spotlight on southern California.
11. MAC (1-4) : They beat other conferences in the regular season early, but couldn't carry that power into the bowl season.
Bowl highlights
Here are some random thoughts about the 2009-2010 bowl season:
Post-Bowl position [pre-bowl position]
1. Alabama Crimson Tide (14-0) [1] : The Tide win their first National Title in thirty years with a convincing win over Texas. Although QB Greg McElroy was 2 for 12 in passing, the Longhorns couldn't stop their running attack; the Tide had TWO 100-yard rushers in the game!
2. Florida Gators (13-1) [6] : A dominating win in the Sugar Bowl proves that the SEC Championship was REALLY the battle of Number One v Number Two!
3. Boise State Broncos (14-0) [3] : The Fiesta Bowl was the most exciting BCS bowl game of the postseason, and the Broncos proved to be the better BCS buster! They also spoiled the Mountain West Conference's bid to go unbeaten in the bowls.
4. Texas Longhorns (13-1) [2] : The Longhorns played very well considering they lost QB Colt McCoy in their first drive
5. TCU Horned Frogs (12-1) [4] : Admirable performance for the Horned Frogs. Was it good enough to help convince the BCS bosses to grant the Mountain West Conference winner an automatic bid?
6. Cincinnati Bearcats (12-1) [5] : Their defense couldn't halt Tim Tebow in his final collegiate game
7. Ohio State Buckeyes (11-2) [9] : The Big Ten won the Rose Bowl! 'Nuff said.
8. Iowa Hawkeyes (11-2) [10] : Iowa proved stronger than Georgia Tech in the Orange Bowl. The Hawkeyes came out swinging, instead of needing a quarter or two to get motivated, and they never trailed.
9. BYU Cougars (11-2) [11] : The Mountain West runner-up was most impressive in their Las Vegas Bowl win
10. Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (11-3) [8] : The ACC winner was outgunned by Iowa
11. Virginia Tech Hokies (10-3) [14] : They slaughtered Tennessee in the Chik-fil-A (formerly Peach) Bowl
12. Penn State Nittany Lions (11-2) [12] : It was tight, but their defense proved tougher than LSU to escape an attempted comeback
13. Oregon Ducks (10-3) [7] : Their offense couldn't get moving past Ohio State Buckeyes
14. Central Michigan Chippewas (12-2) [13] : They needed two overtimes to get past Troy
15. Utah Utes (10-3) [17] : Outscored Cal in an highlight-filled Poinsettia Bowl
16. Pittsburgh Panthers (10-3) [16] : Same score against North Carolina as Penn State had against LSU, but that score was due more to lackluster performance and turnovers than outstanding defense. Still, there is no denying that Dave Wannstedt has turned this program around
17. Nebraska Cornhuskers (10-4) [20] : Registered the only shutout of the bowl season, and they aren't even known for a stingy defense!
18. Oklahoma Sooners (10-3) [19] : Gave Stanford the "heave-ho" in the Sun Bowl
19. Wisconsin Badgers (10-3) [21] : Started off the Big Ten's winning bowl record
20. Houston Cougars (10-4) [15] : Destroyed by Air Force, but it's always hard for the non-military school to win the Armed Forces Bowl
21. Navy Midshipmen (9-4) [NP] : We have two military academies in the Top 25, a rare event indeed! Navy trounced Missouri and ended up as the top rushing school in the nation
22. LSU Tigers (9-4) [18] : Fought hard, but came up short against Penn State
23. Ole Miss Rebels (9-4) [NP] : They shut down one of the most prolific scoring offenses in the country
24. Texas Tech Red Raiders (9-4) [24] : They beat Michigan State without Mike Leach, but the Spartans were without 26 players, including their three best offensive stars. The fact that the Spartans still scored 31 points is telling about the Raiders lack of defense
25. Miami Hurricanes (9-4) [21] : They disappointed the home crowd in the Citrus Bowl as Wisconsin beat them
Conference Bowl performances:
1. Mountain West (4-1) : Boise State spoiled their attempt to go unbeaten twice in three years, but they still have the best overall bowl record over the past four years. No wonder the BCS is considering granting them an automatic bid.
