Seattle-10 Minnesota-9
NFC Wild Card Game
1) The cold weather really affected this game. It was the third coldest game in NFL Playoff history, and you can tell that it really affected both teams. It was a war of attrition for most of the game.
2) The game turned when Russell Wilson turned a fumble into a big completion to Tyler Lockett down to the Minnesota 4-yard line. Seattle was down 9-0 early in the 4th quarter, and this play by Wilson turned the game around. A few plays later, Wilson hit Doug Baldwin to make it 9-7.
3) Adrian Peterson's fumble two plays later gave Seattle the ball at the Minnesota 35. He was stripped and Kam Chancellor recovered in Minnesota territory. Seattle converted a field goal for a 10-9 lead with 8:04 left.
4) The teams each punted twice in the next 2 possessions, and Minnesota and Teddy Bridgewater put together a clutch drive aided by a pass interference by Kam Chancellor and then a misplay by Chancellor on a pass to Kyle Rudolph to give the Vikings the ball at the Seattle 18 with only 1:23 left. Three straight Peterson runs set up the Vikings for a chip shot 27 yard field goal and the win.
5) Blair Walsh, who was clutch for most of the game and hit three field goals earlier, somehow missed the kick and the Vikings lose a heartbreaker 10-9. My heart goes out to Walsh, the Vikings, and their fanbase. How many awful playoff games has Minnesota lost in the past 40 years? It was just an unbelievable ending to the game. You have to be sick to your stomach if you are a Vikings fan. Just an awful way to lose the game.
6) The Seahawks survive in a game that wasn't an all-time classic, but the combination of the weather, the outdoor game in Minnesota, and the early start, gave it a cool 1970s playoff vibe to it. All it needed was John Facenda narrating the highlights for NFL Films. Seattle somehow advances and now heads to Carolina to take on the Panthers next Sunday in the Divisional Round.
Green Bay-35 Washington-18
NFC Wild Card Game
1) You can't ask for a better start if you are a Redskins fan. A safety on a sack on Aaron Rodgers in the end zone, followed by a field goal, and then a few series later Kirk Cousins hits Jordan Reed on a 24-yard touchdown hookup to make it 11-0 after the missed extra point. It was still early in the second quarter, but it definitely had the feeling of a Redskins rout.
2) The Packers probably put together their most important drive of the year at that point. Rodgers drives them 80 yards and hits Randoll Cobb in the endzone for a 12-yard touchdown and a huge response to make it 11-7.
3) The next series Kirk Cousins fumbles after being sacked and the Packers recover, which leads to a field goal to make it 11-10. You could feel the momentum really turning at this point.
4) The Packers forced a punt, and they put together another touchdown drive of 60 yards with Rodgers hitting Davante Adams for a 10-yard TD, and all of a sudden Green Bay has taken a 17-11 lead heading into halftime. You had the feeling going into the half that the Redskins were in trouble.
5) The Redskins put together a really nice drive to start the half, and they took the lead on a Cousins 3 yard touchdown run on 3rd and Goal to give to the Skins an 18-17 lead. It was a great answer coming out of the half, and you thought this game might come down to whoever had the ball last.
6) The Packers didn't panic and once again they moved the ball and answered the Redskins score with another touchdown drive capped off by a James Starks 4 yard run to make it 24-18. The Packers converted a 4th and 1 on the drive with Eddie Lacy picking up 11 yards to keep the drive going.
7) The next two Redskins possessions ended in punts, and the Packers made them pay. A 76 yard drive by Green Bay led to a 2-yard TD run by Eddie Lacy to make it 32-18 with the two-point conversion. The Packers only faced one 3rd down on the drive, and that drive effectively put the game away for good.
8) Everyone was on the Redskins bandwagon all week long, and the only reason to like the Packers was the fact that they have Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers played really well, the Packers actually ran the ball well, and their offensive line protected Rodgers enough-especially from the 2nd quarter on. Rodgers is such a great player that he can win a game on his own, and he certainly played the part in this game. This was a game that we haven't seen from the Packers since October, and even their defense got into the act by completely smothering Kirk Cousins and the Redskins offense. It was a statement win by the Packers, and now they head to Arizona for a date with the Cardinals in the Divisional Playoffs next Saturday night.
Monday, January 11, 2016
Wild Card Weekend Review-AFC Games
Wild Card weekend is over and it sets up a very interesting Divisional Playoff weekend. One of the themes going into the weekend was the fact that the QBs for the home teams had 0 combined playoff starts, and the road teams featured the group of Russell Wilson, Ben Roethlisberger, Alex Smith, and Aaron Rodgers. Well, the proven QBs ended up coming out on top as all four road teams won on Wild Card weekend for the first time since the current playoff format was instituted in 1990. The weekend featured a blowout, a nail-biter, throwback played on negative weather, a statement game by a superstar QB, and a complete XFL-style game in the primetime spot on Saturday. Here are my thoughts on the games based on their order of appearance....
Kansas City-30 Houston-0
AFC Wild Card Game
1) The tone of this game was set when Knile Davis took the opening kickoff 106 yards back for a touchdown to give KC the early lead. It took the air out of the stadium, and from that point on, it felt like the Texans had no chance to win.
2) Besides the kickoff, the only other aspect of note in this game was the play of Brian Hoyer. Hoyer threw 3 interceptions in the first half and fumbled another time in KC territory. He was flat out awful and should have been benched before he threw his fourth pick of the game in the second half. He finished 15-34 for 136 yards and 4 interceptions and a fumble. You can't overcome bad QB play in the playoffs, and Hoyer put up one of the most horrific games of any QB in recent playoff history.
3) This game was 13-0 in the first half, and Houston was driving inside the 5, when Bill O'Brien called a play where J.J. Watt lined up as a wildcat QB and ran it up the middle. Watt was stuffed for a loss of one, and on the next play, Hoyer got picked off at the goal line. That effectively ended the game. The Texans got too cute there and it burned them.
4) The Chiefs didn't have to do too much in the 2nd half. Give them credit though because they were only 13-0 in the first half when it felt like they should have been up like 28-0, but they did what they had to do in second half. Alex Smith picked apart the "vaunted" Texans defense and put together two long scoring drives to really put the game away.
5) The Chiefs got their first playoff victory since 1993, and they now have an 11 game winning streak heading into Foxboro to take on the Patriots in the Divisional Round.
