Four Identities

Interesting take right HERE on the perceptions of whom CBS is rooting for. Any conspiracy theorists will find this all-too-juicy. All this is juicer.

While there may be different names, jersey numbers, or unsung heroes who rise to acclaim, here are the four names the media is immediately prepared to sell Super Bowl week.

Indianapolis: Peyton Manning (QB)
NY Jets: Rex Ryan (Head Coach)
New Orleans: Drew Brees (QB)
Minnesota: Adrian...oh who am I kidding? Brett Favre (QB)

However, here are the four names you might want to be singing instead. For their difference-making abilities are criminally unsung.

Indianapolis Colts

Jeff Saturday, despite the juxtaposition of this picture, is an all-too-forgotten staple in the decade-long run of the Colts. Calling out formations and MIKES, even before King Peyton at times, is just a part of the reason why he anchors this underrated offensive line to continued success. With a guy named Pouha lining up in front of him, Saturday won't make the mistake of breathing easy that Kris Jenkins isn't lining up this weekend. Jets fans (ahem) know that smacking around Peyton will only happen if his veteran center fails to keep things in order on the offensive line.

New York Jets

Alan Faneca was one of the biggest free agent fishes in the 2008 summer class. While 30-year old Pittsburgh Steelers who play the offensive line don't get much acclaim, he's perhaps the best guard the game has seen this decade. He's surrounded by Pro Bowlers and All Pros named Ferguson and Mangold, who owe a lot to Faneca for their continued steady play and recent "offensive line" stardom. Sometimes landing the best free agent, not just the biggest name, is the coup a GM needs to build and reputation and, of course, a winning football team.

New Orleans Saints

You want to beat quarterbacks like Brett Favre, Peyton Manning, and even (gasp) Mark Sanchez...put constant pressure on them. Hit them in the mouth - with or without the football - and make them think twice about standing tall in the pocket. Take their trusted offensive lineman and turn him into a giant question mark that annoys the quarterback like no other that Sunday afternoon. While the name Will Smith immediately conjures up anything but a 13-sack defensive end; nevertheless, this man will need to have a personal meeting (or 3) with Favre on Sunday, in order to let the aggressive Saint secondary make enough plays to allow their own QB enough possessions to put up the points necessary to secure the franchise's first ever Super Bowl appearance. What a run-on sentence that was!

Minnesota Vikings

We'll try to ignore that Favre-guy. (Trust me, it won't be too hard.) I'll stay away from Sidney Rice's emergence, Percy Harvin's migraines, and McKinnie memories triggering the Love Boat theme song. The Vikings, long before the 40-year old Golden Boy (dang!) and A.D. (or should it be A.P.) racked up double-digit touchdowns with relative ease, had a suffocating run defense and two interior lineman NOBODY wanted to see. They're All Pro-talent standing right next to each other. Scary, huh? Good thing the Saints rush to the outside quite a bit. Or is it? Eventually, you gotta test these guys. Unfortunately for you, Kevin and Pat Williams don't like losing the battle in the middle of the interior line.

A few more names are sure to pop up. I didn't even mention Revis Island...until now.

What names do you think will be mentioned more often than most might expect???

NSFW Content: F*** the Police

Attica!!!

Radio silence for several weeks and suddenly, after a Jet win (typical), I can't shutup suddenly, with 3 posts in less than 20 (not even 24!) hours.

Via the JetsBlog via Deadspin (worst guest hosts for the Dan Patrick Show ever)...

This overenthusiastic Jets fans was hauled out of Qualcomm Stadium yesterday for ...? We're not exactly sure, but when even the Chargers fans are defending his incessant hooting, you know something's fishy.

There is obviously something missing from this video, as we arrive in the middle of about half dozen security/police dudes trying to wrangle this guy to the ground. And he's not exactly being cooperative. But most of the fans around him don't seem happy to see him go. The police are heckled by what seems to be Charger fans and, at the end, one guy in a Chargers jersey appears to trade contact info with Jet Dude's female friend. Either to serve as a character witness or comfort her in her time of need, we may never know.

If you want a REAL laugh, check out the YouTube comments. It gets to a point where it sounds like the scene outside the courtroom in A Time to Kill. 90s flashback!!! 00s flashback may be better, though.

Side note: The best comment I saw from a Charger fan on a message board:
"They arrested the wrong guy! Kaeding was still on the field."

The "old" Nate Kaeding, sans the attitude.
Credit: BleacherReport.com

For a closing shot, isn't it funny how Mike Vamderjagt was Nate Kaeding 5 years ago. Regular season percentages, no matter how high, mean D*CK when you're talking playoffs.

InClement Weather: NFL Predictions???

Go into every season assuming nothing, for the only certainty in the modern-day NFL is year-to-year volatility.

Rather sound, yet sensible words from Yahoo! Sports' Michael Silver.

Consider that only two division winners from 2007 repeated in ’08, and seven of the 12 playoff teams (including five of six in the NFC) were flushed. That wasn’t an aberration, either – the average annual postseason turnover rate over the past decade is 6.4 out of 12, with a minimum of five and a high of eight (in 2003).

With that in mind, predicting NFL playoff teams - with less than week until the opener - seems nearly impossible.

Here are three "experts". I'll throw out my own selections later this week, but I doubt I'll have the gall Silver (apparently) has.

Mario Williams and the Texans are a popular playoff pick.
Not so fast.
Credit: SportsUnion.com

Michael Silver, Yahoo! Sports
AFC East = New England
AFC Central = Pittsburgh Steelers
AFC South = Tennessee Titans
AFC West = Kansas City Chiefs (that isn't a typo)
AFC Wild Cards = Houston Texans and Cincinnati Bengals

NFC East = Dallas Cowboys
NFC Central = Green Bay Packers
NFC South = New Orleans Saints
NFC West = Arizona Cardinals
NFC Wild Cards = Washington Redskins & San Francisco 49ers

Notable Notes: Indianapolis, New York (Giants), Minnesota, Carolina, Philly, Chicago, San Diego, and Baltimore are MISSING from the playoff picture.

Is Sanchez the next rookie QB to make a run into the playoffs?
I am not predicting it...
Credit: NJ.com

Don Banks, CNNSI.com
AFC East = New England
AFC Central = Baltimore Ravens
AFC South = Tennessee Titans
AFC West = San Diego Chargers
AFC Wild Cards = New York Jets & Pittsburgh Steelers

NFC East = NY Giants
NFC Central = Green Bay Packers
NFC South = New Orleans Saints
NFC West = Seattle Seahawks
NFC Wild Cards = Dallas Cowboys & Chicago Bears

Notable Notes: Indianapolis, Philly, Chicago, Carolina, and Minnesota are MISSING from the playoff picture.

Romo or Tuck: who is more likely to be playoff bound?
Or is neither???
Credit: FoxSports.com

Gene Wojciechowski, ESPN.com
AFC East = New England
AFC Central = Pittsburgh Steelers
AFC South = Jacksonville Jaguars
AFC West = San Diego Chargers
AFC Wild Cards = Baltimore Ravens & Indianapolis Colts

NFC East = NY Giants
NFC Central = Minnesota Vikings
NFC South = New Orleans Saints
NFC West = Seattle Seahawks
NFC Wild Cards = Philadelphia Eagles & Chicago Bears

Notable Notes: Arizona, Dallas, Carolina are only minor surprises...as we see a LOT of chalk.

