NFL Playoff Preview

Jason Braverman by Contributor Written on December 17, 2008
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Here we go, the start of Week 16 is tomorrow, and yet only four teams have clinched, leaving eight more spots up for grabs.

This is what I see playing out:

AFC

1. Steelers (13-3)—A game against the Titans deciding home field, and then hosting the Brownies. I like them to win both.

2. Titans (12-4)—I know it's hard to believe they'll end on a three-game losing streak, but looking at their schedule, it's hard to believe otherwise: Pitt. at Ind.

3. Jets (11-5)—Maybe this is just a hopeful pick, maybe not, but either way, a game against Seattle is always easy, and assuming Miami wins against the Chiefs, would eliminate the Pats. It would all come down to a Dolphins-Jets game at the Meadowlands, but I like the guys in green.

4. Broncos (9-7)—If they lose this week to the Bills, I think there's a very good chance they blow this huge lead and lose to the Chargers in Week 17. However, I don't see them losing to the Bills

5. Colts (12-4)—Really, could anyone else take this spot?

6. Ravens (11-5)—Tough game coming up on Saturday. I was tempted to pick the Pats, but I think the Steelers are better than the Cowboys. If the Ravens could nearly beat Pitt, they should beat Dallas. Then, Jacksonville in Week 17.

NFC

1. Panthers (12-4)—Beat the G-Men, then lose in a meaningless game to NO.

Why do I think this? The Giants are playing terribly right now, and I see them playing a close game. Definitely one possession, but the Panthers coming out on top. Then, the Panthers resting their players, will lose to the Saints.

2. Giants (12-4)—I already explained the Carolina game. As for Week 17, they'll come out pumped trying to end a three-game losing streak, beating the Tavaris Jackson-led Vikings.

3. Vikings (10-6)—They should beat Atlanta. Matt Ryan hasn't had to be clutch yet.

4. Cardinals (9-7)—They've virtually clinched this spot, unless they beat the Pats and the Falcons beat the Vikings. I don't see both happening.

5. Bucs (11-5)—Here's where it starts to get interesting. Still, San Diego and Oakland should treat them pretty nicely.

6. Cowboys (10-6 and a better conference record than Atlanta)—They could lose both, or just as easily, win both.

What I see? A loss to Baltimore, then a win over Philly. Atlanta should be able to handle the Rams in Week 17, but not before a loss to the Vikings.

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written on December 17, 2008 Preview/Prediction

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