Pittsburgh-18 Cincinnati-16
AFC Wild Card Game
1) This might go down as one of the wildest, craziest, and borderline insane game of all time. It was pouring the entire game, and the first three quarters were pretty mundane. Pittsburgh built a 15-0 lead on their defense, an ice-cold A.J. McCarron, and one of best catches of the year when Martavis Bryant made an amazing catch in the corner of the end zone to give the Steelers what seemed like an unsurmountable lead heading into the 4th quarter.
2) At 15-0, the Bengals finally put together a drive, but Ryan Shazier knocked out Giovanni Bernard on a questionable helmet-to-helmet hit, and Bernard fumbled and the Steelers recovered. The replay showed that Shazier led with the crown of his helmet, and the Bengals and the crowd went nuts because Cincy was getting flagged for some questionable hits earlier in the game. This hit by Shazier sent the game into a frenzy.
3) From there, Vontaze Burfict sacked Ben Roethlisberger deep in his own end, and Big Ben came down on his shoulder and was hurt, and the momentum in the game completely turned. Cincy started to get hot, and they scored a touchdown to make it 15-7. After Landry Jones came in and basically crapped in his pants, so Cincy gets the ball back and A.J. McCarron gets hot and Cincy moves the ball down the field to make it 15-10.
4) After another Pittsburgh punt, Adam Jones had a big return, and A.J. McCarron led a big drive and hit A.J. Green on a 25-yard touchdown on a 3rd and 7 with 1:50 left. Cincy takes a 16-15 lead, and they go for two, but Hue Jackson, who is somehow a hot head-coaching candidate, called the worst play for a two-point conversion and a swing pass to Mohammad Sanu. Now, the Bengals lead 16-15, and this game then turned into the crazy zone.
5) On the very next play, Jones gets picked off by Vontaze Burfict, who was going insane this entire game, and the game looks like it is over and Cincy is going to win the game. Burfict also ran off the field into the end zone after he picked off Jones for some reason that no one seems to understand. Just bizarre.
6) With 1:36 left, at the Pittsburgh 26, Cincy had to run the ball because Pittsburgh had three timeouts left. Jeremy Hill gets 6 yards on first down, but he gets stripped by Shazier and he fumbles and Pittsburgh recovers at their own 9 yard line. The one thing that Hill could not do in that situation was fumble, but he fumbles and now Pittsburgh has a chance.
7) At this point, Big Ben came back into the game with a banged up shoulder just to try and give it a go. He couldn't really throw the ball more than 10 yards, but he gutted it out and put together a very gutsy drive to give his team a chance. Why did Cincy play so off and give them so much more room with Ben obviously compromised by his shoulder? Of course, Roethlisberger goes down the field and even hits Antonio Brown on a 4th and 3 conversion for 12 yards to the Cincy 47, but Pittsburgh has no timeouts and only 22 seconds left. Amazing that the Steelers were even in this game at the point.
8) After an incomplete pass to Antonio Brown, Vontaze Burfict hits Brown in the head with his shoulder, knocks Brown out cold, and gets flagged with a 15-yard unsportsmanlike penalty. Brown is laying there concussed, and for some reason Steelers assistant coach Joey Porter was on the field helping to tend to Brown, and Adam Jones gets flagged for an unsportsmanlike conduct for bumping an official while arguing with Porter, and now the Steelers have the ball at the Cincy 17. The Steelers then kick the game-winning field goal with only 14 seconds left. It was a complete meltdown by everyone involved with the Bengals. Burfict went head-hunting for Brown and got flagged, and Adam Jones reverts back to his "Pacman" days and gets flagged that essentially costs Cincy the game. It was one of the craziest moments I have ever seen in a playoff game.
9) The Steelers shouldn't avoid some criticism here. Why the hell is Joey Porter even on the field at this point of the game? It was just ridiculous and it added to the WWE-style aspect of this game. Just another crazy subplot in this crazy game.
10) This game reminded of what Vince McMahon envisioned when he created the XFL. This game will be always known to me as the "XFL" game. It was really just a wild and crazy night in Cincy. The Bengals now fall to 0-7 with Marvin Lewis as a head coach in the playoffs, and Cincy still hasn't won a playoff game since 1990. They were pound-for-pound the best team in the AFC all year, and now they are going home once again after their first playoff game. That is about as bad of a loss you can have as a Bengals fan, and there was a shot of a woman crying in the stands after the game, and it just about summed up what happened in this game to the Bengals and their fanbase.
11) The Steelers move on to Denver to take on the Broncos in the Divisional Round next week, and the injuries to Big Ben and Antonio Brown will be a very interesting theme going into this game.
Kansas City-30 Houston-0
AFC Wild Card Game
1) The tone of this game was set when Knile Davis took the opening kickoff 106 yards back for a touchdown to give KC the early lead. It took the air out of the stadium, and from that point on, it felt like the Texans had no chance to win.
2) Besides the kickoff, the only other aspect of note in this game was the play of Brian Hoyer. Hoyer threw 3 interceptions in the first half and fumbled another time in KC territory. He was flat out awful and should have been benched before he threw his fourth pick of the game in the second half. He finished 15-34 for 136 yards and 4 interceptions and a fumble. You can't overcome bad QB play in the playoffs, and Hoyer put up one of the most horrific games of any QB in recent playoff history.
3) This game was 13-0 in the first half, and Houston was driving inside the 5, when Bill O'Brien called a play where J.J. Watt lined up as a wildcat QB and ran it up the middle. Watt was stuffed for a loss of one, and on the next play, Hoyer got picked off at the goal line. That effectively ended the game. The Texans got too cute there and it burned them.
4) The Chiefs didn't have to do too much in the 2nd half. Give them credit though because they were only 13-0 in the first half when it felt like they should have been up like 28-0, but they did what they had to do in second half. Alex Smith picked apart the "vaunted" Texans defense and put together two long scoring drives to really put the game away.
5) The Chiefs got their first playoff victory since 1993, and they now have an 11 game winning streak heading into Foxboro to take on the Patriots in the Divisional Round.
Pittsburgh-18 Cincinnati-16
AFC Wild Card Game
1) This might go down as one of the wildest, craziest, and borderline insane game of all time. It was pouring the entire game, and the first three quarters were pretty mundane. Pittsburgh built a 15-0 lead on their defense, an ice-cold A.J. McCarron, and one of best catches of the year when Martavis Bryant made an amazing catch in the corner of the end zone to give the Steelers what seemed like an unsurmountable lead heading into the 4th quarter.
