Championship Sunday Recap

Super Bowl LV is set as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Kansas City Chiefs punched their tickets to the Tampa. We will have plenty of time to preview the game and matchup, and before we get there, we have to take a look back on how these two teams got there.

NFC Championship Game

(5) Tampa Bay-31 (1) Green Bay-26

1) There is a lot to unpack here in this game. Let's start with the beginning of the game. Tom Brady was lights out in the first half. He led a touchdown drive on the opening drive of the game and hit Mike Evans with a TD pass to make it 7-0. From there, you knew Brady was locked in and this was going to be a game.

2) The game was fun in the first half and it was going back and forth. The Packers tied it up on an Aaron Rodgers touchdown pass to make it 7-7. The Bucs answered with a Leonard Fournette TD and it was 14-7. The Packers countered with a field goal, and it was 14-10. This has all the makings of a shootout and a classic based on the first half.

3) The key part of the game was near the end of the half. Down 14-10, the Packers were moving the ball near midfield when Rodgers got picked off and Tampa Bay took over. They converted a 4th and 3 on the drive (Ballsy move by Bruce Arians) and then somehow Brady hit Scotty Miller for a 39 yard TD with only 1 second left in the half and take a 21-10 lead into halftime. How in the hell do the Packers give that up? That was so inexcusable and at that point, I thought the Packers were in real, real trouble. 

4) The next sequence that turned the game was on the first drive of the second half, the Packers fumbled and Tampa Bay took over deep in GB territory. Brady hit Cameron Brate for a TD and it was 28-10. At that point, it was going to be hard to see the Packers coming back.

5) Green Bay did rally and Rodgers almost pulled off the comeback. Brady ended up throwing three picks in the second half. The Packers picked off Brady on back-to-back drives but the Packers didn't get a first down either time. After TB extended the lead to 31-23, the Packers drove down to the TB 8 yard line. This is the decision that will haunt the Packers all offseason. On 4th and goal, Green Bay head coach Matt LaFluer decided to kick a field goal and make it 31-26 instead of going for the TD with 2:05 left. I was shocked at the decision at the time and it was the wrong one in my opinion. GB kicked the field goal and Rodgers never got the ball back again. Bad move on LaFleur's part.

6) The Bucs ran out the clock and the big play was when the Packers got called for a pass interference on 3rd and 4 with 1:46 to play in the game. It was definitely an interference call, but the problem was that the officials weren't calling anything all game long and then they made this call in this spot that could have decided the game.

7) This is a bitter defeat for the Packers and Aaron Rodgers. To lose this game at home with their best shot to go to the Super Bowl is a very disappointing outcome for them. Rodgers looked gutted after the game. The Packers got outcoached, outplayed, outschemed in every unit. Rodgers played well but he wasn't great. This loss with sting this franchise for a long time.

8) Give the Bucs credit. I thought they would be a 9-7/10-6 Wild Card team with Brady, but I never thought they would go to the Super Bowl, and I did not think they were going to beat the Packers in Lambeau Field in this game. Give Bruce Arians credit for doing a good job coaching this game and this team with Brady and all the other vets that were brought in. Give Todd Bowles credit for doing a really good job with the defense in this game. The Bucs defense was better than the GB offense and when you have Tom Brady as your QB, you can win any game-no matter what the situation or where it is played. The Bucs head to their second Super Bowl appearance and become the first ever team to play in the host city and their own stadium. 

AFC Championship Game

(1) Kansas City-38 (2) Buffalo-24

1) The Bills had some hope in the beginning when they got a field goal, forced a three and out, and got a fumbled punt inside the five yard line. A TD pass from Josh Allen to Dawson Knox made it 9-0 after the missed PAT, and there was a thought that maybe this could turn the Bills way. From that point, the Chiefs went on a 38-15 run and ran away with the game. Even when you get an early, two-score lead on them, it is just too hard to hold it.

2) Kansas City was just too much for Buffalo. It is the same story with KC every single week. The Bills couldn't stop Travis Kelce and had no answer for Tyreek Hill. Then, when they had them covered, Pat Mahomes makes a great play and keeps the drive alive. Once they got that first TD and were down 9-7, you knew it was going to be hard to stop them.

3) The Bills needed an amazing, Earth-shattering performance by Josh Allen to win this game, and he couldn't pull it off. He didn't play horrible, but he certainly didn't play as good as he needed to in order to pull out this game.

4) This game was pretty boring once the Chiefs took the lead and got in control. The Bills were settling for field goals while the Chiefs were putting up touchdowns. The Chiefs handled the Bills convincingly twice this season-once in October and in this AFC Championship Game. They are just too good for anyone in the AFC at this point.

5) The Bills had a dream season. They won 13 games, won the AFC East, and won a playoff game for the first time since 1995. The gap is still far between them and the Chiefs, but with Josh Allen at the helm, the Bills have to be excited that they will have a chance to make a run next season and beyond.

6) These are salad days for the Chiefs. Andy Reid and Pat Mahomes have put them in elite status in the NFL. They have won their 6th playoff game in the three years that Mahomes has started, and they are heading to their second straight Super Bowl. The Chiefs are looking to become back-to-back Super Bowl champs for the first time since the 2003-2004 New England Patriots. 

Championship Sunday Picks

We have arrived at Championship Sunday in the NFL. The final four teams are set. Tom Brady and the Buccaneers head to Lambeau Field to take on Aaron Rodgers and the Packers in the NFC Championship. Josh Allen and the Bills head to Arrowhead Stadium to take on the Chiefs. Four really good teams, four really good QBs, and two very attractive matchups. As usual, I like to rank the best possible Super Bowl matchups before we get to Championship Sunday. Here are the possible Super Bowl matchups based on storylines and subplots ranked from 1 to 4 (1 being the best and 4 being the weakest):

1) Chiefs vs. Packers- Pat Mahomes goes up against Aaron Rodgers in a rematch of Super Bowl I, the number 1 seeds in each conference, and the two MVP candidates.

2) Chiefs vs. Buccaneers- Mahomes and the Chiefs go for back-to-back titles against Tom Brady and the Bucs. Brady goes for his seventh Super Bowl, and his first without Bill Belichick and the Patriots

3) Bills vs. Packers- Buffalo reaches its' first Super Bowl since 1993, and this matchup features superstar Aaron Rodgers going up against emerging star Josh Allen. It also features two really good and loyal fanbases.

4) Bills vs. Buccaneers- Buffalo reaches the Super Bowl for the first time since 1993 and they have to face Tom Brady, who finally left the AFC East after dominating the Bills all those years in New England. 

Last Week's Record (1-3)

Playoff Record (4-6)

Overall 2020 Record (130-129-12)

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

NFC Championship Game

(5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers at (1) Green Bay Packers

A Case for the Bucs: They have the greatest QB of all time in Tom Brady and they are playing as well as they have played all season long. They took care of business in Washington in the Wild Card round and did the same against the Saints last week. They have a lot of confidence right now, and they are rolling. You have the this team that is loaded with all star players, and now they are one win away from going to the Super Bowl. They blew the Packers out in the regular season, so they use that as motivation. It will be cold but Brady is used to that from all his days in New England, so that shouldn't be a factor. There is a real scenario that we could see Tom Brady heading to another Super Bowl on Sunday night.

