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cloudboy -> NFL Playoffs (1/12/2007 5:43:20 PM)
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The AFC playoff games this week promise to be better games than the Super Bowl itself.
>• The tidbit: The Colts ranked first in the AFC in offense (379.4 ypg), with the Ravens ranking first in the NFL in defense (264.1). It's the first meeting between a conference's top offense and defense in the divisional round since the 12-team playoff format began in 1990.<
This is quite an intriguing matchup, and I just don't think the Colts will get it done. Why? I think the homefield advantage and playing outside will adversely affect the Colts offense. Its also supposed to be somewhat wet and rainy. On the other hand I think the Ravens, unlike KC, will be able to effectively control the ball and put together long, sustained drives --- which will freshen up the defense and help the team win the field position battle.
Major curiosities: Will Manning get sacked? How many times? How many INTs will he throw. Will McNair raise the level of his game? Will Jamal Lewis top 100 yards?
If Peyton Manning loses, the pundits will hang the loss on him, which is stupid.
NE v. SD
All things being equal, I think LT affords SD a greater advantage than Tom Brady does to NE, who will be trying to play and win on the road. Antonio Gates catches seven balls in this one, maybe two for TDs off playaction fakes to LT.
From the NFC the Saints and CHI advance, and the NO v. PHI game will be the better of the two.
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