NFL Wildcard Weekend Predictions

[Cornerville]

My picks:

 

LOCK of the Week:

 

NY Giants over Philadelphia: Why? No logic needed....."Experts" are all over the Eagles now...they are the 'hip pick' now..So now the Giants will play their best game...after all this is the MFL....NY always seems to beat Philly in these kinds of matchups in virtually every sport...why that is I have no idea. Giants 28 Eagles 23

Seattle over Dallas: Now Tony can spend more time with Carrie. I was fooled by the Cowboys in November. Cinderella Romo: It is almost Midnight. Seattle 31 Dallas 20

 

Indianapolis over Kansas City: Manning will feast on the KC defense. KC will keep it somewhat close, but you will never get a true sense they can win the game. Indy 38 Chiefs 27

 

New England over the Jets: Low scoring game on the docket here. I do not see it being close however. Brady will avenge the loss from earlier this year. Pats 24 Jets 10

 

What are your picks?

[Sketch Soland]

My picks:

 

LOCK of the Week:

 

NY Giants over Philadelphia: Why? No logic needed....."Experts" are all over the Eagles now...they are the 'hip pick' now..So now the Giants will play their best game...after all this is the MFL....NY always seems to beat Philly in these kinds of matchups in virtually every sport...why that is I have no idea. Giants 28 Eagles 23

Seattle over Dallas: Now Tony can spend more time with Carrie. I was fooled by the Cowboys in November. Cinderella Romo: It is almost Midnight. Seattle 31 Dallas 20

 

Indianapolis over Kansas City: Manning will feast on the KC defense. KC will keep it somewhat close, but you will never get a true sense they can win the game. Indy 38 Chiefs 27

 

New England over the Jets: Low scoring game on the docket here. I do not see it being close however. Brady will avenge the loss from earlier this year. Pats 24 Jets 10

 

What are your picks?

 

Houston over Buffalo: Why? Because the Run and Shoot is unstoppable in Rich Stadium in January, and if Jerry Glanville is known for one thing, its tactical prowess in the playoffs. Buffalo starts some backup QB and is dead in the water. Houston 35 Bills 3.

[SlamnSam]

My picks:

 

LOCK of the Week:

 

NY Giants over Philadelphia: Why? No logic needed....."Experts" are all over the Eagles now...they are the 'hip pick' now..So now the Giants will play their best game...after all this is the MFL....NY always seems to beat Philly in these kinds of matchups in virtually every sport...why that is I have no idea. Giants 28 Eagles 23

Seattle over Dallas: Now Tony can spend more time with Carrie. I was fooled by the Cowboys in November. Cinderella Romo: It is almost Midnight. Seattle 31 Dallas 20

 

Indianapolis over Kansas City: Manning will feast on the KC defense. KC will keep it somewhat close, but you will never get a true sense they can win the game. Indy 38 Chiefs 27

 

New England over the Jets: Low scoring game on the docket here. I do not see it being close however. Brady will avenge the loss from earlier this year. Pats 24 Jets 10

 

What are your picks?

 

 

Seattle is a lock over turnover tony and the no rush cowboys defense. Short speed routes by the Seattle recivers puts them in the driver seat, especially with a pass rush that does not exsist. Seattle 41 boys 13

[Miyagi-Do Karate]

My upset of the week is KC over Indy. In fact, if the seeding works out, I can see KC as the cindarella in the conference championship, losing to the next Super Bowl champs (the Pats).

[BuffaloWings]

My picks:

 

LOCK of the Week:

After my (lack of) success in picking games this year, I've come to one conclusion....there is no such thing as a lock.

 

My picks, regardless...

 

Colts vs Chiefs - Despite what Herm Edwards says, the Chiefs backed into the playoffs. They were almost as inconsistent as the Jaguars and Jets, but they won when they needed to - and got the help they needed. Their best weapon is the running game against Indy's D, but it's not like they'll run it every single play - which is what they'll have to do to win. Indy should pull this one out by out-scoring KC. Pick: Colts, 41-24

 

Seahawks vs Cowboys - Dallas isn't that bad of a team, but there are just way too many distractions right now for them to win. TO was a huge mistake and defenses have figured out Tony Romo. The wild card here is if Dallas defends Shaun Alexander, then the game is up for grabs. But....I don't think that'll happen. Seattle has enough of a passing game to counteract that and should pull out the win - especially at home. This could easily be a turnover-fest, but the home team should have the advantage. Pick: Seahawks, 23-13