A Case for the Packers: Aaron Rodgers is playing lights out this season and he continued that last week in the big Divisional Playoff win over the Rams. Plus, the Packers are at home for the first time in a NFC Championship Game since 2007. This is actually Rodgers first Championship Game at Lambeau Field as a starter. Rodgers has lost the last three NFC Title Games, and he has to be due to break through and get to another Super Bowl. This Packers team has a different vibe than last year's team that got crushed by the Niners in the NFC Championship last year. It is hard for me to think that they will blow this opportunity. It just feels like this is Rodgers and the Packers year. 

Prediction: GREEN BAY (-3) over Tampa Bay: Aaron Rodgers ends his three game losing streak in Conference Championship games, and he leads the Packers to their sixth Super Bowl appearance in franchise history, and their first trip since 2010. 

Final Score: Packers-38 Bucs-24

AFC Championship Game

(2) Buffalo Bills at (1) Kansas City Chiefs

A Case for the Bills: The Bills are having a dream season. Everything has clicked for them this year. Josh Allen is a MVP candidate, the Stephon Diggs trade has been a huge success, and they are well-coached with Sean McDermott. The Bills Mafia is out in full force and they are back in the AFC Championship Game for the first time since 1993. They really didn't play their best and they still beat the Colts and the Ravens in the first two playoff games. Plus, they are the underdog and they have nothing to lose. Many people believe that Pat Mahomes will play after suffering a concussion last week, but if he doesn't, then the Bills are the favorites to win the game hands down. Also, if they lose, then it was still a remarkable season. More pressure is on the Chiefs because they are the favorites and at home. I also don't think the crowd will be much of a factor with the limited amount of fans. The Bills can go out there, play fast and loose, and give it everything they have. In a lot of ways, it feels like it is their year in the AFC.

A Case for the Chiefs: They are the best team in the NFL all year long. They are 23-1 with Pat Mahomes as their starting QB the last two seasons. If Mahomes passes the concussion protocol and plays, and everyone thinks he will, it will be hard to bet against him and the Chiefs because he really has played amazing in his whole career. He hasn't had a really bad game in a big spot in his three years as starter. I think KC's defense is underrated, and I think they matchup well with the Buffalo offense. The Chiefs defense always seems to play really well in these big games lately. They are just the better team, and at this point it is just hard to bet against them and Mahomes. 

Prediction: KANSAS CITY(-3) over Buffalo- The Bills dream season ends in the AFC Title Game as Andy Reid, Pat Mahomes, and the Chiefs go back to their second straight Super Bowl and the fourth overall appearance for the franchise.

Final Score: Chiefs-33 Bills-20

Divisional Playoffs Review

 The final four in the NFL is set for Championship Sunday. In the AFC, the top two seeds meet in Kansas City as the #1 seed Chiefs host the #2 seed Bills. In the NFC, the #1 seed Packers host the #5 seed Buccaneers. There is plenty of star power at QB in this round as Pat Mahomes, Tom Brady, Aaron Rodgers, and emerging star Josh Allen have all lead their teams this far. Here is my recap of Divisional Playoff Weekend.....

NFC Divisional Playoff Game

(1)Green Bay Packers-32 (6)Los Angeles Rams-18

1) You have to give Aaron Rodgers credit. Once again he proved that is one of the best QBs on the planet and one of the best QBs all time. He played great and he made the throw that put the game away when he hit Allen Lazard on a 58 yard TD pass to give the Packers a 32-18 lead with 6:52 left in the game. He gets to his fourth NFC Championship Game as a starter, but this is the first time he is at home as a starter for a title game.

2) I have been critical of Packers head coach Matt LaFleur in the past, but I have to give him credit. He did a nice job with his gameplan for this game. I loved the play calling and the mix of run, pass, and play-action. The first TD of the game from Rodgers to Davante Adams was a sweet play down by the goaline. 

3) The Rams played hard and were valiant but in the end it just wasn't enough. Cooper Kupp missed the game with a knee injury, Aaron Donald was limited with a rib injury, and they were down by 15 in the third quarter, but they didn't roll over. They fought back into the game and got it 25-18 after a TD and sweet two-point play. They played hard until the end when Rodgers hit Lazard to put the game away. Sean McVay does a great job with that group, and I think they will be back in the mix next year.

4) The Packers return to the NFC Championship Game for the second year in a row. Last year, they were run over and embarrassed by the 49ers in San Francisco. This year, they got the bye in the first round, won their Divisional Playoff game, and now are hosting the NFC Title Game for the first time since 2007. It is hard to see them not getting back to the Super Bowl this time around.

AFC Divisional Playoff Game

(2) Buffalo Bills-17 (5) Baltimore Ravens-3

1) The play of the game was the 101 yard interception return by Taron Johnson with 41 seconds left in the third quarter. It completely changed the game. The Ravens looked like they were going in to tie the game at 10, but Johnson stepped in front of a Lamar Jackson pass and took it to the house to give the Bills the 17-3 lead. 

2) The Bills have not played their best game so far this postseason, and they still have advanced to the AFC Championship Game. The weather was really difficult on Saturday night in Buffalo. The wind was really having an effect on both teams. Josh Allen played well but they only put up one offensive touchdown when Allen hit Stephon Diggs for a 3 yard TD early in the third quarter. It is all about winning and advancing in the playoffs and no one cares how you do it.

3) The Ravens offense was bad on Saturday night. They had multiple bad snaps on shotguns to Lamar Jackson and their passing game was not good. Jackson was bad, their receivers and running backs dropped passes and looked out of sync, and K Justin Tucker missed two field goals in the first half and once that happened, you knew the Ravens were in trouble. Jackson had a receiver open in the endzone on 3rd and goal down 10-3, and he missed him because he was pressured. The next play, he throws the pick six and the game is over. He wasn't good all night and then he got knocked out of the game after the interception with a concussion. It wasn't a night for all the supporters of Lamar Jackson. 

4) The Bills were the better team and they deserved to advance. A lot of people picked the Ravens to win and many people thought the Ravens were about to get on a run, but that was not the case. The Bills are a better team and now Buffalo heads to their first AFC Championship Game since 1993. It has been a long journey for the Bills and their fans, but they have earned this trip, and I'm happy for them.

AFC Divisional Playoff Game

(1) Kansas City Chiefs-22 (6) Cleveland Browns-17

1) This game was going to be a blowout until the Pat Mahomes concussion. Mahomes' concussion changed the game entirely. KC scored a TD on their first two possessions and they were up 19-3 at halftime. This game was going to be a blowout for KC if Mahomes didn't go down.

2) KC was up 16-3 late in the second quarter when Cleveland WR Rasard Higgins fumbled the ball out of the endzone diving for the pile on in front of the endzone. The play resulted in a touchback and the Chiefs went down the field and got a field goal right before the half. If the Browns score and cut it 16-10, it might be a different game, but that play really was a game-changer for the Browns.