See you later in the week with my own predictions.
I expect a Redskin-related comment or two...

PHSports Super Bowl XLIII Live Streaming…

Do we finally have DRAMA???? YES.
But this isn't one of the best Super Bowls ever. One of the best 4th quarters? YOU BETTER BELIEVE IT.

Madden: The gap between winning and losing is widest in sports.
Finally, succinct words.

Very below average first 3 quarters. Crappy commercials, too.
However, the ending was memorable to say the least.
Mike Tomlin can stand proud. He delivered Pittsburgh its NFL-record 6th Super Bowl.
Credit: Yahoo! Sports

...Madden Moment of the Night...
Did anyone else notice Madden's idiotic comment on James Harrison's play?
"If you make that nice of a play and run all the way downfield...you deserve a touchdown."
It's a nice thought, for an idiot. You don't deserve anything in professional sports. You either earn it or fall short. This isn't the "nice effort" league. It's the NFL. So Mr. Madden, stick your fat foot in your fatter mouth after that comment. While Harrison was in for the score, if he wasn't...he doesn't deserve anything.

10:15 p.m. -- 15 4th Quarter Thoughts
1) I refuse to believe one team is holding this much more than another. Then after you see the replays, you see Arizona is holding these Pittsburgh 3-4 ends. 91 yards in penalties on the Cards. Never a ticket towards anything but a deficit - 13 points now - in a Super Bowl.
2) Why is Ben Graham punting for this team, with a sore hamstring no less? I 'm serious folks, he SUCKS. So what if he can hold snaps. He can't punt!!!
3) I'm gonna say it: Arizona needs a lucky defensive TD or they have 0% chance. Not even .01%.
4) I have never seen so many personal fouls. Half of them are garbage too. Steelers fans could care less. I don't blame them.
5) Darnell Dockett willed himself to that sack. Great play. You know Big Ben expected to escape that. Who can blame him, either? Arizona needs a fluke play, perhaps a CB downfield to fall or become distracted by some local fanfare. I'd love to see Pittsburgh with the ball and a 20-14 game. I need SOME drama!!!
6) Even when the Steelers give up a downfield pass, they lay out the Cardinal wideout. No huddle time. Let's see if Warner forces something. Nice to see you again - even for only 6 yards - Mr. Fitzgerald.
7) JJ Arrington exposes the middle of the field. With the safeties 30-yards off, where has this been before? Warner can't screw up again.
8) 3rd and goal at the 1 for Arizona. Interesting...
9) Ike Taylor played that well. However, "Swagger" lost out to Fitzgerald at the highest point. What a catch. You couldn't even dream of challenging it, too. WOW. (I'm rooting for a losing cause in Arizona. Sue me.)
10) We just might have a ball game. Dockett vying for underdog MVP honors. Then again, he might have to just enjoy a victory as the offense will need a touchdown to win. At least we finally have some drama again. Will the no huddle return? How about the Pittsburgh zone?
11) There's the stat. Basically, the Steelers don't lose with 11+-point leads. 152-1-1 (including postseason) is a daunting number.
12) Al Michaels just burned Ike Taylor. "Not swagging now". I just gained newfound respect for him. Mike Tomlin looks nervous...
13) I honestly thought I'd be chewing on my words after the Fitzgerald touchdown. What an amazing playcall. Troy Polamalu doesn't deserve this ring. Not after today's horrific performance.
14) Santonio Holmes has overcome the marajuana arrest, I suppose. He should be MVP. Harrison is a punk and a thug for what he did on that special teams play. How was he not ejected? I know! The refs have no stones.
15) Great 4th quarter. Much like 1999. Kurt Warner and Larry Fitzgerald needed a stop on defense. It just wasn't meant to be. Pittsburgh earned it. No need to challenge the Warner fumble. 100%. Although I do wonder if a Favre, Ben, Brady, or Manning had it happen...would a review had come?

9:00 p.m. -- 10 3rd Quarter Thoughts
1) Edgerrin James running well early on in the 3rd quarter. Haley and Wisenhunt know that forcing something downfield won't work against this defense. Question is: will a deep ball to Fitzgerald be available for Warner and company. Is Anquan Boldin hurt again? Two words: uh oh.
2) You look at Pittsburgh's roster and you see just how well they draft; especially on the defensive side of the ball. Big stop by Pittsburgh on Warner and Harrison ends up with another turnover. Oh goodie. Fortunately, the refs made the right call (per review). Maybe we do need review. Why doesn't Arizona get 2 new challenges?
3) Pittsburgh is NOT winning this game because of the refs. However, I have two issues:
A) The facemask on Holmes would've been a 5-yarder; if the NFL kept that penalty and made the refs make judgment calls on facemask penalties.
B) Dansby's late hit wasn't a personal foul.
4) Adrian Wilson's personal foul was more idiotic than the woman screaming in the careerbuilders.com commercial. Guess which site I'll never recommend?
5) 20-7 score. How different might this game have been if it was 10-10 at the half? Not as different as you might think (I think).
6) JJ Arrington has been horrific returning kicks. Why isn't Breaston back there? Man, these commercials are horrific. Although I do want to see GI Joe and Transformers 2. Then again, I don't need a commercial for that either.
7) Too many underneath routes for the Cardinals. I can't remember a throw downfield outside of Boldin's. Eventually, they're going to have to take a chance with Fitzgerald. Polamalu, zone, or whatever withstanding.
8) Anquan Boldin looks disinterested. It's odd because I've always seen him as one of the more emotional players - even on a notoriously poor team - in the NFL. It's a real shame.
9) Through 3 quarters, Warner has attempted 1 - count 'em 1 - pass past 10 yards downfield. Not good.
10) 3 boring quarters. I don't see a 1999-like 4th quarter. We were spoiled last year. Don't let a short-term memory fool you. Another crappy Super Bowl.

7:45 p.m.-- 15 2nd Quarter Thoughts
1) Sum says it best again: "When did Larry Fitzgerald start wearing #89? Leonard Pope with an AMAZING catch. Maybe he should "bailout" our economy? Ha! No. No...
2) Using Edge in the pass game is a brilliant check-down. Warner tripping yet again. Not surprising. Bad drop by Edge on 3rd and 22 for field position.
3) Arizona's D needs to get a Steeler punt. It's not even about forcing a turnover or making a huge sack. Wrap up and don't give Big Ben unlimited time. Willie Parker is making the first guy miss, 5 yards in the backfield often, with relative ease (aka automatically). Still waiting for that holding call on the Stillers.
4) I am sick to my stomach that the Jets could've taken DRC instead of Gholston with the 6th pick. SICK!
5) Whadu know? Pittsburgh's gonna punt. Say it with me now. [Insert Chappelle's Show random memory: "Calvin's Got a Job!"]
6) Steve Breaston showed up today. He knew he'd have a lot available and he's ready. I hate to plug Michigan football these days, but Breaston played in plenty of big games. No blocks in the back either. Props to Stevie.
7) Penalties resulting from blitzes causes Cardinal penalties. OC Todd Haley needs to take that into account on rollout plays. 3rd time the Cardinals have had a down and 20+. First sack of the game ensues. LaMarr Woodley arrives...another Wolverine. 5th sack in the postseason. Impressive to say the least.
8) Missing: Larry Fitzgerald.
9) These commercials S-U-C-K. Fortunately, the game appears to be getting better.
10) Ben Graham sucks. I'll say it now and forever. Worst punter in Super Bowl history. Don't let Michael Adams' strong coverage fool you. The guy NEVER pins people inside the 10. EVER!
11) Quite the year for U of R (University of Richmond) football. First a national championship (FCS) and Tim Hightower has done the rest. You think the residents of "Swagger" liked Ike Taylor getting his ankles broken so badly on 3rd and long?
12) Welcome to the Super Bowl Larry Fitzgerald. Let's see if Warner can avoid going Sam Bradford in the redzone. Clever, right? Boldin takes some NASTY hits. I love the guy. Risky call to get that 1st down at the 2. Better be careful with those timesouts Kenny. (Have they mentioned Russ Grimm yet?)
13) James Harrison might've just won a MVP award with that run back. W-O-W. That may suck the Cardinals dry. That is one of the worst mistakes by a QB in Super Bowl history. Kurt Warner will be blamed if the Cardinals lose the Super Bowl. And he should. He should.
14) Longest play in Super Bowl history. And you know what? It ended this game. I guaran-damn-tee.
15) Don't worry, there won't be 45 3rd quarter thoughts. Do the math.


