NFL Divisional Round Day 1

Last week I didn't do too well picking games. I was only 1-3 for spreads and 2-2 picking outright winners. These next two days are what most people refer to as the best weekend of football. Therefore, I am hoping for a lot of good games and upsets, while also getting my picks correct. Onto the picks...

Patriots 24, Ravens 20 --- BAL +7 Unfortunately for me I have to endure yet another year of watching my two most hated teams play each other in the playoffs. The good thing though is that at least this is not the AFC Championship. Anyways, while it obviously stinks that the Steelers got eliminated last weekend I think the only team in the AFC standing in the way of the Patriots trip to another Super Bowl is the Ravens. If the Pats win today they can book their tickets to Phoenix because the Broncos or the Colts are not winning in Foxboro next weekend.
The key to this game is the Ravens defense. Last week they were able to sack Big Ben five times, which had actually been one of the Steelers strengths this season. If the Ravens can create pressure on Lord Brady, who got sacked the fourth fewest times in the NFL, the Patriots offense may struggle just enough. Stopping the Gronk is also going to be a huge factor but rookie C.J. Mosley might be up to the task.
I think this game will be close but in the end I think the Patriots pull out the victory and advance to the AFC Championship where they will steamroll either Peyton or Andrew Luck.

P.S. I'm not sure if there is a prop bet for will Brandon Browner commit a pass interference penalty on a patented Joe FLACCCCOOOO Fling it up and pray for P.I., but I would bet my life that it will happen.

Seahawks 20, Panthers 9 --- CAR +11.5 The Panthers might get run out of the building in this game if the Seahawks start strong and build an early lead. However, if the Panthers don't turn the ball over and possibly force one turnover they could stay in the game. Last week the Panthers defense received no credit for holding the Cardinals offense to a measly 78 yards. Maybe they don't deserve much credit because the Cardinals are that terrible with Ryan Lindley, but 78 yards allowed is good no matter who you play.
The Seahawks should win this game because they are the better team but I'll take the Panthers with the points and hope they are competitive.


Enjoy the games people.