3) Another key sequence was when after Baker Mayfield threw an interception on the first drive of the third quarter, but the Chiefs missed the field goal. Instead of making the lead 26-3 or 22-3, the Browns were still down 19-3. Cleveland drove down the field and made it 19-10. 

4) Pat Mahomes got hit running an option play around the right end and fell on his head late in the third quarter. He got up and couldn't stand on his own and was helped off the field. He went into the locker room and was ruled out for the rest of the game. The Chiefs did get a field goal on that drive to make it 22-10 but the whole complexion of the game changed once Mahomes was out and Chad Henne was in at QB.

5) Cleveland had their chance to win the game. They really did. Kareem Hunt scored a TD with 11:07 left in the game to cut the lead to 22-17. KC had to go with Chad Henne the rest of the game and after a decent drive, Henne got intercepted in the end zone on an ill-advised deep throw. The Browns took over at their own 20 with 8 minutes left in the game. They had to convert a 4th and 1 from their own 28, but they burned their second timeout after they got the first down. With 5:17 left and at their 30, they ran for a 1 yard loss, Mayfield threw incompete on second down, and he checked it down to Hunt on 3rd and 11 and Hunt only got 2 yards, and the Browns had to punt. This was going to be Baker Mayfield's moment, and it didn't happen. I really thought the Browns were going to at least drive down the field and make it interesting, but it just didn't happen.

6) The Chiefs got the ball at their own 28 with 4:09 left, and they ended the game with their offense. Chad Henne somehow scrambled for 13 yards on a 3rd and 14 with 2:00 minutes left in the game. Facing a 4th and inches at their own 48, Andy Reid decided to go for it, and Henne hit Tyreek Hill on a quick out for the first down and the game was over. Give Reid credit for going for it, but I guarantee that having that Super Bowl win in his back pocket was a factor in going for it in that spot.

7) The Browns will be left to think about what could have been. They had a chance to steal a playoff win in KC after Mahomes went down with the concussion but they couldn't pull it off. It was a very good season for the Browns, and they won their first playoff game since 1994, but this will hurt all offseason because they had their shot.

8) The Chiefs head to their third AFC Championship Game, and they will be hosting the game for the third time in a row. It is amazing. This team didn't win a playoff game from 1993-2005, but they have won 5 playoff games in the last three seasons. We will find out if Mahomes will be able to play this week, but I suspect he will be cleared in time for Sunday. 

NFC Divisional Playoff Game

(5) Tampa Bay Buccaneers-30 (2) New Orleans Saints-20

1) The Buccaneers forced four turnovers and that is the story of this game. Drew Brees threw three interceptions. The first one was early in the second quarter and it set up a TD pass from Tom Brady to Mike Evans to give the Bucs a 10-6 lead. With just over 4 minutes in the 3rd quarter, the Saints were up 20-13 when Jared Cook was stripped by Antoine Winfield Jr and Devin White recovered it and returned it to the NO 40. Brady hit Leonard Fournette on a 6 yard TD pass to tie the game at 20. After a field goal by the Bucs on their next drive to make it 23-20, Brees got picked off again and this time it was the dagger. Devin White picked off Brees and returned it to the NO 20 yard line. Brady hit Rob Gronkowski for 14 yards and then snuck it in for a TD to make it 30-20 and the game was essentially over. Brees threw another interception on the next drive and that was it.

2) I didn't know how to judge this game all week. I ended up going with the Saints because I put too much faith in Brees and Sean Payton, and I got burned. The Buccaneers lost both games to the Saints in the regular season and they got the best of them on Sunday. 

3) The Bucs went all in when they signed Brady in the offseason and added veterans like Gronk and Antonio Brown. They are going for it this year and so far it has paid off. Brady wasn't great on Sunday, but he was good enough, and he certainly was better than Brees. Give the Bucs credit. They signed Brady to give the franchise a boost for the first time since Jon Gruden won them a Super Bowl. It certainly has put life in this franchise and now they are reaping of the benefits.

4) The Saints come up short once again, and it has to just kill their fans and the team. This is the fourth straight disappointing finish in the playoffs for them. They lost the miracle game to the Vikings in 2017, they lost the NFC Championship Game in overtime to the Rams in 2018, they lost in OT to the Vikings in 2019, and now this year, the Bucs come into the Superdome and knock them off in the Divisional round. Each year, they were one of the teams that could have actually won the Super Bowl, but it just didn't happen. They lost at home three years in a row as well, and now they face the retirement of Drew Brees and a roster that has major cap issues. It is time to rebuild in New Orleans. They took their shot at another Super Bowl, got close, but just couldn't seal the deal. That will be very tough for Saints fans to deal with as the years go on.

5) It is a shame that Drew Brees' final pass as a pro was an interception in a playoff loss. In all likelihood, Brees will announce his retirement shortly. It was a great career and Brees ranks in the top 15 of QBs all time in my book. He did win one Super Bowl, but it feels like he should have won more or played in more. I always loved watching Brees from when he was a star at Purdue and also rooted for him. It seemed like he wasn't the same this year and then it really was not the same after he fractured his ribs and had a punctured lung. It was a great career but a tough way to go out for Brees.

6) The Buccaneers are headed to their first NFC Championship Game since 2002. Tom Brady is headed to his 14th Championship Sunday appearance. He was the story of the offseason and now he has the Bucs on the brink of the Super Bowl at 43 years old.  

Divisional Round Picks

This weekend, the number one seeds get into the playoff action. Kansas City and Green Bay host playoff games on Saturday and Sunday as we get to the final eight in the NFL. If you look at the Divisional Round, the one thing that stands out is the fact the QBs take center stage this weekend. You have the older, all-time greats in Tom Brady, Drew Brees, and Aaron Rodgers. You have the best QB in the league right now in Pat Mahomes, a blossoming superstar in Josh Allen, a former #1 overall pick in Baker Mayfield, last year's MVP, and............Jared Goff. This should be a fun weekend as always and the matchups are certainly good enough to produce some classics. Here are my picks for Divisional Weekend.....

Last Week's Record (3-3)

Playoff Record (3-3)

Overall 2020 Record (126-123-12)

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)

NFC Divisional Playoff Game

Los Angeles Rams at Green Bay Packers

A Case for the Rams: Their defense is playing really well. They dominated the Seahawks and Russell Wilson last week, and come playoff time a great defense can go a long way-especially in a single elimination format. They have a solid running game to go with that defense as well. You have to favor Sean McVay in the coaching matchup over Matt LaFleur. You know McVay is going to design a very solid gameplan. You also have to like the fact that the Rams will use that idea that no one really believed in them last week, and now no one is going to believe in them this week going to Lambeau Field to take on the Packers. The Rams are the underdog, and I think they will relish that role, and no fans in the stands will help them. I would expect them to play fast and loose and give the Packers a very tough game on Saturday afternoon-no matter who starts at QB for them.