2) At 15-0, the Bengals finally put together a drive, but Ryan Shazier knocked out Giovanni Bernard on a questionable helmet-to-helmet hit, and Bernard fumbled and the Steelers recovered. The replay showed that Shazier led with the crown of his helmet, and the Bengals and the crowd went nuts because Cincy was getting flagged for some questionable hits earlier in the game. This hit by Shazier sent the game into a frenzy.
3) From there, Vontaze Burfict sacked Ben Roethlisberger deep in his own end, and Big Ben came down on his shoulder and was hurt, and the momentum in the game completely turned. Cincy started to get hot, and they scored a touchdown to make it 15-7. After Landry Jones came in and basically crapped in his pants, so Cincy gets the ball back and A.J. McCarron gets hot and Cincy moves the ball down the field to make it 15-10.
4) After another Pittsburgh punt, Adam Jones had a big return, and A.J. McCarron led a big drive and hit A.J. Green on a 25-yard touchdown on a 3rd and 7 with 1:50 left. Cincy takes a 16-15 lead, and they go for two, but Hue Jackson, who is somehow a hot head-coaching candidate, called the worst play for a two-point conversion and a swing pass to Mohammad Sanu. Now, the Bengals lead 16-15, and this game then turned into the crazy zone.
5) On the very next play, Jones gets picked off by Vontaze Burfict, who was going insane this entire game, and the game looks like it is over and Cincy is going to win the game. Burfict also ran off the field into the end zone after he picked off Jones for some reason that no one seems to understand. Just bizarre.
6) With 1:36 left, at the Pittsburgh 26, Cincy had to run the ball because Pittsburgh had three timeouts left. Jeremy Hill gets 6 yards on first down, but he gets stripped by Shazier and he fumbles and Pittsburgh recovers at their own 9 yard line. The one thing that Hill could not do in that situation was fumble, but he fumbles and now Pittsburgh has a chance.
7) At this point, Big Ben came back into the game with a banged up shoulder just to try and give it a go. He couldn't really throw the ball more than 10 yards, but he gutted it out and put together a very gutsy drive to give his team a chance. Why did Cincy play so off and give them so much more room with Ben obviously compromised by his shoulder? Of course, Roethlisberger goes down the field and even hits Antonio Brown on a 4th and 3 conversion for 12 yards to the Cincy 47, but Pittsburgh has no timeouts and only 22 seconds left. Amazing that the Steelers were even in this game at the point.
8) After an incomplete pass to Antonio Brown, Vontaze Burfict hits Brown in the head with his shoulder, knocks Brown out cold, and gets flagged with a 15-yard unsportsmanlike penalty. Brown is laying there concussed, and for some reason Steelers assistant coach Joey Porter was on the field helping to tend to Brown, and Adam Jones gets flagged for an unsportsmanlike conduct for bumping an official while arguing with Porter, and now the Steelers have the ball at the Cincy 17. The Steelers then kick the game-winning field goal with only 14 seconds left. It was a complete meltdown by everyone involved with the Bengals. Burfict went head-hunting for Brown and got flagged, and Adam Jones reverts back to his "Pacman" days and gets flagged that essentially costs Cincy the game. It was one of the craziest moments I have ever seen in a playoff game.
9) The Steelers shouldn't avoid some criticism here. Why the hell is Joey Porter even on the field at this point of the game? It was just ridiculous and it added to the WWE-style aspect of this game. Just another crazy subplot in this crazy game.
10) This game reminded of what Vince McMahon envisioned when he created the XFL. This game will be always known to me as the "XFL" game. It was really just a wild and crazy night in Cincy. The Bengals now fall to 0-7 with Marvin Lewis as a head coach in the playoffs, and Cincy still hasn't won a playoff game since 1990. They were pound-for-pound the best team in the AFC all year, and now they are going home once again after their first playoff game. That is about as bad of a loss you can have as a Bengals fan, and there was a shot of a woman crying in the stands after the game, and it just about summed up what happened in this game to the Bengals and their fanbase.
11) The Steelers move on to Denver to take on the Broncos in the Divisional Round next week, and the injuries to Big Ben and Antonio Brown will be a very interesting theme going into this game.
Friday, January 8, 2016
Peyton Manning Named Starter for Playoffs
In a move that wasn't surprising at all, Gary Kubiak named Peyton Manning the starter for the Divisional Playoff game for the Broncos in two weeks. After Manning came in relief of Brock Osweiler on Sunday, and Denver came back to win the game, the idea that Manning was going to start the playoffs was the prevailing thought. Now it is a reality: The Sheriff is back in town, and the Broncos are going with Peyton Manning for one last ride.
Wild Card Weekend Picks!
Wild Card weekend is here, and as a Broncos fan, I can just sit back and relax and watch all the games unfold-with a very keen eye set towards the two AFC games. I always enjoyed Wild Card weekend because it usually has the chance to have some of the wildest games and craziest finishes of the entire postseason. This weekend features some really intriguing matchups, and it is a rare year because all four road teams are favorites heading into the weekend. Before I get to the predictions, I have a bone to pick with the NFL. Why the hell did they mess with the playoff schedule so much? This is the first time since 1977 that they put games on from the same conference on the same day. In '77, there were only four teams in each conference that made the playoffs, so it made some sense back then, but I'm shocked they did this in this current format. I understand that the networks have a lot of say, but to have both AFC games on Saturday and both NFC games on Sunday is just strange. In any event, the NFL postseason kicks off on Saturday and the race to Super Bowl 50 begins. Here are my picks for Wild Card weekend.....
Last Week's Record: 9-7
Overall Record: 123-125-11
5-Kansas City at 4-Houston (AFC Wild Card Game)
A Case for the Chiefs: They are one of the hottest teams in the NFL heading into the playoffs. They are riding a 10-game winning streak. They feature a really good defense. The Chiefs have only given up 287 points this year, and they feature a very good secondary and a stellar pass rush with Justin Houston and Tamba Hali. Can't you see those two just harassing Brian Hoyer in this game? You do worry a little about Andy Reid's game management at times, but he is a veteran coach who has been on the sidelines for a lot of playoff games. The Chiefs did pound the Texans in Houston in Week 1, and it is hard to see them falling apart in this spot-especially with the run they have put together. Plus, the Chiefs haven't won a playoff game since 1993 when Joe Montana was their QB. You have to think they are due to get one.
