CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEW
NFL CONFERENCE CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEW
Game 1: Green Bay Packers @ Atlanta Falcons (-4.5)
First off, I can’t believe that Green Bay is getting 4 and a half points (there’s your sure bet of the week). Secondly, I think Atlanta wins the game. Aaron Rodgers and the Packers are in the midst of a record breaking tear, and Atlanta’s high flying offense flattened Seattle last week. This game will be the unstoppable force against another unstoppable force. Basically what I’m saying is, the points are going to be flying. Two MVP candidates square off in a game that will be decided by a field goal or less.
Atlanta Wins IF: Matt Ryan takes advantage of a battered Green Bay secondary that isn't very good to begin with. The points will be flying, and if Ryan plays like he has all year and gets help from the run game, Atlanta can book their flight to Houston.
Green Bay Wins IF: Aaron Rodgers plays out of his mind (which he usually does). This team (defense) is going to need Rodgers to put them on his back and outscore the high powered Falcons offense. Rodgers needs at LEAST 350 yards and 3 touchdowns, and even that might not be enough.
SouthSide Prediction: Atlanta 42, Green Bay 41
Game 2: Pittsburgh Steelers @ New England Patriots (-5.5)
I’ll start by saying, Patriots covering the -5.5 is almost as much of a sure bet as the Packers covering the +4.5. The Patriots will likely come out much sharper than they did last week, and will look to shut down a Steeler offense that couldn't muster a touchdown in their win against Kansas City. Gillette Stadium in January is quite the task, and we’ll find out if the Killer B’s are up to the task. New England has the better coaches and should take care of business, but nothing is a sure bet this year in the NFL.
New England Wins IF: They protect Tom Brady, and don't beat themselves. This is precisely what they did last week, as they turned the ball over multiple times and allowed Brady to take a beating. If they can right the ship in those areas, they’ll be heading to Houston.
Pittsburgh Wins IF: Bell and Brown go crazy. This Pittsburgh offense is going to have to put up a lot of points if they want to beat Brady and Co, and these two are the key to that. If they both go for north of 120-150 yards and score multiple touchdowns, the Steelers will be looking pretty good.
SouthSide Prediction: New England 34, Pittsburgh 23.