7:05 pm -- 5 1st Quarter Thoughts [Pittsburgh leads 3-0, driving for 10-0.]
1) Great challenge by Wisenhunt; nevertheless, I HATED him deferring to the second half. You might be getting the ball down 17-0 if Pittsburgh has early momentum.
2) Sum said it best: "House would be pissed with Tomlin kicking a field goal from 1-foot yard line."
3) 5 offensive plays in the 1st quarter for the Cardinals. If you told any of us that, we'd have guessed the score was worse than 10-0. Their first possession in the second quarter better be steady.
4) Heath Miller is exposing the Cardinal LBs and secondary. Not good.
5) Polamalu was quite quiet. That'll change. Especially if Breaston continues being open. He'll take a shot or two if Fitz and Boldin continue to struggle to be Warner's 1st option.

Note: I always have believed - and have plenty of evidence - that Pittsburgh gets away with more holds than any team in the NFL. Just watch for it. Really try and watch.

See you after the 1st quarter, my friends.

6:15 p.m. -- 10 Thoughts: Pre-Game Analysis
1) Nobody is prouder of Bob Costas than Bob Costas. I still cringe when I think
of him saying in the NBA Finals, “This could be the last time Michael Jordan (insert verb) on a basketball court. 2) It sickens me how much I’ve enjoyed seeing Rodney Harrison during pre-game coverage. He was extremely classy when dealing with the David Tyree-catch – which has to haunt his nightmares – and very succinct behind the microphone.
3) It’s brutal to watch Matt Millen speak so profoundly and not forget how much of an absolute failure his way-too-long tenure in Detroit was.
4) Brenda Warner still scares me a little.
5) Mike Holmgren picked against the Steelers. Shocker.
6) National Anthem = meh. Unless it’s Whitney Houston bellowing it out in 1990 or Ray Charles singing “America, the Beautiful”, these are a dime a dozen for me. Sorry. Hudson did well, but the delay on the PA made it seem like she wasn't singing live.
7) Cris Collinsworth called Kurt Warner the best football player on the field. Troy Polamalu – my MVP pick – may have an argument tonight.
8) Al Michaels has traded in his hair piece of the past few years for a set of hair plugs. Either way, he and Madden both look like train wrecks in the booth. I really miss the Summerall/Madden booths of the earlier and mid-90s on CBS & FOX.
9) I love Springsteen, but the Halftime Show is for people over 40. They might as well give women – and some men – what they want and have Neil Diamond up there next year. Especially if the Panthers end up Super Bowl-bound.
10) Commercials. I love how they have been taken over as the “real thing to watch” by women. Oh women, we love you. First, it was being able to cook for us on the big day and now it’s the commercials. Just admit you just want to be around us lazy, balding, fatties during the top sporting event of the year. Admit it.

5:45 p.m.
Check in throughout the game for PHSports analysis - mainly from Clement's mouth - on Super Bowl XLIII.

We'll have quotes, referee call-outs, play-by-play analysis, and other random fanfare you might be able to live without, but know you're better off enjoying L-I-V-E.

See you shortly after kickoff...

***Check out the poll on the top right of the page NOW. Call your shot with the MVP for tonight's big game. Good luck.****

5 NFL Questions: Super Bowl Sunday

Okay, so it's gonna be more like "15 Questions".
What we need from YOU ALL is some answers, before the opening kickoff (if you dare).

***Poll Results***
"Who Will Win the Super Bowl"
Steelers edge the Cardinals 145 votes to 126 (46% to 40%).
For you political junkies, that means there wasn't a plurality.
Why? Because 41 votes came in from people who "Didn't Care".
How many of those were Pay, though?

Next poll is up: Super Bowl MVP.
You have the guys to call it now?
Or before its awarded?

Feel free to check out the following too:
Previews and Pre-Game Analysis
Final Score and MVP Predictions/Projections
Madden Simulation [Super Records SHATTERED!!!]

Checking the "tale of the tape" the average PHSports projection comes out to 27-21 Pittsburgh.
Think you can do better??? Comment and let the record stand!!!
Credit: SportsWarehouse.com

5 "Super" Super Bowl Questions:
1) What are the respective health and psychological statuses of Cardinal WR Anquan Boldin and Steeler WR Hines Ward?
2) Which QB is more pivotal towards their team winning Super Bowl XLIII (and their second Super Bowl, respectively): Warner or Roethlisberger?
3) I hate to be "that guy"; nevertheless, will we see any of Matt Leinart or Byron Leftwich in this game?
4) Will Edgerrin James or Tim Hightower or even JJ Arrington receive the majority of touches out of the Arizona backfield?
5) Since too many fans (myself included) blame the refs for every loss: which team is getting hosed more often tonight?

5 Arizona Questions:
1) How will Neil Rackers and Ben Graham play in the biggest moments of their respective kicking lives?
2) Can Karlos Dansby put on the top performance - for either team - at the linebacker position?
3) How will Bertrand Berry and Darnell Dockett apply pressure and bring down Big Ben most effectively?
4) Will the tight ends for Arizona be able to do anything of value in the receiving game?
5) Will Kurt Warner protect the ball or become statue-esque?

5 Pittsburgh Questions:
1) Is Ike Taylor a mediocre cornerback or perhaps one of the NFL's most unknown emerging talents?
2) Which of the linebackers - specifically Harrison and Woodley - gives Warner the most anxiety?
3) Will Heath Miller be a redzone target the Cardinals neglect to locate?
4) What's your call for another big play from Santonio Holmes on offense and/or special teams?
5) Will Casey Hampton be able to plug the middle and stiffle the Arizona rush attack from early on?

Man I love this catch. But seriously, who goes from unknown to known in a matter of 60 seconds after today's game? Nate Washington? Jeremy Urban? I know who it won't be...Limas Sweed.
Credit: Google Images

We've seen the previews, the predictions, a Madden simulation, and now 15 questions.
All we have left to do now is enjoy the game.

Check in for quarter-by-quarter analysis and some live streaming.

See you after kickoff!!!