A Case for the Texans: After a horrific 2-5 start that saw their defense just look awful, the Texans turned it around to finish the season 7-2 and win the AFC South. The catalyst for that was their defense. They have been very stout since November 1st. Houston has only given up 313 points this year, and now they get an offense that isn't the most explosive in football. Can't you see J.J. Watt just terrorizing Alex Smith all game long? Brian Hoyer is back as their starter, and they have one of the best skill players on the field in this game with DeAndre Hopkins. He can take over any game. Being at home will help them, and throw out the loss to KC in Week 1 because that was a long, long time ago. Plus, everyone is picking the Chiefs as the "sexy" pick in the AFC, so that will give the Texans plenty of motivation.
Prediction: Kansas City (-3) over HOUSTON: Although, I think this game will be close and I give the Texans a legitimate chance to win, I just think that the Chiefs and their momentum will continue for at least one more week. KC is due for a playoff victory, and I think they will get it this week.
Final Score: Chiefs-23 Texans-16
6-Pittsburgh at 3-Cincinatti (AFC Wild Card Game)
A Case for the Steelers: They have the most explosive passing game in the NFL, and they have a Hall of Fame QB, who is also a two-time Super Bowl winner. Ben Roethlisberger and Antonio Brown can't be stopped and they are worth at least 21 points just stepping off the bus. They know they can win in Cincy after beating the Bengals a month ago. They might just have their number. They might have swept the Bengals this year if they didn't make so many mistakes in their loss to Cincy earlier in Pittsburgh earlier this season. A week ago, they needed help to get in, and then all of a sudden the Jets lose to Buffalo and they beat Cleveland, and now they find themselves in the tournament as one of those teams that no one wants to play. Plus, they get the opportunity to knock the Bengals off with A.J. McCarron starting at QB, while Andy Dalton still recovers from his thumb injury. Last year, heading into the playoffs, they were the team that no one wanted to face, and they blew it by losing to the Ravens at home. It is hard to see Mike Tomlin and Big Ben losing another first round game this year.
A Case for the Bengals: Pound for pound this might be the most complete team in the AFC. They are solid in every aspect on their roster. The only question mark they have is at QB with backup A.J. McCarron getting the start in place of Andy Dalton. The Bengals didn't want to see Pittsburgh in this spot, but they haven't won a playoff game since 1990, and Marvin Lewis hasn't won a playoff game in his tenure as Bengals coach, with a record of 0-6. They are certainly due for a win this year. What better way to get that coveted playoff win with a victory over their arch rival. Everyone is picking the Steelers, and you have to think that will motivate the Bengals here. Even with McCarron at QB, they should be able to move the ball on this Pittsburgh defense because they have guys like A.J. Green and Tyler Eifert leading the way. Plus, they are at home in primetime on Saturday night. This has all the makings of a big effort and big performance by the Bengals to finally get that playoff victory.
Prediction: CINCINNATI (+3) over Pittsburgh: I'm not going to be surprised if the Steelers win this game, but I just have a feeling that this is the Bengals moment. Even with McCarron starting at QB, I think Cincy finds a way and gets Marvin Lewis his first playoff win as head coach, and the Bengals will send themselves to New England for a Round 2 matchup with the Patriots.
Final Score: Bengals-24 Steelers-21
6-Seattle at 3-Minnesota (NFC Wild Card Game)
A Case for the Seahawks: There aren't many other QBs who are playing better than Russell Wilson right now. He is on fire over the last month. Plus, it looks like the Seahawks are getting Marshawn Lynch back for this game. That will certainly help the offense. We know how battle-tested this group is. They have played 8 playoff games since 2012 and have been to two Super Bowls in a row. They destroyed Vikings in this same building a few weeks ago. Their defense shut down the Vikings in that first game, and it looks like Adrian Peterson won't be 100%, so that will definitely be an advantage for them. They might be one of the hottest teams going into the NFC playoffs, and this is definitely a better matchup for them, than if they had to go to Washington.
A Case for the Vikings: They got absolutely destroyed by the Seahawks at home a few weeks ago, but you know how different a game can be a second time around. Nobody, and I mean NOBODY, is picking them to pull off the upset. You know how that can serve as motivation for them in this spot. I also think they are playing with house money. They are a young team, who in Mike Zimmer's second year, just knocked off the Packers to win the NFC North. All the pressure is on the Seahawks because they are built to win now, and the Vikings are a team that exceeded many expectations this year. Also, the fans of Minnesota will be pumped up because the Vikings are hosting their first outdoor playoff game since the 1970s, and it will be a very cool scene on Sunday in that stadium.
Prediction: Seattle (-4) over MINNESOTA: The weather will be the story in this game. It looks like the high will be like 9 degrees with a wind chill that will drop it into negative weather and high winds throughout the game. How both teams will handle the weather will be a huge storyline. In any event, I think it is hard to see the Seahawks losing this game. It will be closer than the game they played a month ago, but look for a Seattle win, and the Seahawks punching their ticket to Round 2 and a date with the Panthers.
Final Score: Seahawks-27 Vikings-20
5-Green Bay at 4-Washington (NFC Wild Card Game)
A Case for the Packers: The Packers started 6-0 and finished 4-6 their last 10 games, and one of those wins was the Hail Mary win over the Lions. Although they have struggled mightily the last few months, you still like your chances when Aaron Rodgers is your QB. I know their running game stinks, and I know that their offensive line can't protect right now, but when you have one of the best QBs on the planet on your team in a playoff game, you have a legitimate chance to win the game. Couldn't you just see Rodgers putting this team on his back and winning this game on his own? I know I could. Also, if you are a Packers fan, can you see a scenario where Kirk Cousins just implodes and the Packers defense takes advantage and gets a few turnovers? Don't sleep on the Packers here-especially since most of the nation is picking against them.
A Case for the Redskins: They have been the better team over the last two months than the Packers. They are at home in front of a fanbase that has been pleasantly surprised by this group and is legitimately excited and pumped up for this game. Also, Kirk Cousins has been one of the 2-3 best QBs in the entire NFL the last two months. You have the like the mojo that the Redskins have with the whole "You Like That" motto. Plus, are we sure that the Packers offensive line is going to be able to hold up to the Skins pass rush? Also, believe it or not, but the Skins have the coaching advantage with Jay Gruden over Mike McCarthy. This could be one of those games where Kirk Cousins continues his hot streak, and Washington just puts it on the Packers.
Prediction: Green Bay (+2) over WASHINGTON: I know the smart play is to pick the Redskins here, but I just have a feeling that Aaron Rodgers is going to pull something off in this game. I expect a really close game. This might be the game of the weekend. But, I have a hard time betting against Rodgers, and I see a late comeback and a late win for the Packers to send them to Arizona next week.