A Case for the Packers:  They are the number one seed for a reason. They have Aaron Rodgers playing at at high level. They got to the NFC Championship Game last year and it has burned them since that loss to get to the Super Bowl. Who are you going to back in a big game: Rodgers or Jared Goff? If it not even a question. Throw in the fact that the game is in Lambeau and it will be cold and the elements will be in the favor of the Packers-even without any fans in attendance. I do worry about Jared Goff playing well in Lambeau in that weather environment with a broken thumb. 

Prediction: Los Angeles (+7) over GREEN BAY: I think the Rams will push the Packers to the limit, but in the end, Aaron Rodgers and the Packers will be too much and they will head to their second straight NFC Championship Game.

Final Score: Packers-26 Rams-20

AFC Divisional Playoff Game

Baltimore Ravens at Buffalo Bills

A Case for the Ravens: You always are looking for that "hot" team that is heading into the playoffs and the team that no one wants to play, and the Ravens might be that team this year. They were down 10-0 at Tennessee last week and nothing was going their way, but Lamar Jackson made some huge plays with his legs, and the Ravens defense stifled the Titans to win the game 20-13. They are riding some momentum and are currently on a six game winning streak. Jackson can just take over the game with his athletic ability, and he got his first playoff win to get that out of the way. Their defense is healthy and playing well, they are battle tested, and very well-coached for a game like this. They smoked the Bills in Buffalo last year, and the 6,700 fans in attendance won't be a factor. and No one will be surprised at all if they go into Buffalo and knock off the Bills.

A Case for the Bills: They might have gotten the monkey off their back by pulling out the 27-24 win over the Colts last week. Their defense didn't play that well, and they needed Josh Allen to bail them out once again. I wonder if getting that game out of the way will help them this week. They are at home again, so they don't have to travel. Allen got his first playoff win out of the way, so the pressure is off of him. We know he can just take a game over by himself and put the Bills on his back. Also, they are going to hear all week how the Ravens are rolling and how Buffalo didn't want to see the Ravens in their building. By gameday, the majority of people will be picking the Ravens. The Bills will use that as motivation for sure.

Prediction: BUFFALO (-3) over Baltimore: The Bills will hold off the Ravens and advance to their first AFC Championship Game since 1993

Final Score: Bills-24 Ravens-20

AFC Divisional Playoff Game

Cleveland Browns at Kansas City Chiefs

A Case for the Browns: They are playing with house money. They have nothing to lose after getting their first playoff win in 26 years by destroying their nemesis, the Pittsburgh Steelers, in the Wild Card round. Anything that happens from here is gravy. They are getting some players back from the Covid list including Joel Bitonio and Denzel Ward. They are also getting their coach, Kevin Stefanski, back from the Covid list. They will head to Arrowhead to take on the defending Super Bowl champs with nothing to lose, and they can play the game fast and loose.

A Case for the Chiefs: We know how good Andy Reid has his team prepared after a bye week. I thought the Chiefs got bored the last month of the season. They knew they were winning the division and going to get the #1 seed, and I think they just took their foot off the gas. I believe they will come out firing on all cylinders, and I would expect a monster effort by Pat Mahomes and that offense. Instead of drawing the Ravens, they ended up with the Browns, and I think they believe that is an easier matchup. The Chiefs are rested and ready to make a run at back-to-back Super Bowl titles. 

Prediction: KANSAS CITY (-9) over Cleveland: The Browns are a nice story, but they will be no match for the Chiefs, who will advance to their third straight AFC Championship Game.

Final Score: Chiefs-34 Browns-21

NFC Divisional Playoff Game

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at New Orleans Saints

A Case for the Buccaneers: They have Tom Brady, who is playing just lights out right now. Their offense is clicking with all their available weapons. They got swept by the Saints in the regular season, and the second game was a huge blowout in Tampa. The Bucs will use that game as motivation, and I would expect them to play a lot better than they did in the regular season. The homefield advantage will not be a factor in the Superdome without any fans in attendance, so that will help the Bucs. That building would be insane for a game like this in other years with fans. You can totally see the Bucs going into New Orleans and knocking off the Saints, and what a story that would be.

A Case for the Saints: In what will most likely be Drew Brees' final year, maybe this is the year they get back to the Super Bowl and get that second ring for Brees. They have endured three straight years of playoff disappointment, and they got the first playoff game out of the way with the easy win over the Bears last Sunday in the Wild Card Game. Perhaps the Saints just have the Bucs number. You have to favor Sean Payton over Bruce Arians in this spot. Also, maybe the Saints are due. It might end up being their year. 

Prediction: NEW ORLEANS (-3) over Tampa Bay: The Saints make it 3-0 against the Bucs and advance to their second NFC Championship in three years. 

Final Score: Saints-30 Buccaneers-26

Broncos Hire George Paton as New General Manager

 The Broncos named George Paton as their new General Manager on Wednesday. He agrees to a six year deal with the Broncos to become their GM. Paton comes over from his Assistant GM position at the Minnesota Vikings, and he is widely considered to be one of the most respected personnel men in the NFL. This move by John Elway and Joe Ellis signals a huge shift in the balance of power in the organization, and Paton will have the final say and be a real "GM" for the Broncos. Paton was a name that was constantly being viewed as a future GM, and the Broncos were able to land him for their GM spot. There has been an overwhelming positive response to hire of Paton, and many people around the NFL are applauding this move on the part of the Broncos. I was happy that the Broncos got Paton because his name has been out there for a few years as a great choice for a GM for any team, and I'm super excited the Broncos got him to come to Denver. The other aspect I like about the move is that Paton is from outside the organization. He comes from another franchise and the Vikings are consistently a good team and have drafted well. They are a playoff team every other year and when they don't make the playoffs, they are right on the cusp of making it, so he comes from a good franchise and solid organization. It is good that they got a guy like Paton to come in and give the franchise a new set of eyes and fresh ideas. This is a great move for the Broncos and it definitely gives some hope for the future of this team. I love the quote from Paton in his press release in which he called the Broncos "a sleeping giant." That shows that he recognizes that there is plenty of young talent on this team and it could become a good team a lot quicker than many people expect. Hopefully, Paton will help get us there. Go Broncos!

Wild Card Weekend Reaction

 Here are my thoughts and reactions to the games from Wild Card Weekend.....

AFC Wild Card Game

Buffalo-27 Indianapolis-24

1) The Colts played as well as you can on the road as an underdog, and they still didn't win the game. They really had their chances and I think that Frank Reich should have kicked the field goal when they were up 10-7 and had a 4th and goal from the 4 yard line. The pass was incomplete and the Colts came away with no points. They also missed a 33 yard field goal in the 3rd quarter, and Reich went for two when they down 24-16 in the 4th quarter. They had 27 first downs, over 450 yards in total offense, no turnovers, and they still lost the game. Opportunity lost.

2) Give Josh Allen credit: He played like a MVP. He made some great throws and ran the ball effectively. He single-handedly took the game from down 10-7 to up 24-10 in a blink of an eye. He was the reason why the Bills won the game.