2. Big East (4-2) : Despite concern when Miami, Virginia Tech, and Boston College emigrated to the ACC, the Big East has done better in bowls than the ACC since that time.
3. SEC (6-4) : Ever dominant in post-season play, the SEC struggled more this year.
4. Big Ten (4-3) : Great to see them get a winning bowl record, and capture the Rose Bowl title!
5. Big XII (4-4) : Not a great bowl year for this traditionally strong conference. The Oklahoma State loss was a shocker, Texas Tech struggled against a weakened Michigan State team, Navy ran all over Missouri, and Georgia manhandled A&M. Oklahoma and Nebraska were really the only bright spots.
6. WAC (2-2) : Boise State's victory pulled them to an even record, helping to erase the stings of the Fresno State and Nevada losses. Idaho needed a last minute two-point conversion to beat Bowling Green
7. Sun Belt (1-1) : Troy nearly made it a perfect bowl season for this weak conference - or maybe I should stop using that label
8. ACC (3-4) : Another down year for this conference, who has struggled in bowl games in recent years
9. Conference USA (2-4) : Up and down in bowl performances, they suffered some massive letdowns by Central Florida and Houston. East Carolina's overtime loss to Arkansas was a disappointment, too.
10. Pac-10 (2-5) : Once again, this conference is near the bottom. Usually they redeem themselves with a Rose Bowl win, but they don't even have that this year. USC and UCLA were the only winners, again shining the spotlight on southern California.
11. MAC (1-4) : They beat other conferences in the regular season early, but couldn't carry that power into the bowl season.
Bowl highlights
Here are some random thoughts about the 2009-2010 bowl season:
- I felt the matchups were very good this year. We had a few blowouts, but we had many more close games, including two overtime and two DOUBLE overtime thrillers.
- I was very proud of my Big Ten conference. Every team played well, even the losers. Minnesota only gave Iowa State one good quarter, it's just unfortunate their offense couldn't get more than a field goal in the second half. Northwestern had TWO chances to win their game against Auburn, despite SIX turnovers. They definitely humbled the Auburn defense in the fourth quarter. Even Michigan State played well, despite losing so many players due to disciplinary reasons (14 academically ineligible and the others suspended after a rowdy campus party - don't you just love the discipline practiced by Midwestern schools? Too bad Florida, Texas, and California schools can't emulate them)
- Most exciting finish: Tied between the Humanitarian Bowl and Outback Bowl. Auburn seemed to have the Outback Bowl in hand early in the fourth quarter, so I switched to the Gator Bowl (I had the Capital One already on my second television). However, following the Outback online, I discovered Northwestern's comeback, and switched back. Northwestern's amazing comeback was capped by a late field goal, but it went wide. It happened again in overtime, allowing Auburn to escape with a three-point win. In the Humanitarian Bowl, Bowling Green scored a touchdown and led by six with less than a minute and a half left. After the PAT and resultant kick-off, there was only 1:16 on the clock. Yet the Idaho Vandals moved the ball down and scored a touchdown. Deciding for an outright win instead of a tie, the Vandals attempted a two-point conversion. They succeeded, and beat the Falcons by one point.
- Most balanced team: Has to be Nebraska. The offense scored 33 points, the defense didn't allow a score, and they had only three penalties all game.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
NFL Playoffs 2010 - Wildcard weekend
All of the preparation has led to this - the start of the NFL playoffs! Strangely, all of the opening weekend games are rematches of earlier games, and THREE of them pit the same teams who played each other the last week of the season. That has happened only once before in league history! Moreover, I feel the same results will occur, despite having played the teams and knowing what's in store.