Final Score: Packers-27 Redskins-24
Last Week's Record: 9-7
Overall Record: 123-125-11
5-Kansas City at 4-Houston (AFC Wild Card Game)
A Case for the Chiefs: They are one of the hottest teams in the NFL heading into the playoffs. They are riding a 10-game winning streak. They feature a really good defense. The Chiefs have only given up 287 points this year, and they feature a very good secondary and a stellar pass rush with Justin Houston and Tamba Hali. Can't you see those two just harassing Brian Hoyer in this game? You do worry a little about Andy Reid's game management at times, but he is a veteran coach who has been on the sidelines for a lot of playoff games. The Chiefs did pound the Texans in Houston in Week 1, and it is hard to see them falling apart in this spot-especially with the run they have put together. Plus, the Chiefs haven't won a playoff game since 1993 when Joe Montana was their QB. You have to think they are due to get one.
A Case for the Texans: After a horrific 2-5 start that saw their defense just look awful, the Texans turned it around to finish the season 7-2 and win the AFC South. The catalyst for that was their defense. They have been very stout since November 1st. Houston has only given up 313 points this year, and now they get an offense that isn't the most explosive in football. Can't you see J.J. Watt just terrorizing Alex Smith all game long? Brian Hoyer is back as their starter, and they have one of the best skill players on the field in this game with DeAndre Hopkins. He can take over any game. Being at home will help them, and throw out the loss to KC in Week 1 because that was a long, long time ago. Plus, everyone is picking the Chiefs as the "sexy" pick in the AFC, so that will give the Texans plenty of motivation.
Prediction: Kansas City (-3) over HOUSTON: Although, I think this game will be close and I give the Texans a legitimate chance to win, I just think that the Chiefs and their momentum will continue for at least one more week. KC is due for a playoff victory, and I think they will get it this week.
Final Score: Chiefs-23 Texans-16
6-Pittsburgh at 3-Cincinatti (AFC Wild Card Game)
A Case for the Steelers: They have the most explosive passing game in the NFL, and they have a Hall of Fame QB, who is also a two-time Super Bowl winner. Ben Roethlisberger and Antonio Brown can't be stopped and they are worth at least 21 points just stepping off the bus. They know they can win in Cincy after beating the Bengals a month ago. They might just have their number. They might have swept the Bengals this year if they didn't make so many mistakes in their loss to Cincy earlier in Pittsburgh earlier this season. A week ago, they needed help to get in, and then all of a sudden the Jets lose to Buffalo and they beat Cleveland, and now they find themselves in the tournament as one of those teams that no one wants to play. Plus, they get the opportunity to knock the Bengals off with A.J. McCarron starting at QB, while Andy Dalton still recovers from his thumb injury. Last year, heading into the playoffs, they were the team that no one wanted to face, and they blew it by losing to the Ravens at home. It is hard to see Mike Tomlin and Big Ben losing another first round game this year.
A Case for the Bengals: Pound for pound this might be the most complete team in the AFC. They are solid in every aspect on their roster. The only question mark they have is at QB with backup A.J. McCarron getting the start in place of Andy Dalton. The Bengals didn't want to see Pittsburgh in this spot, but they haven't won a playoff game since 1990, and Marvin Lewis hasn't won a playoff game in his tenure as Bengals coach, with a record of 0-6. They are certainly due for a win this year. What better way to get that coveted playoff win with a victory over their arch rival. Everyone is picking the Steelers, and you have to think that will motivate the Bengals here. Even with McCarron at QB, they should be able to move the ball on this Pittsburgh defense because they have guys like A.J. Green and Tyler Eifert leading the way. Plus, they are at home in primetime on Saturday night. This has all the makings of a big effort and big performance by the Bengals to finally get that playoff victory.
Prediction: CINCINNATI (+3) over Pittsburgh: I'm not going to be surprised if the Steelers win this game, but I just have a feeling that this is the Bengals moment. Even with McCarron starting at QB, I think Cincy finds a way and gets Marvin Lewis his first playoff win as head coach, and the Bengals will send themselves to New England for a Round 2 matchup with the Patriots.
Final Score: Bengals-24 Steelers-21
6-Seattle at 3-Minnesota (NFC Wild Card Game)
A Case for the Seahawks: There aren't many other QBs who are playing better than Russell Wilson right now. He is on fire over the last month. Plus, it looks like the Seahawks are getting Marshawn Lynch back for this game. That will certainly help the offense. We know how battle-tested this group is. They have played 8 playoff games since 2012 and have been to two Super Bowls in a row. They destroyed Vikings in this same building a few weeks ago. Their defense shut down the Vikings in that first game, and it looks like Adrian Peterson won't be 100%, so that will definitely be an advantage for them. They might be one of the hottest teams going into the NFC playoffs, and this is definitely a better matchup for them, than if they had to go to Washington.
A Case for the Vikings: They got absolutely destroyed by the Seahawks at home a few weeks ago, but you know how different a game can be a second time around. Nobody, and I mean NOBODY, is picking them to pull off the upset. You know how that can serve as motivation for them in this spot. I also think they are playing with house money. They are a young team, who in Mike Zimmer's second year, just knocked off the Packers to win the NFC North. All the pressure is on the Seahawks because they are built to win now, and the Vikings are a team that exceeded many expectations this year. Also, the fans of Minnesota will be pumped up because the Vikings are hosting their first outdoor playoff game since the 1970s, and it will be a very cool scene on Sunday in that stadium.
Prediction: Seattle (-4) over MINNESOTA: The weather will be the story in this game. It looks like the high will be like 9 degrees with a wind chill that will drop it into negative weather and high winds throughout the game. How both teams will handle the weather will be a huge storyline. In any event, I think it is hard to see the Seahawks losing this game. It will be closer than the game they played a month ago, but look for a Seattle win, and the Seahawks punching their ticket to Round 2 and a date with the Panthers.
Final Score: Seahawks-27 Vikings-20
5-Green Bay at 4-Washington (NFC Wild Card Game)
A Case for the Packers: The Packers started 6-0 and finished 4-6 their last 10 games, and one of those wins was the Hail Mary win over the Lions. Although they have struggled mightily the last few months, you still like your chances when Aaron Rodgers is your QB. I know their running game stinks, and I know that their offensive line can't protect right now, but when you have one of the best QBs on the planet on your team in a playoff game, you have a legitimate chance to win the game. Couldn't you just see Rodgers putting this team on his back and winning this game on his own? I know I could. Also, if you are a Packers fan, can you see a scenario where Kirk Cousins just implodes and the Packers defense takes advantage and gets a few turnovers? Don't sleep on the Packers here-especially since most of the nation is picking against them.
