NFL Playoff Predictions: 3 Defenses Sure to Wreak Havoc in January

While offenses will probably continue to dominate the NFL, defenses often come through for the most successful playoff teams. 

Although Aaron Rodgers' offense is what everyone remembers about the Green Bay Packers' Super Bowl triumph last season, remember how fantastic their defense played during their run. 

They intercepted a whopping eight passes during the playoffs and recovered three fumbles. 

Let's look at which defensive units will wreak havoc in January. 

Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens defensive unit is, once again, one of the best in the NFL. 

They allow a second-best 91.8 yards on the ground per contest, so any team that tries to establish their running game has to make a tweak to their game plan. 

The secondary isn't bad, either. 

They allow an extremely respectable 193.9 yards through the air each time out. 

While we've witnessed a few teams, most recently the Chargers, have their way with Baltimore's defense, it is still a group of intimidating guys that prides themselves on ferociousness and discipline. 

The Ravens will look to win with Ray Rice running and defense in this postseason. 

San Francisco 49ers

What makes a great defense? 

• A terrorizing defensive line that can halt the run and get after the pass-rusher.
• A stout linebacking corp that can get from sideline-to-sideline, get off blocks and play reasonably in coverage.
• A secondary that can be successful in man coverage or zone that creates turnovers. 

Think the 49ers have a great defense? 

I do. 

Justin Smith could easily win the Defensive Player of the Year due to the ridiculous amount of time he's spent in opponents' backfields this season and Aldon Smith's 14 sacks and two forced fumbles could lead to a Rookie of the Year trophy.

We know about Patrick Willis, and second-year linebacker NaVorro Bowman is having a breakout season. 

The defensive backfield has intercepted 21 passes this season and has talent both at corner and safety. 

Like the Ravens, they'll win this January with their running game and stingy defense. 

Pittsburgh Steelers

A list about the best playoff defenses cannot be complete without mentioning the Pittsburgh Steelers. 

They are loaded with stars on the defensive side of the ball, have a beefy interior line and assailing edge rushers who can really get after the quarterback.

However, Troy Polamalu is the X-factor. 

He makes the biggest plays in the most critical moments, and is a phenomenal run stuffer.

No matter what stadium they're in, the Steelers defense will come to play. 

You can count on that.