Divisional Round

Having survived Wild Card Weekend, I look ahead to the Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs.

It wasn't very pretty on the whole.  The officiating was not very good, and understatement to Lions fans, but it usually isn't very good.  The play was not very good.  Heck, Tony Romo won a playoff game coming from behind.

Suppose I ought to look ahead to the Divisional Rounds of playoffs.

The AFC- Indianapolis at Denver- Indianapolis comes off an easy win against the Bengals.  Denver leans on Peyton Manning and his decision making.  Andrew Luck looks pretty good, but I'm still looking for a running game.  Seems to me, if you can keep the other team's good quarterback off the field, you have a chance to win the game.  Since neither team seems to run the ball well, it may well come down to last possession wins.  Gotta take Peyton Manning.  (Unless it's Luck's time to usurp the throne!)

Baltimore at New England- Tom Brady is still a force to be reckoned with, and Joe Flacco has won a Super Bowl.  I have always liked the Ravens' defense, but the Patriots' defense can make big plays.  The Ravens have the running back, Justin Forsett, who can control the game.  If the Ravens can run the ball, Joe Flacco can finish the deal.  I believe this is the game most ripe for an upset.  Stay tuned.  Could have the best finish of the weekend.

The NFL- Dallas at Green Bay- Tony Romo finally won a big game, sort of.  Aaron Rodgers is the hottest quarterback in the NFL.  DeMarco Murray and Eddie Lacy can both control the game.  Neither defense could stop a strong offense.  This game could be high scoring affair.  Aaron Rodgers has the playoff experience Tony Romo does not.  I believe it will make all the difference when push comes to shove.  Dallas' best bet, believe it or not, is bad weather.  It could level the playing field.

Carolina at Seattle-  I've made it clear I am a lifelong Seahawk, but, objectively, this is a game of defenses.  They are both physical, strong, and capable of scoring.  Carolina is more physical against the run, which could be to their advantage.  Seattle is incredible against the pass, and strong against the run.  This game will be decided by which quarterback gives their offense more oppotunities...with their legs.  Russell Wilson is a lot more accurate than Cam Newton, and should be the difference maker.  Don't count the Panthers out.

So...am I off base?