Saturday Jan 9th
#5 New York Jets (9-7) at #4 Cincinnati Bengals (10-6): The Jets ended the regular season very strongly. Of all of the AFC playoff teams, the Jets are the team with the most momentum. However, momentum alone will not win playoff games. "Defense wins championships" they say, and that rings true in the NFL. No team in AFC has a better defense than the Jets. If Mark Sanchez can avoid making costly mistakes, the Jets stand a good chance to win. However, the Bengals are very opportunistic. If Sanchez does make a mistake, they'll make him pay for it. Can Sanchez handle the "big stage" of the playoffs? If this was any other rookie, I'd question that. However, Sanchez comes from USC, who play "big stage" games every year. He can handle the pressure, and avoid screwing up enough for the defense to win the game. JETS, 20-16
#6 Philadelphia Eagles (11-5) at #3 Dallas Cowboys (11-5): The Eagles return the site of their most horrific defeat of the season, the 24-0 shellacking administered by the Cowboys last week. That game cost them the number two seed, the NFC East title, and a home game. I don't think the Eagles will be skunked again, but I also don't think they'll win. The Eagles have looked lackluster in recent weeks, and the Cowboys even beat them earlier in the season, when the Eagles were playing well. The Cowboys shrugged off their "December curse" this year, and I think Coach Wade Phillips will be successfully able to win his first playoff game as a head coach. As the Cardinals proved last year, playoff runs make for great "curse breakers." COWBOYS, 27-14
Sunday Jan 10th
#6 Baltimore Ravens (9-7) at #3 New England Patriots (10-6): The Pats may not lost last week, but nobody knows how to prepare for the playoffs better than Bill Belichick. The Ravens will play tough, and I'm almost tempted to pick them, but I like the Patriots in the postseason. PATS, 23-20
#5 Green Bay Packers (11-5) at #4 Arizona Cardinals (10-6): After the two weeks that the Pack has had, is there ANYONE who truly believes the Cardinals can beat them? I didn't think so. PACK, 34-20
Saturday Jan 9th
#5 New York Jets (9-7) at #4 Cincinnati Bengals (10-6): The Jets ended the regular season very strongly. Of all of the AFC playoff teams, the Jets are the team with the most momentum. However, momentum alone will not win playoff games. "Defense wins championships" they say, and that rings true in the NFL. No team in AFC has a better defense than the Jets. If Mark Sanchez can avoid making costly mistakes, the Jets stand a good chance to win. However, the Bengals are very opportunistic. If Sanchez does make a mistake, they'll make him pay for it. Can Sanchez handle the "big stage" of the playoffs? If this was any other rookie, I'd question that. However, Sanchez comes from USC, who play "big stage" games every year. He can handle the pressure, and avoid screwing up enough for the defense to win the game. JETS, 20-16
#6 Philadelphia Eagles (11-5) at #3 Dallas Cowboys (11-5): The Eagles return the site of their most horrific defeat of the season, the 24-0 shellacking administered by the Cowboys last week. That game cost them the number two seed, the NFC East title, and a home game. I don't think the Eagles will be skunked again, but I also don't think they'll win. The Eagles have looked lackluster in recent weeks, and the Cowboys even beat them earlier in the season, when the Eagles were playing well. The Cowboys shrugged off their "December curse" this year, and I think Coach Wade Phillips will be successfully able to win his first playoff game as a head coach. As the Cardinals proved last year, playoff runs make for great "curse breakers." COWBOYS, 27-14
Sunday Jan 10th
#6 Baltimore Ravens (9-7) at #3 New England Patriots (10-6): The Pats may not lost last week, but nobody knows how to prepare for the playoffs better than Bill Belichick. The Ravens will play tough, and I'm almost tempted to pick them, but I like the Patriots in the postseason. PATS, 23-20
#5 Green Bay Packers (11-5) at #4 Arizona Cardinals (10-6): After the two weeks that the Pack has had, is there ANYONE who truly believes the Cardinals can beat them? I didn't think so. PACK, 34-20
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
NFL Power Rankings - Week 17
Final rankings of the season! I'll admit, I fudged the numbers just slightly (and ONLY just slightly) to get all 12 playoff teams in the top 12. It so rarely happens, and it was so close, that the temptation was too great.
