NFL Divisional Round Picks: Eagles, Bears, Colts and Pats to Advance

NFC DIVISIONAL ROUND:

(3) Eagles at (2) Saints

The Eagles are the hottest team in the NFC. They played well enough to beat an underachieving Giants team 23-20. I have to mention the fact that the Eagles were stunned when John Carney buried a field goal at the end of regulation to give the Saints the victory 27-24 in the regular season. That victory even came with Donovan McNabb at quarterback for the Eagles. I think the Eagles are playing even better this year and after a schedule filled with close losses. This team has been in nearly every game. They are peaking at the right time. I think the Eagles will win this game behind yet another impressive performance from Jeff Garcia.    EAGLES 27, SAINTS 20

(4) Seahawks at (1) Bears

This interesting matchup is between the best team in the NFC from last year and the best team from the NFC this year. The Seahawks made it through the season with a lot of injuries and were able to sneak themselves into the playoffs by winning the miserable NFC West. The Bears have played dominant defense throughout the season. The Bears beat Seattle 37-6 in Week 4 of the season, but that victory came against the Shaun Alexander-less Seahawks.  I think their offense will do more than enough, and I see the Bears breaking this one open.    BEARS 27, SEAHAWKS 10

AFC DIVISIONAL ROUND:

(3) Colts at (2) Ravens

Well, here we have a battle between a great Colts offense and a great Ravens defense. Usually defense wins championships, but in this case I think the Colts are a better overall team. The Colts defense will shut down the poor Ravens offense la last week s dominance over a solid Chiefs offense. I like the Colts to take this game in convincing fashion. COLTS 24, RAVENS 6

(4) Patriots at (1) Chargers

This is the game of the week: the best team in the NFL takes on the Patriots dynasty. The Chargers have an amazing all-around team while the Patriots have the experience and Tom Brady leading the charge. I think this game is going to come down to two teams that are very equal in talent. The Pats will contain LaDainian Tomlinson and block Shawne Merriman as well as anyone can. New England s experience and coaching send Marty Ball and the Chargers to another disappointing early exit in a barn-burner. PATRIOTS 30, CHARGERS 23

NFC CHAMPIONSHIP:

AFC CHAMPIONSHIP:

RECORD:

1-3 overall; 3-1 versus spread.

That will do it for me for this week.  Check back next week for my Conference Championship Weekend picks.