Anyone who expected to see the Ravens vs. Chargers is probably a little upset right now. But is it any surprise that the two teams with the most playoff experience are the ones who have emerged on top?
Everyone knows the storied history of these two franchises, Brady's Superbowl Rings, Peytons enormous noose he hangs himself with about this time every year. So is there any reason to believe that history won't repeat itself this season? I think so.
First of all, in previous years Peyton Manning had to carry the Colts on his back, hoping to outscore his opponents in order to get a win. This year, the role has been reversed. The Colts horrible run defense has shown signs of life in the playoffs, and the return of Bob Sanders has seemed to turn them from "soft", to hard as a brick wall. Granted the two teams that Indy has played in the playoffs weren't exactly offensive juggernauts, but critics were arguing if the chiefs would get 300 or 400 yards on the ground with Larry Johnson.
Second, Brady doesn't look poised like years past. He tried to give the game to the Chargers last Sunday. Kevin Hench comments on Brady's latest playoff performance:
Not only did Brady throw three picks directly to San Diego defenders — a fourth pick was dropped — but he also overthrew an open Jabar Gaffney on what would have been a TD and missed a wide-open Ben Watson by 10 yards on another. On Brady's second pick, he under threw Troy Brown by 15 yards. Brady may have found a way to get it done at the end, but the uncharacteristic throws have fans in New England wondering and whispering about the health of their hero's shoulder.
Lastly, the Colts have Vinatieri. Not only money in the playoffs, he is a machine in the RCA Dome. Vinatieri 26 for 26 in the RCA Dome for his career. All the Colts have to do is move the ball 45 yards and they come away with 3 points.
Despite all my speculation, Belichick and Brady are sure to make it a hell of a game, but the Colts will win 27-21.
What do you think?
2 comments:
Pats find a way in the PS... LT? really a no-factor and the storied Charger D? Belichek is always a coupla plays ahead. Change the tempo and keep your eyes on the prize. (oh, and change the tempo) Adam V is nicely cancelled by the Pats new boy on the block. Payton is a force and deserves a better fate, but a creative, talented and diciplined Pats team will keep the Colts off balance. Final: Pats 27 Colts 21
Belichick and Brandy are always money in the playoffs, but well see if homefield is any help for the Colts.
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