A Case for the Redskins: They have been the better team over the last two months than the Packers. They are at home in front of a fanbase that has been pleasantly surprised by this group and is legitimately excited and pumped up for this game. Also, Kirk Cousins has been one of the 2-3 best QBs in the entire NFL the last two months. You have the like the mojo that the Redskins have with the whole "You Like That" motto. Plus, are we sure that the Packers offensive line is going to be able to hold up to the Skins pass rush? Also, believe it or not, but the Skins have the coaching advantage with Jay Gruden over Mike McCarthy. This could be one of those games where Kirk Cousins continues his hot streak, and Washington just puts it on the Packers.
Prediction: Green Bay (+2) over WASHINGTON: I know the smart play is to pick the Redskins here, but I just have a feeling that Aaron Rodgers is going to pull something off in this game. I expect a really close game. This might be the game of the weekend. But, I have a hard time betting against Rodgers, and I see a late comeback and a late win for the Packers to send them to Arizona next week.
Final Score: Packers-27 Redskins-24
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Broncos Clinch AFC West With Win Over Chargers as Manning Returns!
The Broncos clinched the AFC West and the #1 seed in the AFC, due to the Patriots loss on Sunday, with a 27-20 win over the Chargers at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. It was a game that featured the Broncos turning the ball over 5 times in just over a half, and then the Broncos turned to Peyton Manning in relief of Brock Osweiler to rally the troops and get the win for the Broncos. There is so much controversy surrounding the game and use of Manning, but the bottom line is that the Broncos needed this win to avoid losing the division and finishing as a wild card, but Gary Kubiak made the gutsy call
1) You can't ask for a better start with Demaryius Thomas 72 yard catch and run for an early 7-0 lead two plays in the game. It was the perfect way to start the game, and you had a feeling that Denver was going to run away with this game and #1 seed.
2) The Broncos just completely melted down from there. Five turnovers in the next six possessions. Emmanuel Sanders fumbled inside the five after a long catch and run. Both Osweiler interceptions weren't his fault. One was off of Jordan Norwood's hands on a third down. Another pick was a result of Brock's arm getting hit while he was throwing. A blindside sack and a forced fumble on Osweiler forced another turnover deep in San Diego territory. Then, C.J. Anderson coughed it up in the third quarter deep in their own territory. It is not Osweiler's fault because he played a pretty good first half, but the team needed a spark, and the Broncos were facing a must-win situation with the AFC West and the #1 seed on the line, and Kubiak felt like the team needed something to change. This game should have been 17-3 or even 21-3, instead it was 13-7 San Diego in the third quarter, and it felt like the game was going to slip through their hands. You can't fault Brock and it was a questionable decision and a gutsy one, but it paid off. You just can't have Peyton Manning sitting on the sideline with the #1 seed and the AFC West slipping away, so Kubiak made the move and it ended up paying off.
3) It wasn't like Manning was vintage Peyton, but he checked into the right run plays, completed a few passes to Thomas and Sanders, drew the Chargers offside a couple of times, and it was enough to get the team going, produce 20 points and help the team get the win. Amazing story and totally bizarre. Forget about the QB controversy because for this game and this moment with everything on the line, Manning provided enough of a difference to get the Broncos over the hump and win the game.
4) The Broncos defense did a heck of a job once again. When your offense commits five turnovers, your defense can only do so much, but the Broncos defense did it once again. The usual guys played well like they always do, but give guys like Derek Wolfe and Bradley Roby credit. I thought both of those guys played really well. Also, Shiloh Keo makes a key interception late to set up Ronnie Hillman's game-winning touchdown run to give the Broncos the 27-20 lead. The defense did have some spotty moments on the last Chargers drive, and on a 4th and 6, Philip Rivers had a wide open receiver in the middle of the field, but as the pocket collapsed, he was forced to throw early and the pass was intercepted. The only mistake this defense made in this game was when Aqib Talib blew a coverage and Phillip Rivers threw an 80 yard touchdown to give the Chargers a 20-17 lead early in the 4th quarter.
5) The day started with the Patriots losing to Miami, so the #1 seed was in play for the Broncos. Then, KC was in complete control over the Raiders, so the Broncos were either going to win and get the #1 seed or lose and get the #5 seed. It was an amazing set of circumstances for this game to play out. Then, Denver and Osweiler comes out on fire, but they turned the ball over five times, and you are thinking "Holy Shit, we are going to blow this game, and end up as a wild card on the road at Houston next week." Then, to add more intrigue, Manning comes in the game in relief and the Broncos rally to win the game, finish 12-4, win the West, and now have homefield throughout the playoffs in the AFC. Just bizarre and wild.
6) I knew this game was going to be close all week. That is just how the Broncos played virtually every game this year, so why would we change anything at this point. This game should have been a run away victory for the Broncos, but miscues and turnovers kept this game close, and now they are in a dogfight with the 4-11 Chargers. But, like they proved all season long, their defense made the plays when they needed to, and their offense did just enough at the end to win the game. This game was a microcosm of the entire Broncos season.
7) Hats off to John Elway, Gary Kubiak, and the entire Broncos team and organization. A 12-4 season, a 5th straight AFC West title, and the #1 seed for the third time in four years in the AFC. Also, this might be the most inconsistent 1 seed in recent memory, and nothing will surprise me when the Broncos play their first playoff game in two weeks, but that is for another time. Let's just enjoy this and enjoy the week off and watching the first round games on Wild Card weekend.
1) You can't ask for a better start with Demaryius Thomas 72 yard catch and run for an early 7-0 lead two plays in the game. It was the perfect way to start the game, and you had a feeling that Denver was going to run away with this game and #1 seed.
2) The Broncos just completely melted down from there. Five turnovers in the next six possessions. Emmanuel Sanders fumbled inside the five after a long catch and run. Both Osweiler interceptions weren't his fault. One was off of Jordan Norwood's hands on a third down. Another pick was a result of Brock's arm getting hit while he was throwing. A blindside sack and a forced fumble on Osweiler forced another turnover deep in San Diego territory. Then, C.J. Anderson coughed it up in the third quarter deep in their own territory. It is not Osweiler's fault because he played a pretty good first half, but the team needed a spark, and the Broncos were facing a must-win situation with the AFC West and the #1 seed on the line, and Kubiak felt like the team needed something to change. This game should have been 17-3 or even 21-3, instead it was 13-7 San Diego in the third quarter, and it felt like the game was going to slip through their hands. You can't fault Brock and it was a questionable decision and a gutsy one, but it paid off. You just can't have Peyton Manning sitting on the sideline with the #1 seed and the AFC West slipping away, so Kubiak made the move and it ended up paying off.
