2011 NFL Wildcard Round Predictions
The only thing more embarrassing than my 2010 MLB playoff predictions is this banner on NFL.com…
Is it really necessary to have a Vince Lombardi look alike for this picture? Don’t you have some REAL Vince Lombardi photographs somewhere that you could have used instead? Stay classy, NFL.
It is time to give my predictions for the divisional round of the 2011 NFL playoffs, which means its time for Beer, Wings, and Football! Tshirt is available now at Zazzle.com/RideThePine (applause…or crickets, whatever works best in your head)
Saturday 4:30pm — New Orleans Saints (11–5) VS Seattle Seahawks (7–9)
Two great storylines in this game, the first playoff team with a losing record facing the injury depleted defending champions. New Orleans is favorite by 11 which seems like a lot for a visiting team. Watch for Seattle to come out of the gate with a ton of energy and maybe the first score but New Orleans will settle in during the second quarter and win this game by 14+. Matt Hasselback will finally show his age and Drew Brees will not throw a pick. Don’t be surprised if Charlie Whitehurst makes a showing.
Prediction: Saints 30 — Seahawks 7
Saturday 8pm — New York Jets (11–5) VS Indianapolis Colts (10–6)
Indy is a 3 point favorite at home and this one could end up being a low scoring ugly game. I think Peyton Manning and Jets QB Mark Sanchez will both struggle but the home field advantage and Colts kicker Adam Vinatieri will pull out a close one.
Prediction: Colts 23 — Jets 21
Sunday 1pm — Baltimore Ravens (12–4) VS Kansas City Chiefs (10–6)
Ravens are a three point road favorite, but I don’t have a lot of confidence in this Ravens team. Breaking news of Ed Reed’s brother disappearance has to have an impact on the all-WORLD safety. Joe Flacco is still unproven in the playoffs and could throw for two touchdowns and two picks. I’m not sold on the Chiefs either as they have struggled in the second half of the season. This will game will be decided on some weird play/call.
Prediction: Raves 17 — Chiefs 13
Sunday 4:30pm — Green Bay Packers (10–6) VS Philadelphia Eagles (10–6)
The most intriguing matchup of the weekend. The Eagles are a three point favorite but a lot of analyst are picking the Packers. One thing I’m confident on is that the winner of this game will represent the NFC in the Super Bowl. Watch for the Packers to control the first half of this game and Michael Vick to control the fourth quarter. David “Green” Akers kicks a field goal with time expiring for the win.
Prediction: Eagles 30 — Packers 27
