AFC Championship Game 2015: Odds, Viewing Info, Prediction for Colts vs Patriots

Oh, what a wild weekend it was in the NFL playoffs.

Tom Brady led the New England Patriots down the field for his eighth game-winning drive in the playoffs. And last but certainly not least, Andrew Luck stole the torch from his predecessor in the lone upset win of the divisional round.

What that leaves us with is a massive matchup between a young gun and a three-time Super Bowl champion. Luck has never knocked off Brady, but his recent tear has given plenty of reason for optimism in Indianapolis.

Now, with the entire championship weekend set, here's a look at the odds, schedule and players to watch in the AFC Championship Game.

AFC Championship Information

Where: Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachussetts

When: Sunday, Jan. 18 at 6:40 p.m. ET

TV: CBS

Live Stream: CBSSports.com

Spread: Patriots -7

Over/Under: 53.5

Odds via OddsShark.com.

Prediction

Does it get any better than the New England Patriots vs. Indianapolis Colts? Well, maybe the old regime for Indy made it more special. But the simple fact that both teams continue to find success despite myriad changes makes the rivalry special.

Much like Peyton Manning in the early days, Luck has struggled against Brady in the first several matchups. The last time the two quarterbacks met in the playoffs, the Patriots dismantled Luck and the Colts to the tune of a 43-22 win.

In fact, that was the closest game between the two franchises since Luck took over, via ESPN Stats & Info:

Not only has Brady played brilliantly down the stretch, but he's also remained remarkably consistent in the playoffs. While he wasn't perfect against the Ravens, he did lead the Pats to a game-winning drive when the pressure was on.

Brady's pass fell into the hands of Brandon LaFell, who has been a breakout star all season for the Patriots. LaFell spoke about the perfect laser from Brady following the game, per Phil Perry of CSN New England:

"

Tom was at the line preaching for something long. I'm thinking he's gonna change the play, and I'm like, 'No, man! Let me go out there and work it.' He had faith in me. … [The window] was real tight. The guy was grabbing my arm. It was just a perfect throw. All I had to do was stick my arm out.

"

LaFell isn't the only weapon for Brady with Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman also helping carry a large portion of the load. Brady also isn't the only excellent passer, as he spoke about Edelman's excellent trick play during the divisional round, via the Patriots' official account:

Thanks to a defense that is able to shut down nearly any offense down the stretch and the reliability of Brady in the clutch, New England will keep rolling into the Super Bowl.

Prediction: Patriots 31, Colts 24

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