NFL Championship Weekend

A surprising development came about last weekend when the Chargers fell apart and lost at home to the Jets. We now look at a rematch from week 16 in Indianapolis, and the game people have wanted to see since week 3 in New Orleans.

3:00pm EST
New York Jets: 11-7 @ Indianapolis Colts: 15-2 (-7.5)
Outlook: I am guessing when Curtis Painter was growing up in Vincennes, IN and wanted to be a famous NFL quarterback, this is not what he had in mind. The Colts failure at perfection was dumped on his shoulders, when they replaced their starters while leading 15-10 in the 3rd quarter against the Jets in week 16. Indy went on to loose 29-16 and opened the door for New York to make the playoffs. This is being media-titled "Painter Bowl II".
Biggest Question Mark: How much of a factor will Darrell Revis be in shutting down Reggie Wayne? If he does, will the Jets be able to cover Dallas Clark and the other weapons at Mannings disposal?
Key Matchup: New York Jets running game vs. Indianapolis front 7
The Jets showed how dangerous their running game can be the last 2 weeks in playoffs victories. The Colts have a very fast and very solid defense run by their front 7.
Prediction: Indianapolis 27-10. Midnight is striking on this Cinderella story. Indy will shut them down just like they did to Baltimore last week.

6:40pm EST
Minnesota Vikings 13-4 @ New Orleans Saints: 14-3 (-3.5)
Outlook: The trend in the NFC playoffs this year has been teams putting up Tecmo Bowl type points. Expect more of the same from this game. 2 of the NFL's top scoring teams in a dome. This could make for a great game.
Biggest Question Mark: Will the Viking pass rush be able to get to Brees?
Games where the Vikings front 4 has had issues getting to the QB has allowed opponents to be able to complete passes easily. No one is better at creating formations and miss matches then Sean Payton. Look for him to move the pocket to give Brees time to make plays.
Key Matchup: Jabari Greer vs. Sidney Rice
Rice has been the best receiver for Minnesota all year. Greer was having an All-Pro year before needing hernia surgery half way through the season. He returned last week and shut down the league best receiver, Larry Fitzgerald. If he can keep Rice in check and make a big play or 2, Favre will have big issues.
Prediction: Saints 31-27. Brees will need to have a very good day, and he will be up to the challenge at home.

Last Week:

Spread: 0-4
Picks: 2-2