 

Patriots vs Jets - I really don't want to pick this one, since I don't care for either team. But I have a feeling that Belichick intentionally didn't show all of his cards in the loss to the Jets in Foxboro. He'll pull out some weird formations on offense and different defensive fronts and Chad Pennington will have a miserable day. The Pats will make Pennington beat them and I don't see him being up to the task. Pick: Patriots, 27-10

 

Eagles vs Giants - I see no reason to believe the Giants can come together on the road and put together a full 60 minutes. The Eagles are playing well and they seem to have rediscovered Brian Westbrook. My only fear is that Jeff Garcia will turn the ball over too much, but even if he does, I don't see the Giants scoring much off of those. They're in even more disarray than Dallas is and this will likely be Tom Coughlin's last game. Pick: Eagles, 27-17

[ans4e64]

Eagles over Giants

 

Cowboys over Seahawks

 

Patriots over Jets

 

Indianapolis over Kansas City

[nate81]

Although I was hoping to receive a two possession spread with betting on the Chiefs, I still think they are coming with some value as expecting the Colts to win by two possessions is a lot to ask for- and it is not rocket science to why this is the case. As long as the Colts possess the worst run defense in the league, they will continue to find it hard to win by comfortable margins of victories, especially against teams that possess potent running games that can magnify their deficiencies, which the Chiefs are considered to have. Expect the Chiefs to establish a running game from the get go. The Chiefs possess what might be the best interior offensive line in football and what might be the best running back in the game in wearing down opposing fronts. The Colts lack size up front, and are extremely vulnerable to be getting worn down. Expect the Chiefs to establish an interior power game early on where they have the clear cut advantage to be able to grind out 4 yards on a consistent basis with an occasional big run. Even with stacked boxes, the Colts have failed miserably in trying to curtail oppositions running games. Although the return of Sanders should improve their run defense, he will more than likely be unable to make the impact most people are giving credit for. Not only is he coming off a long lay off that will hinder his game shape and limit the amount of plays that he will be in the game for, but he is still playing nowhere near 100 percent and won’t be the force that allowed him to be a pro bowler last year. Also, a strong safety can only do so much, as their role is to stop the bleeding a running game, not stop the running game, as they are a second level defender. The Chiefs should also be successful in attacking the Chiefs perimeter with Johnson in order to wear down the Colts edge rushers, making them less of a factor in pass rushing situations. Most importantly, the huge running advantage in which the Chiefs possess will keep Manning off the field and limit the chances the Colts get on offense to blow the Chiefs out. The Chiefs should also employ an ideal passing game plan against the Colts. Expect the running game to soften up the Colts defense, which should allow Green to play within his means, and use more three and five step drops compared to the last three games in which he struggled. With a stacked box, the Colts will find it hard to double up on Gonzalez, which should allow Green’s favorite passing option to find mismatches throughout the game against the Cover 2 is tight end friendly to begin with. Although the Colts pass defense ranks second in the league, that number is very misleading, as they allow quarterbacks to employ a very efficient passing game plan if they are willing to take what is given to them. The Colts are very generous in giving the opposition underneath routes and first level passes that chip away at the field. This is the exact role Green is best at, a role that will also allow him to gain much needed confidence after putting forth three sub par games in a row. Also, expect the short rhythm passes to offset the improving pass rush in which the Colts have been displaying in recent games. Johnson is also a potent receiver coming out of the backfield, which has proven to be a huge asset against this Colts team, whose over pursuing tendencies has made the running back screen pass an effective play against them. The Chiefs have been effective all year inside the red zone in large part because this is where Johnson shines the most. The Colts defense on the other hand rank near the bottom of the league in red zone defense in large part because of their inability to stop the running game is magnified inside the 20. Add these two variables together, and it’s hard to imagine the Chiefs not being dominant inside the red zone in this game. Simply put, expect a lot of time consuming drives by the Chiefs that take little risk and keep the Colts offense off the field. Teams have been really successful employing such a game plan against the Colts, and there is no reason that a team that is built for such a game plan will be otherwise.