3) The officiating was pretty bad all throughout the game. It was glaring how bad these refs were all game long. 

4) If you are the Bills, you are feeling very fortunate to get out of this game with a win. The Colts were thisclose from pulling the upset. In any event, the Bills get their first playoff win since 1995 and they get the chance to host another playoff game next week in the Divisional Round against the Ravens. I would still be wary of the Bills as they move on.

NFC Wild Card Game

Los Angeles Rams-30 Seattle-20

1) The Rams defense dominated the Seahawks all game long. They got after Russell Wilson all day, and they got a pick six to extend their lead to 13-3 in the 2nd quarter. Give credit to the Rams and their defense because they were the factor in this game.

2) Wilson had his worst playoff game of his career and it cost the Seahawks, who go out as a one and done playoff team. Pete Carroll also didn't have the best day as a head coach in a playoff game. Seattle made mental mistakes, look unprepared, and it was a bad effort all around. A humbling day for the Seahawks and their franchise.

3) No fans in the stands really made a difference in this game in my opinion. It just wasn't the same without the 12th Man in the stands. I thought it would be a factor going in and it was in my opinion.

4) John Wolford got the start for the Rams and Jared Goff was active but didn't start because of his thumb. Wolford went out with a concussion in the 1st quarter, so Goff entered the game. He wasn't great but he didn't kill the Rams either. 

5) Down 23-13 in the 4th quarter, Seattle fumbled a punt return and Goff threw a TD to Robert Woods and that put LA up 30-13 and that was the game. The Rams move on to Green Bay to take on the Packers next week in the Divisional Round.

NFC Wild Card Game

Tampa Bay-31 Washington-23

1) The Bucs jumped out to a 9-0 and 15-7 lead early in the game and it looked like it was going to be a blowout. Give credit to Washington for keeping the game close enough that it came down to the end. 

2) It felt like the Bucs were just trying to get through this game and move on. Once they got a lead, it felt like they were just trying to get out of there as soon as possible. Tom Brady played really well and he leads Tampa Bay to their first playoff win since 2002.

3) Give credit to Taylor Heinicke. He started for the injured Alex Smith and he played really well. He was shifty in the pocket, gutty, and made some big throws. It was an inspiring performance and it kept Washington in the game. 

4) The Bucs defense stepped it up on the final drive of the game and stopped Washington near midfield to secure the 31-23 win. The Bucs move on to the Divisional Round to take on the Saints next Sunday night in a classic matchup. 

AFC Wild Card Game

Baltimore-20 Tennessee-13

1) The Titans got off to a 10-0 start with a TD pass from Ryan Tannehill to A.J. Brown, and Lamar Jackson had an early interception and it looked like things could go really bad for the Ravens. From that 10-0 point, Baltimore outscored the Titans 20-3 to win the game.

2) Jackson made the play of the game when he took off a 3rd and 8 and score a 48 yard TD run to tie the score at 10 in the 2nd quarter. It felt like the Ravens just took the game over and never looked back.

3) The Titans couldn't get Derrick Henry going and Mike Vrabel made a questionable call to punt on a 4th and 1 early in the 4th quarter. Tannehill really couldn't get the play action passing game going and the Ravens just shut them down. He got picked off with just under 2 minutes to go and Jackson ran for a first time to ice the game. For a team that scored a lot of points in the regular season, it has to be disappointing for the Titans to only score 13 and fall short.

4) These two teams are now embroiled in a nice little rivalry. The Ravens got revenge on the Titans for knocking them out last year, and they also stirred some shit up when they all posed on the Titans logo at midfield after the late interception by Marcus Peters. It will be interesting to see this rivalry going forward.

NFC Wild Card Game

New Orleans-21 Chicago-9

1) This was the worst game of the weekend in my opinion. The Saints were up 7-3 at halftime and 14-3 going into the 4th quarter, but the game never seemed in doubt.

2) The Bears offense and Mitch Trubisky were bad all game long. Their only chance was when they ran a trick play early in the game and Bears WR Javon Wims dropped it in the endzone. That was it. The Bears were done from there.

3) New Orleans might not have been very impressive, but they advance to the Divisional Round and host the Bucs and Tom Brady. It is a great matchup in the late window on Sunday evening. That is definitely a marquee matchup.

AFC Wild Card Game

Cleveland-48 Pittsburgh-37

1) This was the stunner of the weekend. The Browns, with their head coach out with Covid, and not having a practice until Friday to get ready for this game, go into Pittsburgh and absolutely crush their longtime nemesis 48-37 and win a playoff game for the first time since 1994. This was just an incredible story.

2) What a way for this game to start. The Steelers snap the ball over Ben Roethlisberger's head and it rolls into the endzone, where the Browns recovered and took a 7-0 lead on the first play. It really set the tone of the game, much like Seattle-Denver in Super Bowl 48, and the Steelers never recovered. Big Ben threw an interception on the next drive and the Browns converted on a 40 yard TD pass from Baker Mayfield to Jarvis Landry and it was 14-0 Browns five minutes into the game. After a Pittsburgh punt, Kareem Hunt scored on a 11 yard TD run to make it 21-0. Another Big Ben pick on the next drive set up another Hunt TD and it was 28-0 and the rout was officially on. The Browns taking a 28-0 lead in the first quarter was something that no one saw coming. It was like they were taking all their frustration out in one quarter after all these years of pain.

3) This was just a nightmare game for the Steelers. Big Ben threw four touchdown passes but he ends up throwing four picks and didn't play well, the team came out flat, got punched in the mouth by the Browns, and there was no fans to even try to pick them up and give them any sort of momentum. I thought they would play really well in this game-especially after the way their backups almost beat the Browns starters in Week 17. I was dead wrong. This was a low moment for the Steelers. To get beat at home by a team that they have dominated for so long is just a kick in the gut for the Steelers and their fans. Mike Tomlin deserves some blame as well. Pittsburgh actually closed the gap to 35-23 at one point early in the 4th quarter and they punted on a 4th and 1 from their own 46. It was a bad decision and of course the Browns go 6 plays and 80 yards and get a touchdown to make it 42-23 and put the nail in the coffin.

4) This game and the story of this game is about the Browns and their fans. To slay the dragon in Pittsburgh, they hadn't won in Pittsburgh since 2003, and secure their first playoff win since 1994 is a tremendous story. They drafted Baker Mayfield #1 overall in 2018 and a lot of people thought they should have drafted Sam Darnold #1. Mayfield has paid dividends for them and was a big part in erasing some terrible history for this franchise on Sunday night. The Browns will now become a bigger story as they head into the Divisional Round and take on the Chiefs in Arrowhead Stadium on Sunday. Whatever happens in that game won't matter because the Browns and their fans will always have this playoff win over Pittsburgh to look back on. 