3) It wasn't like Manning was vintage Peyton, but he checked into the right run plays, completed a few passes to Thomas and Sanders, drew the Chargers offside a couple of times, and it was enough to get the team going, produce 20 points and help the team get the win. Amazing story and totally bizarre. Forget about the QB controversy because for this game and this moment with everything on the line, Manning provided enough of a difference to get the Broncos over the hump and win the game.
4) The Broncos defense did a heck of a job once again. When your offense commits five turnovers, your defense can only do so much, but the Broncos defense did it once again. The usual guys played well like they always do, but give guys like Derek Wolfe and Bradley Roby credit. I thought both of those guys played really well. Also, Shiloh Keo makes a key interception late to set up Ronnie Hillman's game-winning touchdown run to give the Broncos the 27-20 lead. The defense did have some spotty moments on the last Chargers drive, and on a 4th and 6, Philip Rivers had a wide open receiver in the middle of the field, but as the pocket collapsed, he was forced to throw early and the pass was intercepted. The only mistake this defense made in this game was when Aqib Talib blew a coverage and Phillip Rivers threw an 80 yard touchdown to give the Chargers a 20-17 lead early in the 4th quarter.
5) The day started with the Patriots losing to Miami, so the #1 seed was in play for the Broncos. Then, KC was in complete control over the Raiders, so the Broncos were either going to win and get the #1 seed or lose and get the #5 seed. It was an amazing set of circumstances for this game to play out. Then, Denver and Osweiler comes out on fire, but they turned the ball over five times, and you are thinking "Holy Shit, we are going to blow this game, and end up as a wild card on the road at Houston next week." Then, to add more intrigue, Manning comes in the game in relief and the Broncos rally to win the game, finish 12-4, win the West, and now have homefield throughout the playoffs in the AFC. Just bizarre and wild.
6) I knew this game was going to be close all week. That is just how the Broncos played virtually every game this year, so why would we change anything at this point. This game should have been a run away victory for the Broncos, but miscues and turnovers kept this game close, and now they are in a dogfight with the 4-11 Chargers. But, like they proved all season long, their defense made the plays when they needed to, and their offense did just enough at the end to win the game. This game was a microcosm of the entire Broncos season.
7) Hats off to John Elway, Gary Kubiak, and the entire Broncos team and organization. A 12-4 season, a 5th straight AFC West title, and the #1 seed for the third time in four years in the AFC. Also, this might be the most inconsistent 1 seed in recent memory, and nothing will surprise me when the Broncos play their first playoff game in two weeks, but that is for another time. Let's just enjoy this and enjoy the week off and watching the first round games on Wild Card weekend.
Sunday, January 3, 2016
Broncos-Chargers Week 17 Preview
The Broncos enter Sunday's season finale with a lot on the line. A win would give them the AFC West and most likely the #2 seed in the AFC and bye in the first round. A loss could cost them the division and most likely a wild card game on the road next week. The Chargers come in at 4-10, with a team that is banged up and has nothing to play for. Why does this game scare me? First, the Chargers have Phillip Rivers, and when you have a guy like Rivers, you are never out of any game. Secondly, the Chargers had 10 days off since their last game on Christmas Eve, and the Broncos played a physical game on Monday night, so they only have had 5 days rest. That makes a big difference. Lastly, the 2015 Broncos never make anything easy. No matter who is playing at QB, the Broncos give their fans a heart attack every week, and their style of play is very conducive to low scoring, close games. I think they will find a way to win this game, but I expect another close one.
San Diego (+9) over DENVER:
Final Score: Broncos-20- Chargers-19
San Diego (+9) over DENVER:
Final Score: Broncos-20- Chargers-19
Week 17 Picks and 2015 NFL Playoff Schedule Predictions!
I'm going with a little bit of a different format for this week's picks. I'll list the meaningless games first with no real analysis attached. Then, I'll breakdown my picks for the other Week 17 games that are important. Finally, I'll add my Playoff Schedule Predictions at the end. I'll leave the Broncos-Chargers preview for a separate column. Here we go with the picks for Week 17...
Last Week's Record: 9-7
Overall Record: 114-118-11
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Meaningless Games:
ATLANTA (-3) over New Orleans
Washington (+3) over DALLAS
Detroit (+1) over CHICAGO
NY GIANTS (-3) over Philly
SAN FRANCISCO (+3) over St. Louis
Games with Playoff Implications:
New York Jets (-3) over BUFFALO: This is usually a game that the Jets would lose, but I just think that they will find a way to grind out a win over Rex Ryan and the Bills in Buffalo to gain a playoff berth. You know Rex will have his team very fired up and ready to knock the Jets out of the playoffs, but I just have a feeling that the Jets will get it done. They have played very well the last month, and they are the better team, and they will be a very dangerous team once the playoffs begin.
Tampa Bay (+10) over CAROLINA: The Panthers will win this game outright, but I think it will be closer than the spread. Carolina will finish 15-1 and lock up the #1 seed in the NFC.
New England (-9) over MIAMI: The Pats will take care of business and pound the Dolphins in Miami to take the #1 seed in the AFC.
CINCY (-7) over Baltimore: Cincy won't sleep on the Ravens, and they will finish 12-4 and rebound from their tough loss in Week 16 to the Broncos, and they are most likely looking at the #3 seed.
Jacksonville (+7) over HOUSTON: The Texans will win the game, and Brian Hoyer will get the start at QB for them, so they will clinch the AFC South and the #4 seed as they finish 9-7. Nice work by Bill O'Brien in getting this team to the playoffs after a 1-4 start to the year.
Pittsburgh (-9) over CLEVELAND: The Steelers will take out their frustrations on the hapless Browns and win this game going away, but they will finish 10-6 and on the outside looking in because the Jets will win in Buffalo.
Tennessee (+7) over INDY: The Colts have to win, Houston has to lose, and 8 other games have to break right for them to make the playoffs. Their odds of that happening are like 3,000-1. I don't even know if they will win this game because Andrew Luck, Matt Hasselback, and Charlie Whitehurst are all injured for this game. They might have to start either Josh Freeman or Ryan Lindley for this game. Yikes!