5 NFL Questions - Championship Weekend

Philadelphia Eagles @ Arizona Cardinals [3:00 pm on FOX]

Can 5th-round pick Tim Hightower be effective rushing the ball in the redzone today?
Credit: Yahoo! Sports

1) What protection schemes will Wisenhunt and Grimm come up with to protect Kurt Warner from the machinations of Jim Johnson's exotic blitz packages?
2) What are the respective health statuses of Anquan Boldin and Brian Westbrook?
3) Is Karlos Dansby prepared to play the game of his life?
4) Which rookie will have a greater impact: DeSean Jackson or Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie?
5) Will Andy Reid and Donovan McNabb finally come full circle from the "benching incident" against Baltimore?


Baltimore Ravens @ Pittsburgh Steelers [6:30 pm on CBS]

Can Big Ben expose a hole or two - if only for a second - in the Raven secondary with tight end Heath Miller in the "check-down" spot?
Credit: Yahoo! Sports

1) Will Joe Flacco be the first rookie QB to guide his team to the Super Bowl with 3 straight road victories in the playoffs?
2) Will the Steelers sweep the Ravens (and their defense) 3-0?
3) Which ballhawking safety will seal the game: Ed Reed or Troy Polamalu?
4) Is Terrell Suggs going to play or be a factor whatsoever?
5) Which team will establish their running game earliest and most often in each half?

Just in case you're bored at any time today with either game, hit up Blockbuster for this unforgettable Disney classic...



Enjoy the games...

5 NFL Questions - Divisional Round Sunday

After yesterday's subpar effort, you still get 5 Questions for EACH game. Lucky you, right?

Philadelphia Eagles @ NY Giants [1pm, FOX]

When will Asante Samuel get his pick-six?
Credit: Yahoo! Sports

1) Who will do a better job with ball security today: Donovan McNabb or Eli Manning?
2) Who will have the greater deep-ball/special teams impact: DeSean Jackson or Domenik Hixon?
3) Which platoon-back will have more touches: Correll Buckhalter or Derrick Ward?
4) Which kicker may be asked to nail a game-winning in blistery winds in the final moments of the game: David Akers or John Carney?
5) Will the Eagles suffer with a lack of a redzone rush offense?

San Diego Chargers @ Pittsburgh Steelers [4:45 pm, CBS]

Last week it was AP MVP Peyton Manning. How about AP Defensive Player of the Year next?
Credit: Yahoo! Sports

1) Is Darren Sproles officially ready for playoff immortality?
2) What type of magic does Troy Polamalu have up his "playoff" sleeve?
3) Is Antonio Gates back to elite TE (aka "you better double cover me every play") status.
4) Which team will lose BOTH the turnover and the penalty battle?
5) What affect will the weather have on the West Coast Bolts?

Enjoy the games...

5 NFL Questions - Divisional Round Saturday

5 Questions for EACH game. Lucky you, right?

Baltimore Ravens @ Tennessee Titans [4:30 pm, CBS]

If Albert Haynesworth is the BEAST of this defense, it only makes its leader (above) that much more lethal.

Credit: Yahoo! Sports

1) What type of impact will the Raven wideouts (Mason & Clayton) have against the suddenly-vaunted duo of Finnegan & Harper?
2) How will the Titans handle the impact of missing All Pro C Kevin Mawae; specifically, with Ravens monster DT Haloti Ngata?
3) Which duo will see more carries today: McClain/McGahee or White/Johnson?
4) Which team will be able to convert redzone possessions into TDs rather than FG attempts?
5) Over/under for Ed Reed INTs is 2. Over/under for Ed Reed pick-sixes is 1. Your calls?

Arizona Cardinals @ Carolina Panthers [8:15 pm, FOX]

If you don't know who Jon Beason is yet...be prepared to after Saturday night.
Credit: MM.news-record

1) Can Anquan Boldin again defy the doctor's expectations and be a factor - or suit up at all - Saturday night?
2) Does Arizona stand any reasonable chance of stopping the duo of DeAngelo Williams and "The Daily Show"?
3) Who's the better deepball, downfield threat in this game: Larry Fitzgerald or Steve Smith?
4) Will Jake Delhomme take care of the ball like a playoff quarterback must?
5) Will Julius Peppers reign havoc on a statue-esque Kurt Warner?

Enjoy the games. Feel free to comment with some of your own questions, answers to mine, or score predictions.

NFL Divisional Playoffs Pre-Game Analysis: San Diego at Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh Do’s and Don’t’s

Do take advantage of the renewed health on the league’s most dominant defense. NFL Defensive MVP James Harrison, safety Ryan Clark, and corner Bryant McFadden are all ready to go. Somewhere, Norv Turner is wondering why his prayers went unanswered.

Do get Big Ben and the receivers in rhythm early. The Chargers defense is not the best against the pass, and gives up a lot of yardage. Hines Ward, Santonio Holmes, Nate Washington and Heath Miller all need to step up to take the pressure off Roethlisburger and Parker who are playing this game below 100%.

Do pray for the worst weather. The Chargers will be out of their cozy southern California element. If the weather is cold and rainy at Heinz Field, the Steelers will have a big advantage.

Don’t get 13 penalties for 115 yards like the last time against the Bolts. With Roethlisburger passing for 300+ and Parker rushing for 100+, it was still an 11-10 game. Discipline will go a long way in helping the Steelers move to the AFC Championship.

Don’t hesitate to bring in Leftwich if Roethlisburger is struggling. Big Ben suffered a nasty concussion in week 17 (where both of his arms went numb). Apparently Tomlin has dismissed the notion of pulling Big Ben, but that could be a mistake. Leftwich isn’t your run-of-the-mill backup. He has a lot of valuable experience as a starter, and should be ready to step up.

San Diego Do’s and Don’t’s

Do get Darren Sproles heavily involved. In their first meeting of the clubs, Sproles only handled the ball three times. Obviously, if Tomlinson is out for this game, Sproles will get the lion’s share of touches.

Do attack through the air and let Phillip Rivers’s hot hand do the damage. In the Colts game, we saw Gates, Jackson, Chambers and Sproles get looks. That should continue. Hopefully Vincent Jackson isn’t held out of the game for the DUI.

Do let your front seven control the game. Feeding off the nasty play from the defensive line (Williams, Castillo & Olshansky) over the last 5 games, this defense blossomed, giving opposing QBs fits as they don’t have much time to make their throws.

Don’t let this turn into the 11-10 knock-down drag-out match earlier in the season. The Steelers will take the close game. They have the more seasoned team. And another Polamalu invisible TD could send fans over the edge, and the media trolling for hours to figure out what the final score should have been.

Don’t count on Kaeding with the game on the line. He has a history of choking in the playoffs. However, don’t fret when punting. If Mike Scifres punts like he did against the Colts, the field position battle heavily favors the Bolts. Any offense with their back against the end-zone plays a much more conservative offense, and the Bolts defense could capitalize.

Key Matchups:

When Pittsburgh has the Ball
C Justin Hartwig vs. NT Jamal Williams
Jamal Williams has been straight-up NASTY lately. He has as much to do with the success of the San Diego defense late in the season as anyone. Hartwig is one of the most underrated centers in the league. Steelers FB Carey Davis might need to step up and help out.

When San Diego has the Ball
TE Antonio Gates vs. Troy Polamalu
Antonio Gates has recently looked like the Gates of old, who was one of the most prolific pass receiving TEs in the game. Polamalu will probably draw this assignment on most pass plays. This is one of those classic battles where you have two of the best players at their respective positions facing off. Definitely keep this match up in your periphery when the Chargers are in the Red Zone.

