I was 1-1 this week, missing the Packers/Giants game (As a Giants fan, I don't mind missing this one) My playoff record is now 8-2. Here are the results;
1. San Diego vs. New England
PICK: Patriots RESULT: Patriots 21-12
The Patriots increased their record to 18-0, but is wasn't easy as the Patriots offense was not as powerful as usual. After a near perfect game against the Jags, QB Tom Brady struggled throwing 3 INTs, perhaps due to his mysterious foot injury. RBs Lawrence Maroney and Kevin Faulk powered the offense while the Patriots D continued to play their bend but not break style. Many teams have moved the ball up and down the field on the Patriots but have been forced to settle for FGs when they can't score TDs (the Chargers kicked 4.) As stated here numerous times, to beat the Patriots, a team needs to score TDs, because that's what they are doing on offense. The Chargers lost L.T. after the first series, but QB Phillip Rivers was able to play the entire game with a brace to protect his torn ACL, a very courageous effort, even in defeat.
2. NY Giants vs. Green Bay
PICK: Packers RESULT: NY Giants 23-20 (OT)
-2 degrees with a windchill of -20 something. And judging by the face CB Charles Woodson gave after RB Brandon Jacobs ran him over on the Giants first play, tackling was not fun in the cold. The Giants did everything they could down the stretch to give the Packers a chance to grab the win; 2 missed FGs, an INT that was fumbled back to the Packers, and a punt return fumbled, kicked back 15 yds, but recovered by the Giants and then a penalty that negated a Bradshaw TD run. WR Plaxico Burress looked healthy despite his torn ankle ligament and had a monster day and battle with Pro Bowl CB Al Harris. Eli Manning played another good game, his confidence has really improved with the Giants' playoff run. Next up, a rematch with the Patriots.
Super Bowl
NY Giants vs. New England