This week's rankings [Last week's position]
1. Indianapolis Colts (14-2) [1]
2. San Diego Chargers (13-3) [2] : Coming into the playoffs on strong performances!
3. New Orleans Saints (13-3) [3] : Three consecutive losses coming into the playoffs does not look good
4. Minnesota Vikings (12-4) [6] : Blew away the Giants!
5. Green Bay Packers (11-5) [7] : Hottest team in the NFC going into the playoffs
6. Dallas Cowboys (11-5) [8] : Great shut-out of the Eagles to capture the NFC East crown
7. New England Patriots (10-6) [4] : Trouble - the Pats were TRYING to win against Buffalo
8. Philadelphia Eagles (11-5) [5] : Very few teams can be shut out going into the playoffs and win the next week
9. Arizona Cardinals (10-6) [9] : Big loss to Green Bay, but they were resting many of their stars
10. New York Jets (9-7) [11] : HUGE shut-out of the Bengals
11. Cincinnati Bengals (10-6) [10] : The Bengals WEREN'T resting their guys, and the Jets shut them out
12. Baltimore Ravens (9-7) [13] : The Ravens captured the sixth seed in the AFC with a good game against Oakland
13. Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7) [12] : The defending Super Bowl champs finished well, but that late season slide killed their playoff hopes
14. Houston Texans (9-7) [14] : The Texans missed out on their first playoff berth in team history, but it was a fine year regardless
15. Atlanta Falcons (9-7) [17]
16. San Francisco 49ers (8-8) [16] : Mike Singletary has this team on the way up. Watch out for them next season!
17. Carolina Panthers (8-8) [18] : Still playing spoiler
18. Denver Broncos (8-8) [15] : Only the third team in NFL history to start 6-0 and miss the playoffs
19. Tennessee Titans (8-8) [22] : Vince Young has guaranteed himself the starting role next year
20. Chicago Bears (7-9) [20] : Is Lovie's job in jeopardy?
21. Miami Dolphins (7-9) [21]
22. New York Giants (8-8) [19] : Starting 5-0 and finishing 8-8? Blame the defense, which is why they're in the market for a new coordinator
23. Cleveland Browns (6-10) [24]
24. Buffalo Bills (6-10) [27] : The entire coaching staff was fired, which seems a little extreme! Ryan Fitzpatrick looks to be their quarterback of the future.
25. Jacksonville Jaguars (7-9) [23]
26. Seattle Seahawks (5-11) [26]
27. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12) [30] : Strong conclusion to the season, but they need to win when it matters
28. Tampa Bay Bucs (3-13) [25]
29. Oakland Raiders (5-11) [29] : Tom Cable will likely get the ax, but at least he had the guts to stand up to Al Davis and pull worthless JaMarcus Russell
30. Washington Redskins (4-12) [28] : Daniel Snyder didn't even wait 24 hours to can Jim Zorn
31. Detroit Lions (2-14) [31]
32. St Louis Rams (1-15) [32]
Division rankings [Last Week's position]
1. AFC North [1] : Two playoff teams and an improving Steelers team provide this division with a nice boost
2. AFC South [3] : They have the top seed in the AFC and strong Houston and Tennessee teams
3. NFC North [6] : Two playoff teams and Chicago's improvement helped this division
4. AFC East [4] : Two playoff teams are the only good things about this division
5. NFC East [2] : Last division with two playoff teams, the collapse of the Giants hurt them
6. NFC South [5] : If the Saints could have avoided their downward spiral, the division might have finished better
7. AFC West [7] : San Diego is hot, but the others are forgettable
8. NFC West [8] : Not even their division winner is worth much attention
This week's rankings [Last week's position]