Intangibles

Game Day Interview
Like Rex Ryan of the Ravens and Jim Schwartz of the Titans, this is also the case-study portion of Ron Rivera’s job interview on the sidelines. Expect more of the same stuff you saw in the Wild Card Playoff game against the Colts.

Ride the Streak
The streak is at 5 games, and coming off a win against a very hot Colts team, the Bolts are on a high. The question is: What team is going to show up? The Bolts who are on a rampage, tearing through any team in their path, or a team with an inflated ego facing a dominant Steelers defense who’s ready to burst their bubble?

Final Score Prediction
Steelers edge the Bolts 23-21

NFL Divisional Playoffs Pre-Game Analysis: Philadelphia at NY Giants

Philadelphia Do's and Don't's:

Do your best to pack extra ice in the cooler. Brandon Jacobs is going to run, run, and run some more against the Eagles defense. The Giants should be wise enough to know you can't "save" a back for future games he's not guaranteed to see. A steady diet of Jacobs must be expected by Jim Johnson's defense, no matter how successful or unsuccessful the bruising back is on the Giants' opening few drives. All it takes is one brutal run downfield to inflict physical and psychological damage on an opposing defense.

Do whatever it takes to isolate Brian Westbrook on Antonio Pierce. Pierce is talented, but no linebacker in the NFL can keep up with Westbrook in the open field. Memories of Westbrook's TD against the G-Men last month have to be ringing through defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo's head. As they should.

Do your best to involve Kevin Curtis early. While Troy Aikman went a bit overboard in calling Curtis a potential "great player", Curtis has plenty of downfield speed to spare and can run a sharp corner route against soft coverage. He's Philly's top wideout-option (not named Westbrook, of course) and has proven that he is capable of going nucking futs if he starts going early.

Don't allow Kevin Boss to go unchecked in the secondary. Plaxico is going to be TERRIBLY missed. Duh. Nevertheless, Hixon deep and Steve Smith in the slot on third down can't be the only two objectives for Dawkins, Samuel, and company in the secondary. Boss often goes weeks without catches; yet, has just enough playoff experience and is sneaky-good in the redzone with Eli.

Don't let Darren Howard underperform. I'm not sure exactly how you do that; nevertheless, Howard needs to be in the backfield - among several other talented Iggle defensive lineman - and all over Eli Manning (get ready for it now...early and often). Rattling a Super Bowl MVP won't occur easily. However, I do believe Eli can be frustrated and the rush game can stall out at times. Not without a consistent in-your-face pass rush though.

New York Do's and Don't's:

Do use the Meadowlands to your advantage. The wind is one a kind and Donovan McNabb - despite tremendous poise last weekend - has been frustrated before in this stadium. Nothing will help your team (and the crowd) more then a strong start on offense and a 7-0 lead up on the scoreboard. Put the pressure on McNabb to throw the ball to keep up with your offense, especially if the elements are willing to help your defense.

Do your best to pop Hixon deep early. His drop several weeks ago still has to sting a bit, despite a solid performance after Plaxico went down from the emerging wideout talent. While Burress is obviously a noted absence, Eli seems to have developed a strong chemistry with Hixon. Use that to your advantage, especially since Assante Samuel (perhaps the top postseason NFL CB since a younger Ty Law) owns the flats and sidelines.

Don't allow Donovan McNabb to feel comfortable in the pocket. McNabb proved last week that despite a rush game that doesn't click immediately, if he has time he's going to beat you down the field. While Philly doesn't have an electric offense, they'll dink and dunk their way downfield very effectively; especially with their talented RBs in the screen game. If only LJ Smith didn't stink so much. If the Giant front four - particularly Fred Robbins up the middle and Justin Tuck on the edge - stall early, big problems may ensue downfield for their secondary.

Don't keep your eyes off of DeSean Jackson. He's one-of-a-kind on punt returns, reverses, and (yes, even) as a wide receiver. Any space and Jackson has the ability to take it to the house. It's tough enough gameplanning for the speed of Westbrook in the open field; however, Philly has a rookie wideout just begging for a playoff touchdown for the ages.

Don't forget about field position. John Carney has been nothing short of a godsend this season and has plenty of leg for this stadium, despite being on the wrong side of 40 years old. If the field goal isn't available, wise punting has to be practiced with the dangerous aformentioned Jackson waiting. The Giants' ability to both sack the quarterback and force costly turnovers is one of their greatest assetts. Nothing will help this team more than frustrating McNabb and Andy Reid deep inside their own territory.

Key Matchups:

When Philadelphia has the ball...
OTs Tra Thomas & John Runyan vs. DE Justin Tuck
I already took plenty of time to talk about the obvious: Brian Westbrook vs. Antonio Pierce. Instead, I'm going to take a chapter out of Sum and Armin's previews and talk about the play of offensive tackles and defensive ends. While previous matchups focused on names like Terrell Suggs and Julius Peppers on the defensive side, there might not be a more talented young, stud defensive end than Justin Tuck. Enter into the equation the play of two recognized Eagle tackles (Tra Thomas & John Runyan). If they bully and stymie Tuck early on the pass rush, it's the rush game that wins out most. Funny how that works, huh?

When New York has the ball...
RBs Brandon Jacobs & Derrick Ward vs. Philadelphia LBs (who remain nameless)
With all due-respect to Ahmad Bradshaw, I'll be surprised if the Giants gameplan more than 4-5 touches for him. Meanwhile, I already talked about the likely tremendous impact Jacobs will have on this game. Second half-stud Derrick Ward can't be forgotten either. Lethal in the late stages of several key games down the stretch this season, surprisingly in the short passing game as well as rushing the ball, Ward offers a surprising "breath of fresh air" for opposing defenses. Enter the somewhat unknown Eagle LBs. Not only will they have a runaway bulldozer coming at them; but also a talented fleet-footed back who will seem oddly fresh early in the second half. Good luck, gentlemen.

Intangibles

Haven't I Seen You Before???
I'm not going to rant about this, yet it matters a TON. This teams have seen each two times a year since the Bronze Age (didn't I use that reference last week?). In fact, in years past they've seen each other three times. Something tells me neither team will be too surprised at what the other throws at them. That usually means the bread-and-butter wins out. I gotta favor the G-Men's to the Eagles, despite being sans-Plaxico.

Legacies for Quarterbacks
Don't look now, but if Eli has two Super Bowl rings to brother Peyton's one, a legitimate conversation may arise as to who will have the greater legacy. Meanwhile, McNabb might not be Philly-bound for much longer. I can't help but wonder if his legacy may be far too clouded in the puking-incident against the Patriots in the Super Bowl. Both quarterbacks know that a win puts them in the driver's seat for the Super Bowl. Not a shabby place to cement your legacy...on your own terms.

Final Score Prediction
NY Giants win, 33-24

NFL Divisional Playoffs Pre-Game Analysis: Baltimore at Tennessee

Tennessee Do’s and Don’t’s

Do that thing you do. Not trying to break out a lyric from a Tom Hanks movie. Just making it plain and simple. Run the ball. Ram it down their throats. The Ravens Defense is a monster, but like any defense, commitment to the run can wear them out. A heavy dose of LenDale and Johnson is the best way to get that defense on their heels.

Do free up Bulluck and Thornton so they can play all over the field. If Haynesworth is heart of the defense, Bulluck and Thornton are its soul. If the front four and Tulloch can handle their assignments, don’t be surprised if you hear Bulluck’s or Thornton’s name mentioned on a lion’s share of the plays (in a good way).