Wild Card Weekend Picks

Not since 1990, has the NFL postseason had a format change. In a move that I personally love and wanted for years, this past offseason the NFL approved two extra playoff teams in each conference. Seven teams now qualify in the AFC and NFC, so that gives us six games on Wild Card Weekend and a tripleheader on both Saturday and Sunday. I always enjoyed Wild Card Weekend, but now it is even better. It will be a lot of fun to have three games each day this weekend, and hopefully we get good games all weekend long. It will also be interesting to see how the seven seeds (Chicago and Indianapolis) play this weekend. Will they be competitive or will they show that they might not belong?  It will be fun either way, and I'm looking forward to seeing how it all plays out. Here are my picks for Wild Card Weekend....

Week 17 Record: 8-8

Overall 2020 Season Record: (123-120-12)

AFC Wild Card Game

(7) Indianapolis at (2) Buffalo

A Case for the Colts: The Colts are 11-5 and finished as the 7 seed in the AFC. They are certainly no slouch. Philip Rivers has been in playoff games before and he could get hot, and you have to like their running game with rookie Jonathan Taylor. Also, I like their defense and that could keep them in the game. Plus, you have to love the story of Frank Reich coming back to Buffalo as head coach of the Colts and going against the Bills in their first home playoff game since 1995. With only 6,700 fans in attendance the Colts, won't have to worry about the crowd noise being a factor. Everyone will be picking the Bills to win easily, so the Colts definitely have the look of the "Nobody Believes in Us" team, and they can use that as motivation all week long. 

A Case for the Bills: The Bills finished 13-3 and on a tear to end the season. No one in the AFC-not even the Chiefs-were playing better than Buffalo at the end of the year. They might be the most complete team. They are the best Bills team since the 1991 Bills that featured Jim Kelly and that group. Josh Allen is a MVP candidate and he could simply take this game over. They are at home and perhaps the weather will play a role in this game as well. They are about as hot as you can be for a team heading into the postseason. They are well-coached with Sean McDermott and they are due for a playoff win. Their last playoff win was 1995. There is a very good chance they end that streak this weekend.

Prediction: BUFFALO (-6) over Indianapolis: The Bills will win their first playoff game since 1995 in front of 6,700 fans in Orchard Park, and they will host the Steelers in the Divisional Round next weekend. 

Final Score: Bills-27 Colts-20

NFC Wild Card Game

(6) Los Angeles Rams at (3) Seattle

A Case for the Rams: They might get Jared Goff back for this game from his thumb injury. Even if he is out again, you have to like the way that Sean McVay will manage the game with John Wolford at QB, just like he did in the season finale win over the Cardinals. McVay is a great, young coach and he will have his team ready to go. The Rams are division rivals with the Seahawks, so there is that familiarity between the two teams. The Rams also have a very good defense, and that will be able to keep them in the game-even if the offense is struggling.  The 12th Man in Seattle will not be a factor because there will be no fans in attendance so that should help the Rams offense. Plus, I think the Rams will have a lot of extra motivation this week because they are the underdog, nobody is going to pick them with Goff probably not playing, and they will use that all week to get themselves ready. Put it this way: They might not win, but I don't think they will get blown out.

A Case for the Seahawks: Russell Wilson had one of his best seasons of his career, and he can carry this team on his back and to a victory all by himself. The Seahawks have not been back to the Super Bowl since the 2014 season. They have seen the Rams and 49ers get there since their last appearance. They have been close numerous times the past six years, and maybe they are due to get back there. It feels like Wilson and head coach Pete Carroll have another Super Bowl run left in them together. This could be the year.

Prediction: Rams (+4) over SEATTLE: This will be a close game and I think the Rams will cover but the Seahawks will hold them off late. Even if Jared Goff doesn't play because of his thumb injury, I still think the Rams will keep it close, but Seattle moves onto the Divisional Round and head to New Orleans next week. 

Final Score: Seahawks-20 Rams-17

NFC Wild Card Game

(5) Tampa Bay at (4) Washington

A Case for the Buccaneers: This team is rolling into the playoffs at 11-5. Tom Brady had one of his best years ever, and it is starting to click with his weapons on offense and even guys like Rob Gronkowski and Antonio Brown are getting into the act. It is hard to see them slowing down on Saturday night in Washington with no fans in the stands. Their defense has been good all season, and I can see them getting after Alex Smith and causing chaos for Washington's offense. I just think they are too good and aren't going to go into Washington and be upset by a 7-9 division winner.

A Case for the Washington Football Team: At 7-9 they won the NFC East and the last two division winners to win one with a losing record (Seattle-2010 and Carolina-2014) both ended up winning their first playoff game. They can use that as motivation. Obviously, no one is picking them to win the game, and they will use that as motivation. The Ron Rivera and Alex Smith stories are nice little backdrops for the game as well.

Prediction: Tampa Bay (-7) over WASHINGTON: There is no shot Tom Brady and the Bucs are going to lose at Washington on Saturday night. It might be close for a little bit, but the Bucs will get their first playoff win since 2002 and head to Green Bay to take on the Packers next Sunday in the Divisional Round. 

Final Score: Buccaneers-31 Redskins-13

AFC Wild Card Game

(5) Baltimore at (4) Tennessee

A Case for the Ravens: They were 6-5 and on the outside of the playoff picture, but they won five in a row and at 11-5, they are clicking heading into the playoffs. All of the Covid issues are behind them-for now- and they are as healthy as they have been in a long time. They have plenty of motivation this week. Last year, the Titans shocked them in the Divisional Round and ended a 14-2 season in their first playoff game. They get their chance at revenge this week, and they will have a chance to return the favor this week. Also, they lost to Tennessee in overtime during the regular season, and there was some bad blood in that game because the Titans were dancing on the Ravens logo at midfield. I think the Ravens will be really fired up for this game and you could see them hitting on all cylinders in this game-especially with the Titans defense being suspect.

A Case for the Titans: The Titans won the AFC South once again at 12-4, and they can probably use the motivation that they might actually own the Ravens. They beat them last year in the playoffs, they beat them in overtime during the regular season, and now they host them on Sunday. Perhaps the Titans just have the Ravens number. We know the Titans want to play a certain way, and you could see how they will try to do it. Although the Ravens have won five in a row to make the playoffs, they really haven't beat anyone good. The Titans just might be more battled tested. 

Prediction: TENNESSEE (+4) over Baltimore: The Titans get revenge and knock the Ravens out of the playoffs for the second year in a row and head to Arrowhead to take on the Chiefs next weekend in the Divisional Round. 

Final Score: Titans-27 Ravens-24

NFC Wild Card Game

(7) Chicago at (2) New Orleans

A Case for the Bears: Crazy things can happen in the playoffs, so you never know. The Bears did back in at 8-8 after losing to Green Bay, but they did finish the season winning three out of their last four games. The Bears are playing with out "house money" this weekend. Literally, no one gives them a chance to win the game. They can play fast and loose and use that as motivation in this game. This was a close game in Chicago earlier in the year. Drew Brees is back but is still recovering from his fractured ribs and punctured lung. Alvin Kamara is on the Covid list and if he plays on Sunday, he still missed the whole week of practice and preparation. Plus, all the pressure is on the Saints. This might be their last shot at a Super Bowl with Drew Brees and they have lost heartbreakers the last three years in the playoffs. The Saints have to win this game and the Bears might be able to catch them playing tight.