 

Although there is rarely a lot to like on the defensive side of the ball when betting against the Colts, there are a few things that I like on the Chiefs defense that makes me think it will be hard for the Colts to blow them out. In the past years, the Colts game plan was to score early with aggressive passing plays in hopes to take out the oppositions running game. However, this year, employing this type of game plan has not been successful for the Colts for a variety of reasons. First of all, their offense has not been as potent making it hard for them to establish an early comfortable lead. Secondly, their defense has been so bad, that allowing points early has been nearly impossible to stop. Thirdly, even when they have established early leads, opponents have stayed committed to the running game, allowing them to be effective with their offense throughout the game. This has forced the Colts offense into a more methodical approach that chips away at the field and eats up a lot of clock as well, thus giving them less chances to blow opponents out. This should hold especially true against and Edwards 2 type defense that employs a bend don’t break philosophy that forces teams to have to chip away at the field. Expect the Colts to be committed to the running game in this game, which is a good thing for the seven point barrier to not be broken. When the Colts do elect to pass, they will be forced to use a heavy dose of complimentary receivers, as the Chiefs Cover 2 coupled with two solid corners has made it hard for opponents to go to their go to guys. Law has had a lot of experience and success against Harrison, and with outside help, should limit his production on Saturday. Surtain’s style of play, coupled with the Cover 2 philosophy also leads me to believe that Wayne’s productivity in this game will be limited to a first level passing threat. This will force Manning to have to rely more on his less potent passing options like Clark, who will not be playing 100 percent, and his ailing knee injury will limit his production downfield. Simply put, it is hard to imagine that the Colts offense will not be successful in moving the ball. However, the Chiefs possess fundamental traits on defense which will force the Colts to have to eat up clock, chip away at the field, making them more prone to mistakes, in order to be able to move the ball. This is not ideal for a team that has to win by two possessions to cover the spread.

 

Cons:

Home field advantage is magnified in this game. The Colts have always been a much more potent team inside their dome. Their offensive style is built for the fast track, as it magnifies their assets. The same could be said for their defense, which heavily relies on speed to be effective. However, the intangible effects of their home field advantage often goes unnoticed and has allowed them to go undefeated once again at home. Their offense heavily relies on communication and no huddles, two variables that are a lot easier in a quiet place, while their defense seems to play with a lot more intensity and emotion and home, something that is vital and helps mask their deficiencies. Not only are the Colts much more potent at home, but the Chiefs have always been a much less dangerous team on the road. This year is no different as they have only managed 3 wins all year away from Arrowhead. Playing off surface is also not good for a team in the playoffs. The return of Sanders increases the chances of the Colts improving their biggest weakness. Johnson set the single season carry record last year, making one have to ponder how much he has left in the tank and if he is equipped to carrying 35 plus times. In the past, the Colts have not been a dangerous team to lay a lot of points on, as they could score as easily as any other team, rarely let up, and are a hard team to backdoor cover, as their defense becomes much more effective against a one dimensional passing game. Green has looked horrible of late.

 

Conclusion:

I have no problem betting against the Colts anytime they have to win by two scores to cover, as their run defense is just too bad. Expect Johnson and the Chiefs running game to be effective enough to keep this game close, as it will allow them to put up enough points and limit the chances Manning gets to blow them out. They lack the ideal defense to pull off an upset, but have the ideal defense to prevent a blow out. I will take the points in this showdown.

[Ozymandius]

Against The Spread:

 

Dallas +3 at Sea: They both suck but Seattle REALLY sucks. I think the Cowboys have a better defense AND offense.

 

NYJets +8.5 at NE: Too many points. NE rarely blows out an above average team

 

KC +7 at Indy: Pure superstition pick. An incredible number of events had to line up for KC to make the playoffs. I think Lamar Hunt is a factor here.

 

NYG +7 at Phi: No feel for this game whatsoever. When in doubt, take the points.

[aussiew]

Houston over Buffalo: Why? Because the Run and Shoot is unstoppable in Rich Stadium in January, and if Jerry Glanville is known for one thing, its tactical prowess in the playoffs. Buffalo starts some backup QB and is dead in the water. Houston 35 Bills 3.

 

 

Aaaaaah, the memories.....