Do find a way to get Scaife involved. If the running game is churning out 3 YPC against this great Baltimore defense, Scaife needs to show his stuff on third downs as the safety-valve. Though Crumpler’s role has been as a blocking TE for most of the year, he flashed receiving skills in the past, and could offer the team another check-down option in the passing game.

Don’t let Haloti Ngata destroy your offensive line, now that there are reports of Kevin Mawae saying he can’t go. Mawae is the most important cog of that line, especially against a 3-4 defense, where he is usually asked to do more than make the initial line calls and either take on a LB or pull a double or stunt on a DT. Whichever of Leroy Harris, Jake Scott or Eugene Amano move over to center, they will have the beast, Ngata, on them most of the game, not to mention, occasionally Ray Lewis.

Don’t forget to find Justin Gage on occasion. He has four to six inches on any CB he faces on the Ravens. This mismatch should draw a safety’s attention in coverage. If Gage can draw Ed Reed, McCareins and Jones could find themselves in some decent situations in the secondary.

Baltimore Do’s and Don’t’s

Do unleash a Ravens defense, which rivals that of the Super Bowl team. They must shut down Chris Johnson and LenDale White early, forcing Kerry Collins to attempt to beat them. While Collins has a 50/50 shot at throwing 3 TDs or 3 INTs, the odds are much worse for the Ravens if Johnson and White run wild.

Do figure out who has the hot hand (or would that be “hot foot”?) early between Willis McGahee and La’Ron McClain. Will success arise from McGahee’s ability to get outside the tackles, or McClain’s bruising style up the middle? Whichever it is, a successful running game is key for either team winning this game.

Do put Ed Reed in position to get 2+ turnovers. The Ravens are undefeated in games where this ball-hawking great gets 2 or more. Success in sending Reed after Collins early will cause the Titans to change blocking schemes and take their TEs out of the passing game. Without his safety-valves, Collins will be forced to make some throws, and turnovers should ensue.

Don’t force the weight of this game onto Flacco’s shoulders. While he has had a good rookie year, the last time he faced the Titans he was picked off three times (though one was overturned). Let Flacco get his redemption by keeping his attempts around or below 25, which should also mean that other things have fallen into place for the Ravens.

Don’t let the away game have an effect on the team. This is going to be a defensive chess game that should be full of big plays (we’ll toss the offenses a couple). Just remember that the leaders of your defense already have one of those rings that you’re playing for now. There is immense value in knowing how to win when it matters. Lean on Ray Lewis and Ed Reed, and let them lead the team to victory.

Key Match Ups:

When Tennessee has the Ball
LT Michael Roos vs. OLB Terrell Suggs
Will Suggs be the first NFL player this season to score a sack off Roos?

When Baltimore has the Ball
WRs Derrick Mason & Mark Clayton vs. CBs Cortland Finnegan & Nick Harper
This is one should be a great battle. Both CBs have their finesse style, but are also a lot more physical than they look. Finnegan came into his own these last two years and is playing his best football. Lately, Derrick Mason has been making the important catches that fly under the radar, gaining more of Flacco’s trust. Clayton became an occasional X-Factor receiver late in the season.

Intangibles

Head Coaching Interviews
Rex Ryan and Jim Schwartz are doing the case-study portion of their job interviews while on the sidelines. If they plan to land a head coaching job, they need to bring their best as D-Coordinators, and show that they are the right men for the available jobs. With the amount of extra effort these two should be putting into this game, I can see a defensive match up unfolding.

D-Line Health
Haynesworth and Vanden Bosch started practicing this week. They are essential for the Titans run-stopping. They can’t afford for McGahee and McClain to break off long runs, burying their team.

Final Score Prediction
Baltimore takes out the early season juggernaut in a squeaker…17-13

InClement Weather: Saturday Night Live

No, I'm not talking about the "remember when it was funny" sketch comedy show.

Instead, it's time to rant...late-night style.

Arizona defeats Atlanta 30-24

If Edgerrin James can perform as well next week as he did against the Falcons, the Cardinals - whether at Carolina/New York, will be a tough opponent.
Credit: Yahoo Sports!

1) Kurt Warner may have lost the MVP the last two months of the season; however, he delivered a (home) playoff win to Arizona. No other quarterback has ever done that.
2) Karlos Dansby was highlighted by Sum brilliantly. A+++ analysis, my friend.
3) Matty "Ice" wasn't amazing in his first playoff game, but he showed plenty to prove it won't be his last.
4) Roddy White is an absolute beast.
5) Keith Brooking is going to have nightmares about giving up that 3rd down. Nightmares.

San Diego defeats Indianapolis 23-17 (OT)

Right where he belongs. Yes, he's a Hall of Famer. One of the top RBs ever. But he's also - more than ever - an absolute B-A-B-Y.
Credit: BigMattress.com

1) Sorry hockey fans, but I love me some playoff OT football the best. Oh yeah, hockey sucks.
2) Darren Sproles has earned himself a few extra million in free agency, even if he stays put.
3) The Indianapolis defense yet again let the organization down. Bob Sanders isn't Polamalu, Ed Reed, or Brian Dawkins.
4) I'll still take a healthy Tom Brady any day over Peyton Manning. While Peyton deserved the MVP, his playoff performance year in and year out doesn't amaze me. His only TD-toss tonight was a gimmick. Brady has more poise, patience, and stability. Remember, I HATE THE PATRIOTS. Manning is a stud QB and one of the all-time greats, but there's a reason that he doesn't have 3 Super Bowls like Tom Brady. And it isn't just Belichick.
5) Tony Dungy is a class-act, but he might be done in Indianapolis. Another great season ends in playoff dissapointment. I'm glad he EARNED his ring, but Dungy and Manning won't get another together, especially if the aforementioned Brady returns 100%.

...NFL Rule-Changes...
A) The play clock needs to be shortened. With 2 minutes to go in the game, you shouldn't be able to down the ball three times and run out the clock. Shorten the clock to 30 seconds if need be.
B) I understand why if a player doesn't go down, they blow the whistle. It's to protect the player. However, if you refuse to go down, I say let the play go until you go down. Maybe that's too NFL Blitz-like, but I am tired of "judgment down-by-contact plays" when someone is still fighting for yardage.
C) Intentional grounding is a joke. Rivers flung the ball at Jacob Hester's back foot while being engulfed by Mathis. This rule is far too subjective. If the receiver "in the vicinity" isn't looking for the ball whatsoever, it's intentional grounding.

Hope you enjoyed Sunday. Two home "dogs" took home important Ws for their franchise. So much for the "experts". 8-8 and 9-7 don't look pretty on paper; yet, both of these teams are dangerous. Very very dangerous.

Enjoy tomorrow!!!!

...one final LT-rant...
LT is an absolute baby. If he isn't 100%, he sits out. Or even worse, he tries and then takes himself out. Why? Because he's a baby. It's no surprise though, not anymore at least. I firmly 100% believe he plans out thinking he'll play until it hurts too much. That way he doesn't get chewed out because "he tried". He needs to change into street clothes or take the pads off if he won't return. It's not like an injury will force him back in either. Why else is Michael Bennett given carries in the playoffs for the first time all season???

Now I don't need anyone to explain what was hurting the last two playoff games. I get they were injuries. But I refuse to buy that he didn't demand to be on the field the past two seasons. In fact, he demanded to do just enough to not be active. If you can warm-up and take snaps, play through not being able to make "those cuts" and leave your blood and guts out on the field.