A Case for the Saints: They are one of the best teams in the league and a legitimate Super Bowl contender. They know that this is their last shot with Drew Brees, and although it might make them play tight, they also might come out guns blazing and just blow the doors off the Bears. I could see Sean Payton dialing up a great gameplan and the Saints come out and just steamroll the Bears. You really can't take Mitch Trubisky on the road (Eventhough there will be no fans) against Drew Brees. I can't see New Orleans blowing this opportunity on Wild Card weekend. 

Prediction: NEW ORLEANS (-8) over Chicago: The Bears might keep it close for awhile, but the Saints will pull away to advance to the Divisional Round and host the Seahawks next week.

Final Score: Saints-30 Bears-16

AFC Wild Card Game

(6) Cleveland at (3) Pittsburgh

A Case for the Browns: It has been 18 years since the Browns made the playoffs, and the last time they did make the playoffs they lost to the Steelers in a classic game in 2002. They are finally back. You could see the Browns winning this game by getting an early lead, leaning on that running game, and then letting Baker Mayfield use that play-action game to keep the lead. You can definitely see the Browns take that path to win this game. When division rivals meet in the playoffs, there is no mystery to each other. They know the other opponent. That could play into the Browns favor. I think a lot of people are going to count the Browns out as well. They barely beat the Steelers to get into the playoffs last week, and Pittsburgh wasn't even playing any of their main starters. The Browns can use that as motivation as well.

A Case for the Steelers: They started off 11-0, then faltered, but won the game they needed to win in Week 16 against the Colts to get back on track. Throw last week's loss to the Browns out of the window. They didn't play their main guys. Now, they come into this game a little rested and with a chip on their shoulder. Everyone is picking the Chiefs or the Bills to win the AFC, and no one is giving the Steelers a shot. They will use that as motivation. They will also use the motivation of basically letting the Browns get into the playoffs only to eliminate them this week. You have to like the playoff experience of Big Ben and Mike Tomlin as well. You could see the Steelers coming out with a huge effort and play one of their best games on Sunday night. Finally, the Browns are dealing with Covid issues once again this week. Their head coach, Kevin Stefanski, will not be able to coach in the game because he tested positive this week. They are also missing numerous other players, so that is something that simply can't help their chances of beating the Steelers. 

Prediction: PITTSBURGH (-4) over CLEVELAND: The Steelers will advance to take on Buffalo next week in the Divisional Round. The Browns make their first playoff appearance since 2002, but it will be short-lived and they will be one and done. 

Final Score: Steelers-27 Browns-20

John Elway Elevated to President of Football Operations, Steps Away from GM Role

 So much for continuity in the offseason for the Broncos. On Monday in a surprise move, John Elway announced that he is stepping away from the General Manager role with the Broncos. He will be elevated to President of Football Operations, but will lead the new search to find a new GM, who will have final say on the roster, draft, and free agency. This move was a surprise and it wasn't mentioned the past few days by anyone connected to the Broncos and Elway. It is not a total surprise because Elway's contract was set to expire after next season, and it was hard to believe that Elway was going to sign on for another extension at this point of his life and career-especially with the way the Broncos have floundered the past four years. There is a lot to digest here, so I'll go through my thoughts on this in a bulleted format.

-I think this is the best move for Elway at this point, and I always knew that this was the way that Elway would leave the GM spot. He is going to be still involved with the team as a President of Football Operations, which was his original title when he joined the front office in 2011, but he won't be making the final decisions on the roster, personnel, draft, and free agency. Elway won't be involved in the day to day operations, and it will be a way for him to stay in the organization and find a new voice to lead the football side of the front office. Joe Ellis was never going to fire John Elway. Heck, I don't even know if Pat Bowlen would have fired John Elway if he was still alive. This was always going to be the way for Elway to step away from the GM role.

-I think it is right time for Elway to step back from this role. The team is in the midst of its' worst stretch in franchise history going back to the early 70s. They have missed the playoffs five straight seasons since winning Super Bowl 50, and they are a franchise that is at a lowpoint in terms of winning. It was time to get a new voice and a new mindset in that spot. 

-The problems that plagued Elway the last five years were that he had trouble finding the right head coach and had trouble finding that franchise level QB. It is hard to find those two components for a NFL team, and if you don't have that, then it will be hard to win games. I think Elway found that out the hard way the last few years. He whiffed on the hire of Vance Joseph as head coach in 2017, and he whiffed on the drafting QB Paxton Lynch in the 1st round of the 2016 draft. He also whiffed on signing free agent QBs like Case Keenum and Joe Flacco. That is the main reason why the Broncos have had four straight losing seasons. I also think that at times Elway might have meddled too much with some of the assistant coaching decisions, and that ultimately might have hurt the franchise, but in the end with a guy like John Elway running the show, it is hard to not be the face of the organization instead of the head coach being that guy.

-Elway will have a say in the GM search and there are some names that have already filtered out as front runners. Adam Peters from San Francisco and Champ Kelly from Chicago both have ties to the Broncos organization and could make a lot of sense. I expect a few other names to surface, but I think Elway and Vic Fangio will want to find a guy that they are familiar with and have some connection with. I don't expect any "Wild Card" or "Out of the Box" candidates.

-As far as Elway's legacy as GM goes in Denver, you can't argue with his accomplishments his first five years. The Broncos won five straight AFC West titles, he won a division and a playoff game with Tim Tebow, signed Peyton Manning, went to 2 Super Bowls, and won the franchise's third Lomabrdi Trophy in 2015. Even in 2016, the Broncos went 9-7 with Trevor Siemian at QB only to miss the playoffs by one game. People forget how many experts and analysts ripped the Broncos for hiring Elway back in 2011. The Broncos were considered a joke for doing it, but Elway made a lot of key decisions. He got John Fox to come in and coach in 2011, and he recruited Peyton Manning to come to Denver in 2012. He made a lot of great free agent signings (DeMarcus Ware, Aqib Talib, Emmanuel Sanders) to help the Broncos compete for a Super Bowl with Manning there. He always uncovered a few undrafted free agents (Chris Harris and Philip Lindsay) and his first few drafts and last few drafts were very good. The Broncos roster right now has plenty of young talent and it is better than their 5-11 record. I know the last four years were bad, but any GM would love to have Elway's resume after 10 years on the job.

-I will never forget the feeling of seeing John Elway standing on the podium after Super Bowl 50 and accepting the Lombardi Trophy and saying "This one's for Pat!" 17 years after Pat Bowlen stood on the podium and said "This one's for John!" after the Broncos won Super Bowl XXXII. To see John Elway, the greatest Denver Bronco of all time, come back and guide the team to another Super Bowl, this time as a GM, is one of the coolest experiences that I could imagine. John Elway was my hero growing up. To see him come back and deliver another championship to the Broncos was just simply amazing.  