1. Indianapolis Colts (14-2) [1]
2. San Diego Chargers (13-3) [2] : Coming into the playoffs on strong performances!
3. New Orleans Saints (13-3) [3] : Three consecutive losses coming into the playoffs does not look good
4. Minnesota Vikings (12-4) [6] : Blew away the Giants!
5. Green Bay Packers (11-5) [7] : Hottest team in the NFC going into the playoffs
6. Dallas Cowboys (11-5) [8] : Great shut-out of the Eagles to capture the NFC East crown
7. New England Patriots (10-6) [4] : Trouble - the Pats were TRYING to win against Buffalo
8. Philadelphia Eagles (11-5) [5] : Very few teams can be shut out going into the playoffs and win the next week
9. Arizona Cardinals (10-6) [9] : Big loss to Green Bay, but they were resting many of their stars
10. New York Jets (9-7) [11] : HUGE shut-out of the Bengals
11. Cincinnati Bengals (10-6) [10] : The Bengals WEREN'T resting their guys, and the Jets shut them out
12. Baltimore Ravens (9-7) [13] : The Ravens captured the sixth seed in the AFC with a good game against Oakland
13. Pittsburgh Steelers (9-7) [12] : The defending Super Bowl champs finished well, but that late season slide killed their playoff hopes
14. Houston Texans (9-7) [14] : The Texans missed out on their first playoff berth in team history, but it was a fine year regardless
15. Atlanta Falcons (9-7) [17]
16. San Francisco 49ers (8-8) [16] : Mike Singletary has this team on the way up. Watch out for them next season!
17. Carolina Panthers (8-8) [18] : Still playing spoiler
18. Denver Broncos (8-8) [15] : Only the third team in NFL history to start 6-0 and miss the playoffs
19. Tennessee Titans (8-8) [22] : Vince Young has guaranteed himself the starting role next year
20. Chicago Bears (7-9) [20] : Is Lovie's job in jeopardy?
21. Miami Dolphins (7-9) [21]
22. New York Giants (8-8) [19] : Starting 5-0 and finishing 8-8? Blame the defense, which is why they're in the market for a new coordinator
23. Cleveland Browns (6-10) [24]
24. Buffalo Bills (6-10) [27] : The entire coaching staff was fired, which seems a little extreme! Ryan Fitzpatrick looks to be their quarterback of the future.
25. Jacksonville Jaguars (7-9) [23]
26. Seattle Seahawks (5-11) [26]
27. Kansas City Chiefs (4-12) [30] : Strong conclusion to the season, but they need to win when it matters
28. Tampa Bay Bucs (3-13) [25]
29. Oakland Raiders (5-11) [29] : Tom Cable will likely get the ax, but at least he had the guts to stand up to Al Davis and pull worthless JaMarcus Russell
30. Washington Redskins (4-12) [28] : Daniel Snyder didn't even wait 24 hours to can Jim Zorn
31. Detroit Lions (2-14) [31]
32. St Louis Rams (1-15) [32]
Division rankings [Last Week's position]
1. AFC North [1] : Two playoff teams and an improving Steelers team provide this division with a nice boost
2. AFC South [3] : They have the top seed in the AFC and strong Houston and Tennessee teams
3. NFC North [6] : Two playoff teams and Chicago's improvement helped this division
4. AFC East [4] : Two playoff teams are the only good things about this division
5. NFC East [2] : Last division with two playoff teams, the collapse of the Giants hurt them
6. NFC South [5] : If the Saints could have avoided their downward spiral, the division might have finished better
7. AFC West [7] : San Diego is hot, but the others are forgettable
8. NFC West [8] : Not even their division winner is worth much attention
Friday, January 1, 2010
Putting a Leach on Leach?
Earlier this week, Texas Tech Mike Leach faced the ultimate indignity - being fired by the Chancellor after discussing player disciplinary issues. Basically, James Wood, a wide receiver for the Red Raiders, was sidelined with a concussion. Wood claims that Leach locked him in an electical cabinet in punishment. Coach Leach claims that Wood was kept in an observation room. Both people agree on the motive -- Wood wanted to play and Leach did not have medical approval. Wood complained to the Chancellor, who initially suspended Leach for the bowl game pending the outcome of an investigation. That investigation, as it turned out, was the Chancellor calling Leach into his office and asking him to justify his treatment of players.