Plenty of other players have played through far more pain. Chad Pennington beat your Chargers (Jets plug!) with a torn rotator cuff. Think that hurt?

People can mock a guy like Emmitt Smith all day long (and they should for some of the ridiculously-idiotic stuff he says on TV), but he played through pain. And I'm not just talking about the seperated shoulder in the Meadowlands. Walter Payton always played through it too. You think an injury would've shut him down in 1985? Nope nope nope. Just like so many of the greats did.

LT, take it from your QB and play through the pain in order to win a championship. Otherwise, the baby stroller stays.

NFL WildCard Weekend: Saturday's 5 Questions

..5 Questions for EACH Game...

Atlanta @ Arizona [4:30 pm]
1) Can the Cardinals win without any legitimacy to their rush offense?
2) Will Kurt Warner and the Arizona Cardinals be able to overcome an abysmal December and win their first playoff game at home since the Bronze Age?
3) How do the Falcons plan to prepare for the talented three wideouts - Fitzgerald, Boldin, & Breaston - wearing Cardinal uniforms?
4) Will Matt Ryan officially show the world who "Matty Ice" is?
5) How many yards do you have for runner-up for the MVP Michael Turner against a suspect Cardinals rush D?

Colts @ Chargers [8 pm]
1) How much will a healthy combo of Freeney/Mathis impact the Charger offense?
2) What impact will new defensive coordinator Ron Rivera have against Peyton Manning and the Colt offense?
3) What are the prospective injury-statuses of Colt Bob Sanders as well as Chargers superstars LaDanian Tomlinson & Antonio Gates
4) Are the Chargers lethal because they're at home, yet still "playing with house money"?
5) Is Phillip Rivers the most unappreciated guy in recent memory to lead (tied with Brees) the NFL in TD passes?

NFL WildCard Playoffs Pre-Game Analysis: Baltimore at Miami

Miami Do’s and Don’t’s:

It's not Clayton/Duper, but Bess and Ginn have as much speed as any duo in the NFL. Good thing when the Ravens secondary is in town.

Credit: Yahoo! Sports

Do your best to stack the box on obvious running downs. Force the rookie QB – starting his first playoff game on the road, no less – to beat you downfield. It puts a TON of pressure on your relatively young secondary; nevertheless, you have to like your odds more in that scenario.

Do take advantage of a quarterback with legit playoff experience. Pennington has been the gross underdog – home or away – and guided past (Jet) teams to playoff victories against "superior teams and QBs". Don’t be so casual to forget that he’s made the big throws – for better or worse – in scenarios much rougher than at home in Miami this weekend.

Don’t allow Derrick Mason to roam free in the middle of the field. He’s the sneakiest player at that position in the NFL. Far too often he becomes discarded or totally forgotten about, especially in the slot. He’ll take a crushing hit or too as well, whether for 15 yards or 1 ½ on the reception.

Don’t allow the pick-six to burn you. It’s not impossible to plan against this. Open up the playbook – just a bit – but don’t allow their talented secondary to bite on routes. Not to mention, their LBs (as Terrell Suggs proved in Week 7) will gobble up errand balls. Anything out of the zone is property of Ed Reed. Ball security from the QB must be a QB's #1 priority when you see the Ravens on the opposing sideline.

Don’t completely abandon the benefits of the Wildcat Formation. This Ravens team is not a prolific offense (obviously). If it struggles to gain first downs early, try your best to step on their throats. Put the vice on Joe Flacco with Joey Porter barking in his ear every time he hits the corner to sack the CAA-product.


Baltimore Do’s and Don’t’s:

Averaging less than 3 catches for 25 yards a game (with only 3 TDs), the former Pro Bowler remains lost in the shuffle of an improving offense, with a rookie QB at the helm. Will that change come playoff time?

Credit: CNNSI.com

Do your best to platoon McClain and McGahee from start to finish. Why not ride both horses down the stretch, regardless of the score differential. Joe Flacco is still a rookie and there remains a significant lack of chemistry between him and his talented TE Todd Heap.

Do slip in a trick play or two for the uber-talented Mark Clayton. He’s fast and an ever-emerging athlete in the Raven offense. The Miami defenders just faced a QB (last week) with a bum shoulder who underthrew everything. Now it’s time to air out a ball or two downfield early; especially if 1-on-1 coverage is isolated on corner/stop-and-go routes.

Don’t think it's automatic that your team can win without scoring above 20 points. It’s easy to ride your defense while grinding the ball playing field position. While the Dolphin offense and special teams won’t break the bank too often; they do force turnovers. Keep that in mind when you have a rookie QB taking snaps in the 4th quarter of a game much closer than your confident defense might've expected.

Don’t expect the Dolphins to be the least bit intimidated, especially at home. This should go without saying; however, playing with house money – even at home – allows teams to act like snakes lurking in the grass. Bad symbolism, but it still rings true. The Wildcat isn't going anywhere this weekend.

Don’t forget Cam Cameron was the head coach at Miami last season, for better or worse. It’s an X-factor that might go under the rug, yet might play more of a factor than expected. Not to mention, Miami did beat a very different Baltimore (offense) last season when they were winless sans-Pennington. I’m just sayin’…

Key Matchups:

When Miami has the ball…
RB Ronnie Brown vs. LB Ray Lewis

Whether or not the Wildcat formation can work against such a disciplined defense – who has seen it before mind you – is irrelevant. Seriously. What matters is how much confidence the Dolphin coaching staff has in attempting (throughout the game) to see if Ronnie Brown is or isn’t able to take the direct snap and make a play…even if it’s a simple pitch to a dive play for Ricky. Whether it be an end-around to Ginn, a fleaflicker back to Pennington, or potentially a throw from Brown in the redzone, finding holes against this one-of-a-king speedy yet savvy defense may give the Dolphins the big play or two they need to win.

When Baltimore has the ball…
FB Le’Ron McClain vs. LB Channing Crowder

I was one of those who questioned Channing Crowder’s ability to play linebacker – especially inside the 3-4 alignment – in the NFL. While he’s far from a Pro Bowler, his athleticism and tenacity (just ask Matt Light) is ever-improving. McClain, who you’ll see just as often as the primary RB, will have a size/strength vs. speed/agility matchup most FBs either dread or salivate over.

Intangibles

Poise and Patience
You’d think the QB advantage would immediately go to Chad Pennington; yet, I’m not so sure. Flacco seems to play with a (quiet) chip on his shoulder and has arguably the more talented set of wideouts and skilled offensive players. It’ll be interesting to see how Pennington performs in the playoffs, especially in the 1st half when previous (Jet) experiences have been far more positive than his second halves. Pennington won't be nervous at all, yet arm strength may become a factor against a blitzing onslaught from the Ravens D and their coordinator Rex Ryan.

Special Teams
Matt Stover was arguably the “offensive” MVP of the 2000 Super Bowl season for the Ravens. On the other hand, Miami has an unknown kicker (Carpenter) fresh off an impressive weekend in the Meadowlands; however they also have a return unit - in all major categories - ranked in the bottom 5 in the entire NFL. Protecting your half of the field is vital to both teams, who don’t exactly gameplan on lighting the scoreboard up.