Broncos Finish 2020 Season with Loss to Raiders, End Up 5-11

 The Broncos played their last game of the 2020 season at home on Sunday against the 7-8 Raiders. It was a meaningless game as Denver came into it 5-10 and another losing season already in the books. The Raiders scored a late touchdown on a 4th and goal and then got the two point conversion to win the game 32-31. The loss gave Denver a final record of 5-11 and a last place finish in the AFC West. It was actually an entertaining game and wild finish, but in the larger scope this game and result meant nothing. Here are my thoughts and observations about the game....

1) Denver actually outplayed the Raiders for most of the game. They created four turnovers, controlled time of possession, and scored 31 points, yet they still lost. That just about sums up the 2020 season for the Broncos.

2) The end of the game was a mess for Vic Fangio and his clock management. We saw it cost the Broncos in Week 1 against the Titans and we saw it cost them again in Week 17. He used the Broncos final two timeouts late in the game. One was on the 4th and goal play that the Raiders eventually scored to make it 31-30. The other was before the two-point conversion but the Raiders were scrambling around and there was confusion in their huddle and on the sideline and they might have had a delay of game. The Broncos kind of bailed them out and of course the Raiders get the two-pointer and take the lead with under 30 seconds left. Denver had no timeouts left and somehow was able to setup a 63 yard field goal by Brandon McManus that was blocked. Fangio did a really bad job there. You have to leave at least 1 timeout left for your team in case you are down by 1 and need a field goal. Fangio's clock management is very suspect at this point in his coaching career. He can't coach the game just like a defensive coordinator. He has to coach it like a head coach. If the Broncos are playing meaningful and big games next year, he has to clean this part of his game management up or it will cost them big time. 

3) Of course, Melvin Gordon runs out of bounds as Denver is trying to salt the game away. Gordon turned out to be a nice addition to the offense-especially at the end of year-but he fumbles too much and just makes too many bone-headed plays.

4) One positive of the game was Drew Lock. He played really well. He completed 25-41 passes for 339 yards, 2 TDs and 0 INT. He didn't turn the ball over for the first time since Week 1. He even hit Jerry Jeudy for a 92 yard TD in the 4th quarter to give Denver a 31-24 lead. Lock definitely looked comfortable back there and it was a nice way for him to go into the offseason. It was something to build on.

5) Another positive is that the Broncos loss gave them the 9th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. They also locked in a last place finish and it set up their 4th place placement games for next year which will be hosting the Jets and playing at Jacksonville. 

6) It was a disappointing end to the 2020 season, but aspects of this season have to be taken into account.  This was just not a normal year for the Broncos. There were no OTAs, minicamps, and preseason games. They endured huge and countless injuries to key players, they were hit by Covid in a lot of ways and worse than other teams, and it was a really young team, so it just wasn't in the cards for this group. I actually think they are better than the 5-11 record says they are. People in the national media will shit on this Broncos team, but for anyone who follows this team, you know that there is a lot of young talent on this roster. It won't be as bad of a team as people will peg them going into next year. This year is done and now it is time to look ahead to next year. It won't be easy, but hopefully there will be better days ahead for the Broncos in 2021.

Broncos-Raiders, Week 17 Picks, and NFL Playoff Schedule Predictions

 The Broncos finish out a disappointing 2020 season at home against the Las Vegas Raiders. The Broncos are 5-10 and the Raiders are 7-8. This game is meaningless but it will have some implications for draft position and next year's placement games on the Broncos schedule. The Chargers are playing the Chiefs but it looks like KC is going to rest some starters including Pat Mahomes with the #1 seed already wrapped up. In that case, then I think the Chargers will win and finish 7-9. If the Broncos win and finish 6-10, then they will finish in last place in the AFC West. They will then play at Jacksonville and host the Jets in their placement games. (They also will draw the Lions in their 17th game NFC crossover if the league goes to 17 games next year). The Broncos are also looking at a draft pick in the 10-13 range depending on a few factors. I would like to see them win, Drew Lock play really well, and have the Chargers win in KC so the Broncos secure last place in the AFC West. I'll spend plenty of time reflecting on this season, Drew Lock, and the Broncos franchise overall once the season is over. For now, I'll do the picks for Week 17 and then give my Playoff Schedule Predictions.....

Las Vegas (-2) over DENVER

Final Score: Raiders-30 Broncos-20

Last Week's Record: (5-10-1)

Overall Record (115-112-12)

(HOME TEAM IN CAPS) 

TAMPA BAY (-6) over Atlanta: The Bucs secure the #5 seed in the NFC.

Minnesota (-7) over DETROIT: The Vikings will finish 7-9 and the Lions will finish 5-11

Dallas (-2) over GIANTS: The Cowboys will finish 7-9 and win the NFC East due to Washington losing the Sunday night game at Philly.

CLEVELAND (-8) over Pittsburgh: The Browns will clinch a playoff spot with a win over the Steelers, who are resting players.

Miami (+2) over BUFFALO: I can't see Buffalo going all out and playing their starters the whole game. The Bills will be the #2 seed and Miami will win and get into the playoffs.

NEW ENGLAND (-3) over Jets: The Pats will finish 7-9 and the Jets will finish 2-14

Baltimore (-10) over CINCINNATI: The Ravens will clinch a playoff spot with a win over the Bengals.

Tennessee (-7) over HOUSTON: The Titans will clinch the AFC South with a win over the Texans.

Green Bay (-5) over CHICAGO: The Packers will secure the #1 seed in the NFC with a win over the Bears. The Bears will still get in as the #7 seed after the Rams beat the Cardinals.

SAN FRANCISCO (+7) over Seattle: Seattle wins the NFC West and the #3 seed.

Chargers (-3) over KANSAS CITY: The Chiefs are resting starters after securing the #1 seed in the AFC.

RAMS (-1) over Arizona: I know the Jared Goff is out and John Wolford is starting for the Rams but I still think they will find a way to beat the Cardinals and clinch a playoff spot.

INDIANAPOLIS (-12) over Jacksonville: The Jags have secured the #1 pick in the draft next year. The Colts will finish at 11-5 but miss out on the playoffs.

CAROLINA (+7) over New Orleans: The Saints will get the #2 seed in the NFC.

PHILADELPHIA (+2) over WASHINGTON: The Eagles knock off Washington on the Sunday Night Football and that gives the Cowboys the NFC East and the #4 seed in the NFC. 

Based on my predictions for Week 17, here are my NFL Playoff Schedule Predictions (This year features a tripleheader on Saturday and Sunday for Wild Card Weekend with the addition of an extra Wild Card team in each conference. CBS and NBC each have two games and ESPN and FOX have one)

WILD CARD WEEKEND:

Saturday 1/9

Miami at Tennessee-1:00pm (ESPN)

Cleveland at Buffalo-4:30pm (CBS)

Rams at Seattle-8:30pm (NBC)

Sunday 1/10

Chicago at New Orleans-1:00pm (FOX)

Baltimore at Pittsburgh-4:30pm (CBS)

Tampa Bay at Dallas-8:30pm (NBC)