NFL Predictions: Divisional Weekend

Things learned last week: Cardinals are perpetual "David's," the Cowboys' curse is bunk and you can disregard the last two statements because apparently I don't understand NFC games at all--though was perfect on the AFC side.

Baltimore at Indianapolis
The Colts arguably have more to prove than anybody in the playoffs after basically throwing their last two games, spitting at their chances of an undefeated season. By now, Peyton and the others have had nearly 4 weeks off and I am one to argue that is too much. Conversely, the Ravens beat up on a wounded Patriots team (no small feat) last week. Still...during the regular season the Ravens played 7 games against playoff teams and lost 6 of them. I think the Ravens will be back in this position next year, and I like their chances better next year. Indianapolis can't lose this early without murderous consequences. The Colts win.

Arizona at New Orleans
The Cardinals were the best NFC team in the playoffs last year and the Saints were the best NFC team in the regular season this year. When I imagine the Cardinals walking into the Superbowl and upsetting the Saints, I also imagine Al Davis showing up at my doorstep and presenting me with a nine-million dollar check to sit on the Raiders' bench. This is just a circuitous way of saying the Cardinals need some irregularities to win this game. And while many Saints' games have irregularities, they usually look like the work of God inexplicably and unprecedentedly blessing New Orleans. Saints win.

New York (Jets) at San Diego
I feel more confident about this game than any other game this weekend. The Chargers can't remember the last time they lost and they've made notably runs to the Superbowl every year, always falling just short. The Chargers have home field, (only) one week bye and most importantly: more talent. L.T. is going to force New York safeties into the box and Rivers will play keep away from the secondary in the second half. Coined term for the game: Jet Lag. Chargers win.

Dallas at Minnesota
Okay, so I went against a lot of early season predictions and said neither the Cowboys nor the Vikings would make the NFC championship despite their star-studded rosters--still rumors at this point. So I'm going to be half-genius and half-idiot no matter what here. Perhaps out of personal vendettas more than any actual observing, I still feel Dallas' success is balancing on toothpicks. Likewise, the Vikings have crashed 3 of their last 4 games. What it comes down to is who would I personally prefer to see in the NFC championship, or more theatrically, the Superbowl? Tough decision when I don't have faith in either. Vikings win.