The Coaches
Just when you thought I wouldn’t mention “him”…I will. Tony Sporano (gotcha!) is a first-year coach who has seen his fair share of recent playoff disappointments in Dallas. Nevertheless, he also has to realize the tremendous opportunity he has in front of him. Good coaches don’t take these games lightly. We might call it, "playing with house money", but good coaches know it just takes one win to survive and move on. Meanwhile, John Harbaugh has two savvy coordinators in his back pocket and (defensive) players who often play like they don’t need coaching. It’s almost poetic that both these two teams – both buried in last place last season – would be so fortunate to be lifted up by two talented first-year coaches.

Final Score Prediction
Baltimore wins 27-10

So it's come to this...AFC-style

Yesterday, the NFC got its due. Today, it's AFC time.

Let's get a few things straight (again)...

The identity of the Ravens begins and ends with Ray Lewis. If you're looking for the emotional leader to watch during Wild Card weekend...look no further.
Credit: Yahoo! Sports

AFC

..."The Guys You DREAM about Being"...
#1. (13-3) Tennessee Titans
Comment: Ever since the run for undefeated ended (not that anyone took it too seriously), the Titans did just enough - including a highly impressive home victory over the Steelers - to secure homefield throughout the AFC. Their reward? Potentially the suffocating defense of Baltimore OR the winner of the Colts/Bolts. Awesome, right?
Guy to Watch: Albert Haynesworth is the heart and soul of this defense. We get it. Nevertheless, if this team can't score enough points on offense, the Titans may be one-and-done. I'm looking at an aging Kerry Collins and wondering if his last playoff go-round will be his most memorable or not.

#2. (12-4) Pittsburgh Steelers
Comment: Big Ben should be fine and the Steelers will make the very most of their week off. Problem is, this team can be beat in Pittsburgh. How do I know this? David Garrard and a very different Jaguars team took some of the luster away from Heinz field last year. Nobody is walking into Pittsburgh intimidated anymore.
Guy to Watch: Santonio Holmes was a collosal fantasy dissapointment. Duh. Nevertheless, he has downfield ability and can open up lanes for both the rush game and for slot wideout/cheap-shot artist Hines Ward.

..The Guys Everyone Out of the Playoffs Wants to Be Next Year"...
#3. (11-5) Miami Dolphins
Comment: Just because the team beat teams it was "supposed to beat" doesn't mean it will lie down - at home - against the Ravens. Take care of the ball, slip Ted Ginn downfield a play or two, and bust open an unexpected special teams play or two and the game may be theirs. Playing with house money makes you very dangerous.
Guy to Watch: Ronnie Brown is the lone Dolphin Pro Bowler for a reason. His ability in the Wildcat Formation allows the Dolphins 4-5 chances a game to open up a big play. He'll need to be ready for a brutal pounding from the Raven defense. If he survives though, Miami might too.

...Yes, YOU can make the playoffs after starting 4-8...
#4. (8-8) San Diego Chargers
Comment: 4-8 and suddenly everything seems to go right. While LT's groin is an obvious issue, Phillip Rivers isn't the NFL's top-rated QB for no reason. As dangerous as the Colts are, you gotta know the Chargers have no fear about them coming into their house.
Guy to Watch: Antonio Cromartie has to be the elite shutdown cornerback many pegged him as after last year's sensational effort. While that's easier said then done against the likes of Manning/Wayne/Harrison, it's time for AC to go Prime Time.

..The Teams NOBODY Wants to See Right Now"...
#5. (12-4) Indianapolis Colts
Comment: The media loves this team and Peyton Manning likely has a third NFL MVP secured (although he did share one with McNair). Blah blah blah. Wake me up when something new is said.
Guy to Watch: Addai and Rhodes are behind the likes of Manning and Bob Sanders in acclaim; nevertheless, I want to see if these two backs can work the same chemistry they did two seasons ago en route to a championship.

#6. (11-5) Baltimore Ravens
Comment: The coordinators (Cameron & Ryan) have been the perfect duo behind their rookie head coach. Meanwhile, Ed Reed (9 INTs) is playing as well as any defender in football, the RB duo of McClain & McGahee (in that order) look terrific, and it's another rookie QB leading his team to 11 wins. How sweet.
Guy to Watch: Haloti Ngata was given a real tough time in Baltimore after being drafted, until he showed up on the field. Nowadays, he's perhaps the most athletic man - at his size - the NFL has seen in quite some time. He clogs the middle and allows those playmakers behind him to dominate. Not bad for a collegiate underachiever who "took plays off".

..."The 11-5 Team NOT in the NFL Playoffs"...
#7. (11-5) New England Patriots
Comment: I'm a bitter Jet fan, so I'm clinging to a pathetic notion that as long as the Pats are out...all is good. It's all I have...
Guy to Watch: Matt Cassell, of course.

..."The Same Old Jets"...
#8. (9-7) New York Jets
Comment: There's nothing left to say except, "same old Jets".
Guy to Watch: Vernon Gholston has an offseason to get ready for next year. 12 total tackles again may run him out of New York for good.

..."The Others"...
#9. (8-8) Houston Texans
Comment: Another season where they end well in Houston. Question is: when do they start well and put two-and-two together?
Guy to Watch: Steve Slaton has dynamic talent. Better get him a legit compliment in the first 3 rounds of the draft next season. Ahman Green can't be that guy.

#10. (8-8) Denver Broncos
Comment: One win in the final four weeks and we're all treated to yet another Colts/Broncos game. Thank god this team lost out.
Guy to Watch: The RB-position needs stability and some luck with injuries. Peyton Hillis ain't the answer, either.

#11. (7-9) Buffalo Bills
Comment: Dick Jauron should save his job; however, real answers are needed when you go from 5-1 to 7-9. Especially when you're winless (0-6) in the AFC East amidst those final 10 games.
Guy to Watch: Trent Edwards. Up-and-coming superstar my a**.

..."The Other Others"...
#12. (5-11) Oakland Raiders
Comment: Whether or not they hire a new coach is irrelevant. The team can't draft well and there's nothing stable in the locker room. 5-11 might be the best this team sees for the next few seasons.
Guy to Watch: JaMarcus Russell has shown glimpses. But are only glimpses what you expect from the #1 overall pick?

..."How the 'Mighty' Have Fallen..."
#13. (5-11) Jacksonville Jaguars
Comment: As dissapointing a team as the Green Bay Packers, the Jags are lucky their media market stinks and they aren't getting any play as total underachievers.
Guy to Watch: David Garrard sucked this year. That's being nice, too. Another ECU QB flameout? Probably.

...And then there's "THEM"...
#14. (4-11-1) Cincinnati Bengals
Comment: I love that people were stupid enough to believe in this organization.
Guy to Watch: Chad Ocho Cinco is a pariah. Ride his big mouth out of town if you want any chance of locker room continuity and self-respect.

#15. (4-12) Cleveland Browns
Comment: I called this record EXACTLY. Anyone who believed that this organization - behind Savage & Crenel - were playoff bound was an idiot. 4 QBs or not.
Guy to Watch: Brady Quinn is gonna need a lot of Myoplex to pull this organization out of the toilet. 10-6 was a fluke. A total fluke.

#16. (2-14) Kansas City Chiefs
Comment: It's gonna be a series of double-digit loss seasons for years to come...
Guy to Watch: Giving all that money to someone with the character of Larry Johnson will bury Carl Peterson's legacy in Kansas City. Probably serves him right, too.

PHSports Playoff previews and predictions start TOMORROW!!!