[loadofmularkey]

Although I was hoping to receive a two possession spread with betting on the Chiefs, I still think they are coming with some value as expecting the Colts to win by two possessions is a lot to ask for- and it is not rocket science to why this is the case. As long as the Colts possess the worst run defense in the league, they will continue to find it hard to win by comfortable margins of victories, especially against teams that possess potent running games that can magnify their deficiencies, which the Chiefs are considered to have. Expect the Chiefs to establish a running game from the get go. The Chiefs possess what might be the best interior offensive line in football and what might be the best running back in the game in wearing down opposing fronts. The Colts lack size up front, and are extremely vulnerable to be getting worn down. Expect the Chiefs to establish an interior power game early on where they have the clear cut advantage to be able to grind out 4 yards on a consistent basis with an occasional big run. Even with stacked boxes, the Colts have failed miserably in trying to curtail oppositions running games. Although the return of Sanders should improve their run defense, he will more than likely be unable to make the impact most people are giving credit for. Not only is he coming off a long lay off that will hinder his game shape and limit the amount of plays that he will be in the game for, but he is still playing nowhere near 100 percent and won’t be the force that allowed him to be a pro bowler last year. Also, a strong safety can only do so much, as their role is to stop the bleeding a running game, not stop the running game, as they are a second level defender. The Chiefs should also be successful in attacking the Chiefs perimeter with Johnson in order to wear down the Colts edge rushers, making them less of a factor in pass rushing situations. Most importantly, the huge running advantage in which the Chiefs possess will keep Manning off the field and limit the chances the Colts get on offense to blow the Chiefs out. The Chiefs should also employ an ideal passing game plan against the Colts. Expect the running game to soften up the Colts defense, which should allow Green to play within his means, and use more three and five step drops compared to the last three games in which he struggled. With a stacked box, the Colts will find it hard to double up on Gonzalez, which should allow Green’s favorite passing option to find mismatches throughout the game against the Cover 2 is tight end friendly to begin with. Although the Colts pass defense ranks second in the league, that number is very misleading, as they allow quarterbacks to employ a very efficient passing game plan if they are willing to take what is given to them. The Colts are very generous in giving the opposition underneath routes and first level passes that chip away at the field. This is the exact role Green is best at, a role that will also allow him to gain much needed confidence after putting forth three sub par games in a row. Also, expect the short rhythm passes to offset the improving pass rush in which the Colts have been displaying in recent games. Johnson is also a potent receiver coming out of the backfield, which has proven to be a huge asset against this Colts team, whose over pursuing tendencies has made the running back screen pass an effective play against them. The Chiefs have been effective all year inside the red zone in large part because this is where Johnson shines the most. The Colts defense on the other hand rank near the bottom of the league in red zone defense in large part because of their inability to stop the running game is magnified inside the 20. Add these two variables together, and it’s hard to imagine the Chiefs not being dominant inside the red zone in this game. Simply put, expect a lot of time consuming drives by the Chiefs that take little risk and keep the Colts offense off the field. Teams have been really successful employing such a game plan against the Colts, and there is no reason that a team that is built for such a game plan will be otherwise.

 

Although there is rarely a lot to like on the defensive side of the ball when betting against the Colts, there are a few things that I like on the Chiefs defense that makes me think it will be hard for the Colts to blow them out. In the past years, the Colts game plan was to score early with aggressive passing plays in hopes to take out the oppositions running game. However, this year, employing this type of game plan has not been successful for the Colts for a variety of reasons. First of all, their offense has not been as potent making it hard for them to establish an early comfortable lead. Secondly, their defense has been so bad, that allowing points early has been nearly impossible to stop. Thirdly, even when they have established early leads, opponents have stayed committed to the running game, allowing them to be effective with their offense throughout the game. This has forced the Colts offense into a more methodical approach that chips away at the field and eats up a lot of clock as well, thus giving them less chances to blow opponents out. This should hold especially true against and Edwards 2 type defense that employs a bend don’t break philosophy that forces teams to have to chip away at the field. Expect the Colts to be committed to the running game in this game, which is a good thing for the seven point barrier to not be broken. When the Colts do elect to pass, they will be forced to use a heavy dose of complimentary receivers, as the Chiefs Cover 2 coupled with two solid corners has made it hard for opponents to go to their go to guys. Law has had a lot of experience and success against Harrison, and with outside help, should limit his production on Saturday. Surtain’s style of play, coupled with the Cover 2 philosophy also leads me to believe that Wayne’s productivity in this game will be limited to a first level passing threat. This will force Manning to have to rely more on his less potent passing options like Clark, who will not be playing 100 percent, and his ailing knee injury will limit his production downfield. Simply put, it is hard to imagine that the Colts offense will not be successful in moving the ball. However, the Chiefs possess fundamental traits on defense which will force the Colts to have to eat up clock, chip away at the field, making them more prone to mistakes, in order to be able to move the ball. This is not ideal for a team that has to win by two possessions to cover the spread.