Kansas City (-4) over Oakland: I think the Chiefs will finish the season with 10 straight wins and an 11-5 record. I think this game will be close, and the Raiders will fight hard to get to 8-8, but I have to give the edge to KC to finish out their run and win this game at home.
Seattle (+7) over ARIZONA: I think Arizona is the best team in the NFL, but I don't know if they are going to go all out for this game, even if they have a chance at the #1 seed in the NFC. I think Seattle will play with more desperation to avoid being the #6 seed. Arizona finishes 13-3 and #2 seed and Seattle finishes 10-6 and the #5 seed.
GREEN BAY (-3) over Minnesota: As bad as the Packers have looked at times, I would be shocked if they don't take care of business and efeat the Vikings at home in Lambeau Field on Sunday Night Football with the AFC North on the line. The Packers win and get the #3 seed and the Vikings finish 10-6 and get the #6 seed. These two teams will square off once again the following week during Wild Card Weekend.
2015 NFL Playoff Schedule Predictions:
I think that the NFL will give FOX the late Sunday game on Divisional Weekend because FOX only has 1 game that weekend because NBC will get the early NFC game on that Saturday. That will give CBS the late Sunday game on Wild Card Sunday in Round 1. I'm also basing this off the fact that nothing major changes on Sunday and the likely results happen in Week 17.
Wild Card Weekend
Saturday Jan 9th
4:30pm EST-AFC Wild Card Game (ESPN)
(5) Kansas City at (4) Houston
8:00pm EST-NFC Wild Card Game (NBC)
(5) Seattle at (4) Washington
Sunday Jan 10th
1:00pm EST-NFC Wild Card Game (FOX)
(6) Minnesota at (3) Green Bay
4:30pm EST-AFC Wild Card Game (CBS)
(6) NY Jets at (3) Cincinnati
Divisional Weekend
Saturday Jan 16th
4:30 pm EST-NFC Divisional Playoff (NBC)
at (2) Arizona
8:00pm EST-AFC Divisional Playoff (CBS)
at (2) Denver
Sunday Jan 17th
1:00pm EST-AFC Divisional Playoff (CBS)
at (1) New England
4:30pm EST-NFC Divisional Playoff (FOX)
at (1) Carolina
Last Week's Record: 9-7
Overall Record: 114-118-11
(HOME TEAM IN CAPS)
Meaningless Games:
ATLANTA (-3) over New Orleans
Washington (+3) over DALLAS
Detroit (+1) over CHICAGO
NY GIANTS (-3) over Philly
SAN FRANCISCO (+3) over St. Louis
Games with Playoff Implications:
New York Jets (-3) over BUFFALO: This is usually a game that the Jets would lose, but I just think that they will find a way to grind out a win over Rex Ryan and the Bills in Buffalo to gain a playoff berth. You know Rex will have his team very fired up and ready to knock the Jets out of the playoffs, but I just have a feeling that the Jets will get it done. They have played very well the last month, and they are the better team, and they will be a very dangerous team once the playoffs begin.
Tampa Bay (+10) over CAROLINA: The Panthers will win this game outright, but I think it will be closer than the spread. Carolina will finish 15-1 and lock up the #1 seed in the NFC.
New England (-9) over MIAMI: The Pats will take care of business and pound the Dolphins in Miami to take the #1 seed in the AFC.
CINCY (-7) over Baltimore: Cincy won't sleep on the Ravens, and they will finish 12-4 and rebound from their tough loss in Week 16 to the Broncos, and they are most likely looking at the #3 seed.
Jacksonville (+7) over HOUSTON: The Texans will win the game, and Brian Hoyer will get the start at QB for them, so they will clinch the AFC South and the #4 seed as they finish 9-7. Nice work by Bill O'Brien in getting this team to the playoffs after a 1-4 start to the year.
Pittsburgh (-9) over CLEVELAND: The Steelers will take out their frustrations on the hapless Browns and win this game going away, but they will finish 10-6 and on the outside looking in because the Jets will win in Buffalo.
Tennessee (+7) over INDY: The Colts have to win, Houston has to lose, and 8 other games have to break right for them to make the playoffs. Their odds of that happening are like 3,000-1. I don't even know if they will win this game because Andrew Luck, Matt Hasselback, and Charlie Whitehurst are all injured for this game. They might have to start either Josh Freeman or Ryan Lindley for this game. Yikes!
Kansas City (-4) over Oakland: I think the Chiefs will finish the season with 10 straight wins and an 11-5 record. I think this game will be close, and the Raiders will fight hard to get to 8-8, but I have to give the edge to KC to finish out their run and win this game at home.
Seattle (+7) over ARIZONA: I think Arizona is the best team in the NFL, but I don't know if they are going to go all out for this game, even if they have a chance at the #1 seed in the NFC. I think Seattle will play with more desperation to avoid being the #6 seed. Arizona finishes 13-3 and #2 seed and Seattle finishes 10-6 and the #5 seed.
GREEN BAY (-3) over Minnesota: As bad as the Packers have looked at times, I would be shocked if they don't take care of business and efeat the Vikings at home in Lambeau Field on Sunday Night Football with the AFC North on the line. The Packers win and get the #3 seed and the Vikings finish 10-6 and get the #6 seed. These two teams will square off once again the following week during Wild Card Weekend.
2015 NFL Playoff Schedule Predictions:
I think that the NFL will give FOX the late Sunday game on Divisional Weekend because FOX only has 1 game that weekend because NBC will get the early NFC game on that Saturday. That will give CBS the late Sunday game on Wild Card Sunday in Round 1. I'm also basing this off the fact that nothing major changes on Sunday and the likely results happen in Week 17.
Wild Card Weekend
Saturday Jan 9th
4:30pm EST-AFC Wild Card Game (ESPN)
(5) Kansas City at (4) Houston
8:00pm EST-NFC Wild Card Game (NBC)
(5) Seattle at (4) Washington
Sunday Jan 10th
1:00pm EST-NFC Wild Card Game (FOX)
(6) Minnesota at (3) Green Bay
4:30pm EST-AFC Wild Card Game (CBS)
(6) NY Jets at (3) Cincinnati
Divisional Weekend
Saturday Jan 16th
4:30 pm EST-NFC Divisional Playoff (NBC)
at (2) Arizona
8:00pm EST-AFC Divisional Playoff (CBS)
at (2) Denver
Sunday Jan 17th
1:00pm EST-AFC Divisional Playoff (CBS)
at (1) New England
4:30pm EST-NFC Divisional Playoff (FOX)
at (1) Carolina
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)