NFL Division Round Playoff Predictions: Saturday Games

Tim Nguyen by Correspondent Written on January 10, 2009
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The Cardinals have a legit offense led by another old man, Kurt Warner. His targets, however, are still young and spry. Larry Fitzgerald leads the receiving core, but his workload might be increased further with the questionable status of Anquan Boldin playing in the game.

Three receivers on the Cards have contributed 1000 yards to their offensive cause, but come tomorrow night, they will be looking to prove that they are not a one dimensional football team.

The Panthers, on the other hand, have it made. Led by oft-injured quarterback Jake Delhomme, Carolina hopes to capitalize on a balanced offensive attack which consists of Steve Smith and Muhsin Muhammad at wideout, and DeAngelo Williams along with rookie Jonathan Stewart at the back positions.

With the return of several injured linemen, the Panthers look to not only protect Delhomme, but also open gaping holes for either Williams or Stewart to run wild.

Edge: Panthers.

 

Defense

The Panthers’ pass defense has been effective over the past few weeks, and look for them to step up against a pass heavy Cardinals team. They can certainly stop the Cards weak run offense, but the question is whether they will able to sack quick release quarterback Kurt Warner.

The Cards’ defense showed up to play last week, seemingly for the first time since the midway point in the season. They dominated Michael Turner, and seemingly have an answer for any star running back that comes their way.

Their question will be whether their rookie corner Rodgers-Cromartie will be able to hang on to either Muhammad or Smith.

Edge: Panthers.

 

Special Teams:

Neil Rackers vs. John Kasay. Rackers looked completely off last week, as he almost missed a few kicks while playing in a dome at home. So, strangely enough, I doubt that he will do extremely well after a cross country trip to freezing cold North Carolina. J.J. Arrington will be counted on throughout the night to provide Kurt Warner with good field position.

Edge: Even.

 

Coaching

John Fox vs. Ken Whisenhunt. Fox is definitely more experience, so he wins this battle.

Edge: Panthers.

 

Tim’s Question

How will Arizona attempt to stop this insanely good Carolina offense?

 

Tim’s Call

Carolina Panthers by 14.

Vote Now! - Author Poll

Which team has the most dominant defense?

  • Baltimore Ravens.
  • Tennessee Titans.
  • Pittsburgh Steelers.
  • New York Giants.
vote to see results
Results - Author Poll

Which team has the most dominant defense?

  • Baltimore Ravens.

    63.6%
  • Tennessee Titans.

    9.1%
  • Pittsburgh Steelers.

    27.3%
  • New York Giants.

    0.0%
  • Total votes: 11
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written on January 10, 2009 Preview/Prediction

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