Okay, let's examine this whole issue. There is absolutely no question about why Wood was held out of a game. No matter Leach's history, he was following new guidelines from both the NCAA and NFL regarding concussions. Due to some lawsuits and plenty of recent media coverage, protecting players with concussions is the new "in" thing. It used to be common for players to come back too soon from concussions. Pro teams and college athletic departments are being informed of studies showing the detrimental long-term effects that come from repeated head injuries, or stress and trauma experienced by a player who is still suffering from a concussion. Whether Leach wanted to or not, he was following new directives.
The initial fault, and perhaps most of the fault, clearly falls upon the student. The student had not been medically cleared to play, yet he wanted to. We're not sure if Leach did have to exert excessive discipline to keep the student off the field. I am a college professor, I know how pig-headed and irrational college students can be, and athletes are the worst. I'm sure Wood felt that he knew better than the coach and the trainers, and thus felt that his rights were being denied.
That likely led to his complaint. What happened next was an over-reaction by the Chancellor. Coach Leach has stated that the Chancellor was out to get him, and I'm not sure I'll disagree. While I don't know if it was a financial issue, as Coach Leach has stated, but the Chancellor automatically assumed that Leach had overstepped his authority. The entire inquiry by the Chancellor was an attempt to find out how extreme Leach had been treating his players, automatically assuming that Leach was doing something extreme. The Chancellor may have had reason, if Leach has a history of extreme behavior, but any scientist or researcher will tell you that the Chancellor committed a major error in his investigation -- he already started with an assumption of Leach's guilt, and was interested in the degree of it. That skews the inquiry, and removes any chance of Leach pleading innocence. The Chancellor states that Leach was uncooperative, and I'm sure that how it appeared to him.
I'm sure Mike Leach will find a job elsewhere - they did a tremendous job at Lubbock. The questions that remain are all based in Texas Tech - who will be the new coach, how will this affect the program, and does it open the door to Michigan State to win the Alamo Bowl? The Red Raiders have a poor record against the Big Ten, and had won only one bowl game before Leach's arrival. If they win, it'll be due to the playbook and attitudes instilled by Leach. If they lose, it was a major distraction, and bodes ill for the 2010 season.
Okay, let's examine this whole issue. There is absolutely no question about why Wood was held out of a game. No matter Leach's history, he was following new guidelines from both the NCAA and NFL regarding concussions. Due to some lawsuits and plenty of recent media coverage, protecting players with concussions is the new "in" thing. It used to be common for players to come back too soon from concussions. Pro teams and college athletic departments are being informed of studies showing the detrimental long-term effects that come from repeated head injuries, or stress and trauma experienced by a player who is still suffering from a concussion. Whether Leach wanted to or not, he was following new directives.
The initial fault, and perhaps most of the fault, clearly falls upon the student. The student had not been medically cleared to play, yet he wanted to. We're not sure if Leach did have to exert excessive discipline to keep the student off the field. I am a college professor, I know how pig-headed and irrational college students can be, and athletes are the worst. I'm sure Wood felt that he knew better than the coach and the trainers, and thus felt that his rights were being denied.
That likely led to his complaint. What happened next was an over-reaction by the Chancellor. Coach Leach has stated that the Chancellor was out to get him, and I'm not sure I'll disagree. While I don't know if it was a financial issue, as Coach Leach has stated, but the Chancellor automatically assumed that Leach had overstepped his authority. The entire inquiry by the Chancellor was an attempt to find out how extreme Leach had been treating his players, automatically assuming that Leach was doing something extreme. The Chancellor may have had reason, if Leach has a history of extreme behavior, but any scientist or researcher will tell you that the Chancellor committed a major error in his investigation -- he already started with an assumption of Leach's guilt, and was interested in the degree of it. That skews the inquiry, and removes any chance of Leach pleading innocence. The Chancellor states that Leach was uncooperative, and I'm sure that how it appeared to him.
I'm sure Mike Leach will find a job elsewhere - they did a tremendous job at Lubbock. The questions that remain are all based in Texas Tech - who will be the new coach, how will this affect the program, and does it open the door to Michigan State to win the Alamo Bowl? The Red Raiders have a poor record against the Big Ten, and had won only one bowl game before Leach's arrival. If they win, it'll be due to the playbook and attitudes instilled by Leach. If they lose, it was a major distraction, and bodes ill for the 2010 season.