 

Cons:

Home field advantage is magnified in this game. The Colts have always been a much more potent team inside their dome. Their offensive style is built for the fast track, as it magnifies their assets. The same could be said for their defense, which heavily relies on speed to be effective. However, the intangible effects of their home field advantage often goes unnoticed and has allowed them to go undefeated once again at home. Their offense heavily relies on communication and no huddles, two variables that are a lot easier in a quiet place, while their defense seems to play with a lot more intensity and emotion and home, something that is vital and helps mask their deficiencies. Not only are the Colts much more potent at home, but the Chiefs have always been a much less dangerous team on the road. This year is no different as they have only managed 3 wins all year away from Arrowhead. Playing off surface is also not good for a team in the playoffs. The return of Sanders increases the chances of the Colts improving their biggest weakness. Johnson set the single season carry record last year, making one have to ponder how much he has left in the tank and if he is equipped to carrying 35 plus times. In the past, the Colts have not been a dangerous team to lay a lot of points on, as they could score as easily as any other team, rarely let up, and are a hard team to backdoor cover, as their defense becomes much more effective against a one dimensional passing game. Green has looked horrible of late.

 

Conclusion:

I have no problem betting against the Colts anytime they have to win by two scores to cover, as their run defense is just too bad. Expect Johnson and the Chiefs running game to be effective enough to keep this game close, as it will allow them to put up enough points and limit the chances Manning gets to blow them out. They lack the ideal defense to pull off an upset, but have the ideal defense to prevent a blow out. I will take the points in this showdown.

 

 

Oh my God, dude.

 

Umm, I'm taking the Colts because even though they can't stop the run they can still play offense. Plus KC sucks on the road.

 

Is that pretty much what you said?

[KD in CA]

LOCK of the Week:

NY Giants over Philadelphia: Why? No logic needed....."Experts" are all over the Eagles now...they are the 'hip pick' now..So now the Giants will play their best game...after all this is the MFL....NY always seems to beat Philly in these kinds of matchups in virtually every sport...why that is I have no idea. Giants 28 Eagles 23

 

I don't agree with this. The Giants are in serious disarray, a team that was blown out several times and is almost embarrased to be in the playoffs at all. There's always a bit of uncertainly in a big rivalry game, but I just can't see the G-men rising to the occassion against a confident Philly team.

 

Seattle over Dallas: Now Tony can spend more time with Carrie. I was fooled by the Cowboys in November. Cinderella Romo: It is almost Midnight. Seattle 31 Dallas 20

No argument here. This might be the lock of the week.

 

Indianapolis over Kansas City: Manning will feast on the KC defense. KC will keep it somewhat close, but you will never get a true sense they can win the game. Indy 38 Chiefs 27

I agree that Manning won't be stopped easily, but Larry Johnon might keep him on the bench.

 

New England over the Jets: Low scoring game on the docket here. I do not see it being close however. Brady will avenge the loss from earlier this year. Pats 24 Jets 10

I don't like the big number but I see the Pats controlling this game from start to finish. They won't lose at home to the Jets twice in two months.

[Beerball]

Mine:

Philly 30-13

Seattle 27-24

Indy--though I cringe 36-33

Jets 27-20

[theNose76]

Houston over Buffalo: Why? Because the Run and Shoot is unstoppable in Rich Stadium in January, and if Jerry Glanville is known for one thing, its tactical prowess in the playoffs. Buffalo starts some backup QB and is dead in the water. Houston 35 Bills 3.

Great reference, just have to correct that Houston's coach was Jack Pardee at the time (watched this game on DVD last month). A few other notables from the Oilers were OC Kevin Killdrive, young MLB Eddie Robinson, and CB Jerry Gray. IIRC the DC, forgot who it was but don't think it was Buddy Ryan, was fired the next day.

