NFL Playoff Schedule 2012: Predicting Scintillating Super Bowl Matchup

It's time for notions, predictions and gut feelings to take over as we head into a special weekend where the Super Bowl matchup will be set. 

The head still spins from a set of games that saw the nearly unbeatable Packers get thrashed and Drew Brees' Saints get silenced. 

It's time to forget what we thought we knew about the state of the NFL. The favorites coming into the weekend will be sent packing. That is just how this Super Bowl will be assembled—with pieces of good fortune and luck found on a field away from home. 

Here is a breakdown of the last two remaining games before the one that truly matters.  

Baltimore Ravens at New England Patriots: Sunday, 3:00 p.m. ET CBS

The Ravens have the best defense around but they will face a tough battle against Tom Brady, who is 9-2 at home in the playoffs. 

The question is, do you still value defense to trump a nasty offensive attack? These teams couldn't be any more different in what they do well. However, I still think the Ravens have what it takes to slow down the Patriots' tight ends. 

It's easy to call the Ravens offense unimaginative and stagnant at times, but the Patriots defense has a way of making lesser attacks look superb. Joe Flacco will get enough production to allow the run to really hurt New England. 

Ravens 27, Patriots 24  

New York Giants at San Francisco 49ers: Sunday, 6:30 ET FOX 

This all hinges on what Giants defense will show up on Sunday. The Giants can match wits with just about any offense when they are ready, willing and able. 

After a Packers beatdown, I am convinced that the postseason magic rests with the Giants. New York is a far different team than when they lost to the 49ers on November 13th. 

The Giants went on their usual season slide that had head coach Tom Coughlin on the hot seat. However, in the past few weeks, this team has begun playing like the talented team we knew they were. Eli Manning is far underrated and so is his pass protection that has been far better in the last few games. 

The defense and offensive line will be just as good on Sunday and that will be all the difference. 

Giants 24, 49ers 19

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