NFL Week 17 picks
We have the final week to go. The AFC has some playoff spots for grabs while the NFC has seeds to determine, including which team has a first week bye. There's plenty on the line in many of these games, which should lead to great plays. Due to the holidays and bowl games there aren't any non-Sunday games (including Monday Night), so by Sunday night we'll know the playoff games.
Sunday early games:
Atlanta Falcons at Tampa Bay Bucs: The Bucs have won a couple of upsets in a row, but I don't think they'll get a third. Neither have playoff hopes, but the Falcons want to finish strongly. It's also likely to be Ryan's game back, so he'll want a good game. FALCONS, 27-17
Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions: Will the Bears suffer a letdown after their shocking Monday Night upset? I don't think so. The Lions are struggling. They are better than they've been since 2006, but they still can't compare with the Bears. Their pass rush is practically non-existent, so Cutler will be comfortable. When he's comfortable, he makes the plays. BEARS, 27-10
Indianapolis Colts at Buffalo Bills: The Colts will sit some of their key players, but the Bills should still lose. This isn't a top defense the Colts are facing, and last week's experience should help Painter. COLTS, 23-13
Jacksonville Jaguars at Cleveland Browns: Jacksonville is falling apart. Could they fall far enough for the Browns to beat them? Possibly, but I'll pick a close Jags win. JAGS, 20-16
New England Patriots at Houston Texans: There's little difference between the third seed and fourth seed for the opening playoff weekend, but it could make a difference later. Bill Belichik knows that, which is why the Patriots will battle hard for that third seed. The Texans need a victory, and then help, to reach the playoffs. I don't think that win will come, though. PATS, 24-20
New Orleans Saints at Carolina Panthers: The Saints gained the top seed last week, but they backed into it. They've had two tough losses, and they know how important it is to enter the playoffs on a win. They'll fight for this victory, and the Panthers are disarrayed enough that they should get it. SAINTS, 27-17
New York Giants at Minnesota Vikings: The Giants might want to help their division winner to get the second seed, but I don't think the Vikings will allow it. Their running game was off last week, and Favre hasn't been sharp for the past three weeks. If Childress and Favre mended their fences this week, the Vikings should be motivated enough to win this one. VIKES, 31-20
Pittsburgh Steelers at Miami Dolphins: Pittsburgh still has a shot at the playoffs, and they'll make the most of it. Miami's wildcard won't fool the Steelers defense, and the Dolphins secondary can be burned. STEELERS, 17-10
San Francisco 49ers at St Louis Rams: Anyone facing the Rams has to be favored to win, and the 49ers defense just sweetens the deal. 49ERS, 23-3
Sunday late games:
Baltimore Ravens at Oakland Raiders: Baltimore has a shot at the playoffs, which gives them enough incentive to win this game. RAVENS, 16-6
Green Bay Packers at Arizona Cardinals: Green Bay can't get the division title, but a strong playoff seed is their goal. The Cardinals defense hasn't been consistent, and I think the Pack will stretch it. The Cardinals offense will keep it close, though. PACK, 27-23
Kansas City Chiefs at Denver Broncos: The Broncos are going without leading receiver Brandon Marshall, but they still have enough receivers to overcome the pitiful Chiefs defense. The Broncos get a playoff berth with the win. BRONCOS, 23-9
Philadelphia Eagles at Dallas Cowboys: The Cowboys have the momentum right now, and playing at home should help them. The Eagles are talented, but they've made some key errors at important times. If they do that in this game, they give the division title to the Cowboys. COWBOYS, 20-17
Tennessee Titans at Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks defensive line isn't strong, which plays right into the hands of Vince Young and the Titans. TITANS, 20-16
Washington Redskins at San Diego Chargers: The Chargers have the second seed, so they'd be inclined to rest some key players. Even if they do that, I think they have enough tools to press the Redskins defense. CHARGERS, 20-13
Sunday evening - Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets: The Jets were given three Christmas gifts last week as all of the elements they needed to control their playoff destiny occurred. Now, they need to beat Cincy to finish it off. Both teams have strong defenses, so this will likely be a defensive battle. That actually favors Rex Ryan and the Jets. JETS, 16-13