 

Picks:

Chiefs +7 - but Indy will win because of KC's lack of explosiveness

Cowboys +3 - as badly as Romo and co. are playing Seattle is absolutely decimated

Jets +8.5 - Pats win, Jets score a TD at the end to come within 7

Eagles -6.5 - Giants are just horrible, sure the Eagles D has spent all week watching tape of Tiki's game on Saturday, so they should limit him, keep in mind how terrible Eli was last year in the playoffs at home, now he needs to go into the Linc, no way

[Rico]

No big $$$ this week, these games suck for betting:

Dallas +3 at Sea: Meh... this game's a big dud for me unless Drew gets in there.

 

NYJets +8.5 at NE: I agree, too many points for the Jets.

 

Phi -7 vs. NYG: Hate to say it, but I'd rather have Jeff Garcia in a big game than DMac and I'd sure as hell rather have him than EGump.

 

Indy-7 vs. KC: It's true that PGump is the reigning king of big-game chokers, and Dungy isn't far behind him... but Herm Edwards is an up-and-comer in this category. Anywho, I hope & pray that Indy wins big & looks good, because that will set up the LOCK of the year, as the Cowtown Colts return back to Baltimore for a savage beatdown of epic proportions!

[Dwight Drane]

HERMAN EDWARDS=Loses his mind during playoff games. You will be looking at your TV set in awe when he makes a decision that kills any chance KC has. Peyton has no pressure on him since everyone assumes he is a choke job in the playoffs.

 

Indy 33 KC 16

 

Seattle and Dallas is a sad state of affairs. I was impressed with the Dallas D enough to think they will somehow pull it out. I hope Bledsoe gets a chance, but Parcells is too proud a guy to put him back in there.

 

Dal 20 Sea 17

 

Philly has been playing well, and NY hates Coughlin, but 7 points is a lot for a team that has 2 starting RBs.

 

Phi 23 NYG 20

 

Billy Belichek can get 22 guys from this board together and come within a TD of the Jets. He is the man, as much as I hate to admit it. He probably gets 2 hours of sleep a night this time of year.

 

NE 30 NYJ 13

 

 

Remember.....Herm Edwards. That is all I am sure of.

[Alaska Darin]

My upset of the week is KC over Indy. In fact, if the seeding works out, I can see KC as the cindarella in the conference championship, losing to the next Super Bowl champs (the Pats).

I don't see them winning 3 road games against Indy, SD, then either Baltimore or New England. That'll be tough sledding - made tougher by the fact that Herm Edwards is their coach.

[Dr. K]

My picks:

 

LOCK of the Week:

 

NY Giants over Philadelphia: Why? No logic needed....."Experts" are all over the Eagles now...they are the 'hip pick' now..So now the Giants will play their best game...after all this is the MFL....NY always seems to beat Philly in these kinds of matchups in virtually every sport...why that is I have no idea. Giants 28 Eagles 23

Seattle over Dallas: Now Tony can spend more time with Carrie. I was fooled by the Cowboys in November. Cinderella Romo: It is almost Midnight. Seattle 31 Dallas 20

 

Indianapolis over Kansas City: Manning will feast on the KC defense. KC will keep it somewhat close, but you will never get a true sense they can win the game. Indy 38 Chiefs 27

 

New England over the Jets: Low scoring game on the docket here. I do not see it being close however. Brady will avenge the loss from earlier this year. Pats 24 Jets 10

 

What are your picks?

 

I like all of your picks. I would also call the Patriots over the Jet a lock. Plus, I give the Patriots the best chance to come out of the AFC for the Super Bowl, the Ravens second, the Chargers third, the Colts fourth.

[Mikie2times]

KC beats Colts- Law and Surtain match up well enough for Larry Johnson to do them in.

[Dwight Drane]

KC beats Colts- Law and Surtain match up well enough for Larry Johnson to do them in.

 

In 2001

[MarkyMannn]

Houston over Buffalo: Why? Because the Run and Shoot is unstoppable in Rich Stadium in January, and if Jerry Glanville is known for one thing, its tactical prowess in the playoffs. Buffalo starts some backup QB and is dead in the water. Houston 35 Bills 3.

 

I don't know, I think we'll be able to come back.

 

Don't see no fat lady singing yet