Sunday early games:
Atlanta Falcons at Tampa Bay Bucs: The Bucs have won a couple of upsets in a row, but I don't think they'll get a third. Neither have playoff hopes, but the Falcons want to finish strongly. It's also likely to be Ryan's game back, so he'll want a good game. FALCONS, 27-17
Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions: Will the Bears suffer a letdown after their shocking Monday Night upset? I don't think so. The Lions are struggling. They are better than they've been since 2006, but they still can't compare with the Bears. Their pass rush is practically non-existent, so Cutler will be comfortable. When he's comfortable, he makes the plays. BEARS, 27-10
Indianapolis Colts at Buffalo Bills: The Colts will sit some of their key players, but the Bills should still lose. This isn't a top defense the Colts are facing, and last week's experience should help Painter. COLTS, 23-13
Jacksonville Jaguars at Cleveland Browns: Jacksonville is falling apart. Could they fall far enough for the Browns to beat them? Possibly, but I'll pick a close Jags win. JAGS, 20-16
New England Patriots at Houston Texans: There's little difference between the third seed and fourth seed for the opening playoff weekend, but it could make a difference later. Bill Belichik knows that, which is why the Patriots will battle hard for that third seed. The Texans need a victory, and then help, to reach the playoffs. I don't think that win will come, though. PATS, 24-20
New Orleans Saints at Carolina Panthers: The Saints gained the top seed last week, but they backed into it. They've had two tough losses, and they know how important it is to enter the playoffs on a win. They'll fight for this victory, and the Panthers are disarrayed enough that they should get it. SAINTS, 27-17
New York Giants at Minnesota Vikings: The Giants might want to help their division winner to get the second seed, but I don't think the Vikings will allow it. Their running game was off last week, and Favre hasn't been sharp for the past three weeks. If Childress and Favre mended their fences this week, the Vikings should be motivated enough to win this one. VIKES, 31-20
Pittsburgh Steelers at Miami Dolphins: Pittsburgh still has a shot at the playoffs, and they'll make the most of it. Miami's wildcard won't fool the Steelers defense, and the Dolphins secondary can be burned. STEELERS, 17-10
San Francisco 49ers at St Louis Rams: Anyone facing the Rams has to be favored to win, and the 49ers defense just sweetens the deal. 49ERS, 23-3
Sunday late games:
Baltimore Ravens at Oakland Raiders: Baltimore has a shot at the playoffs, which gives them enough incentive to win this game. RAVENS, 16-6
Green Bay Packers at Arizona Cardinals: Green Bay can't get the division title, but a strong playoff seed is their goal. The Cardinals defense hasn't been consistent, and I think the Pack will stretch it. The Cardinals offense will keep it close, though. PACK, 27-23
Kansas City Chiefs at Denver Broncos: The Broncos are going without leading receiver Brandon Marshall, but they still have enough receivers to overcome the pitiful Chiefs defense. The Broncos get a playoff berth with the win. BRONCOS, 23-9
Philadelphia Eagles at Dallas Cowboys: The Cowboys have the momentum right now, and playing at home should help them. The Eagles are talented, but they've made some key errors at important times. If they do that in this game, they give the division title to the Cowboys. COWBOYS, 20-17
Tennessee Titans at Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks defensive line isn't strong, which plays right into the hands of Vince Young and the Titans. TITANS, 20-16
Washington Redskins at San Diego Chargers: The Chargers have the second seed, so they'd be inclined to rest some key players. Even if they do that, I think they have enough tools to press the Redskins defense. CHARGERS, 20-13
Sunday evening - Cincinnati Bengals at New York Jets: The Jets were given three Christmas gifts last week as all of the elements they needed to control their playoff destiny occurred. Now, they need to beat Cincy to finish it off. Both teams have strong defenses, so this will likely be a defensive battle. That actually favors Rex Ryan and the Jets. JETS, 16-13
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