AJ Lee and the Divas Championship

In a Divas Division that is barely showcased on TV, females that have no originality and little wrestling ability, and matches that don't even get to 5 minutes, AJ Lee is definitely a breath of fresh air. Let's run through it.


Originality: Check. She's got her own style which gives her a cool factor and makes her likable whether she's a heel or a face.

In-ring ability: Check. She's one of the best female wrestlers on the WWE roster at this moment in my opinion.

Good mic skills: Check. Her promo with Stephanie McMahon a few months ago, and the way she buried the Divas roster that one RAW should say it all. She needs to cut down on that "crazy" thing. It needs to be more of an on/off thing rather than some strange tick.

Over as a heel/face: Check. She's probably the only Diva that gets a pop.

Looks: She's definitely a cutie. I don't think anybody can dispute that.


Plus, she's dating CM Punk (rumored.) Only flaw with her character, is her theme music. They have got to give her better music. What happened to the days when female wrestlers had rock music, or hip-hop as their themes and not stupidly generic pop music? I'm not sure if she's still skipping to the ring, or not, but if she is, she needs to stop.

But what is she missing? For starters, more exposure. Backstage promos, media appearances, longer matches, and consistent interaction with other Divas in the back. A heel Champion should play off their dominance over the rest of the roster since they're holding the top Championship of that Division. Gives her more Heat as a heel.

What else? A good feud with a person of equal mic work, style, and presence. I haven't been watching much NXT, but what I have heard are the two female wrestlers down there lighting it up.


Paige:

Paige is the exact opposite of all the Divas in the WWE. Her moniker is the "Anti-Diva" meaning she's in it for the wrestling and the right to be the Champion. She's not there to be a cover girl, or model trotting looking pretty for the cameras.

Basically, it's what they're trying to do with AJ, except Paige is doing is much better. She's younger, a better, more physical in-ring worker, got a great, dark style plus she's got a sweet accent.



Emma:

Emma on the other hand is silly, funny, cute, literally a bubbly personality (her entrance includes bubbles), but her in-ring work speaks for itself and is solid when it comes to promos.



You give any one of them to AJ and book it the right way, you've got some magic. Especially with Paige. Paige is a darker version of the Anti-Diva character AJ is portraying. I believe she's better than AJ on the mic and in the ring. Imagine the kind of feud these two can have.

How would I do it? Have Paige debut and attack AJ (if she's still with Tamina, I'd end that partnership), ending with her holding up the Divas Title. The next week, Paige comes out, introduces herself to the audience, and says she's been watching AJ for some time now. From then on, she runs her down for being a sham of an Anti-Diva and how Paige is everything she's not. She's the true Anti-Diva. Not there to make friends, look pretty for the cameras, etc. She's there to wrestle, win the Divas Championship and save the Division from itself. AJ comes out and attacks her and both women have to get pulled apart.

Right off the bat, you've established that Paige is a heel, the fans love AJ, so she can make the instant transition from heel to face, you've established a personal conflict and what the Divas Championship means. What I wrote isn't exactly perfect, but honestly, the story writes itself.

If it was up to me, it'd Paige challenging AJ for the Divas Championship at WrestleMania. An Anti-Diva vs an even darker Anti-Diva.

Both of these women can put on a good match, and if booked right, a feud with characters like this can ignite interest back into the Divas Division. The Divas Division hasn't been interesting since Trish feuded with Mickie James all the way back in 2006. Divas today have no flavor, no personality, aren't good wrestlers or talkers, the booking is horrid, and matches are short.

I don't know when they're bringing in Paige or Emma to the main roster, and even if they do, they won't have AJ drop the belt to either one so soon. If AJ does lose the belt, it'd be absolutely random. Natalya should be the one to take the belt off her. She's the best wrestler they've got, and is barely on TV, and when she is, gets jobbed out.

But it comes down to the booking. AJ has been holding the Divas Championship since June, but let's be honest, how many times has she actually defended it? Her title reign is flawed, inconsistent, and a sham. It's not on AJ, it's the booking. How can one be a fighting Champion if they have barely defended the title they're holding?


Just my two cents.


Here are some links to some Paige promos and a few matches between Paige and Emma. Feel free to check them out and broaden your horizons.



Paige Promo:

http://www.dailymotion.com/video/x10oees_paige-nxt-promo-06-06-2012_sport



Paige vs Emma Matches:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DAp-_FTJzu0


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUHVjujz4ZI



Paige & Emma Promo:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0Z3TBX9Llg




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By Gerald "Showstopper" Prophete

Super Bowl 48 XVLIII Predictions

The Biggest game of the season and this will be my boldest prediction yet made. The Seattle Seahawks will beat the Peyton Manning lead Broncos in Super Bowl XLVIII 27-24. The MVP will be Richard Sherman due mostly to his mouth campaigning prior to the game but will also include a pick six! You know Peyton Manning might not get into a verbal sparing match with Sherman but the sheriff will surely take a shot or two in his direction and that will be the wrong thing to do. Sherman's 20 picks since 2011 is enough to lead the NFL.

This is the Super Bowl and clearly it took more than one player to get here. How about five different Denver players with ten or more touchdowns in the same season (first time in NFL history) but Seattle's defense comes in with the number one overall ranked defense and  DEFENSE wins championships! Here is a nugget from ESPN stats and info (This is the 16th time that the defense that allowed the fewest points in the NFL has made the Super Bowl since the merger. The previous 15 teams went 12-3 in those Super Bowls.)

With all that useful information now digested, my heart is leaning with Peyton and his legacy but my football IQ is taking the Seahawks. I have seen Peyton break every regular season passing record, yet we know how the story ends with us confused and shocked that Peyton let another title run get away. 

In the year when the NFL really enforced the new defenseless receiver rules and basically any rule favoring the offense it will be great to see a DEFENSE win the title!   

Seahawks 27-24


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By BigMouf Sports

Super Bowl XLVIII

The time is finally here. This Sunday, we're going to find out which team is the best team in the NFL. The Denver Broncos, #1 in points and total yards go up against the Seattle Seahawks, #1 in points and yards allowed.


This is THE battle of Offense vs Defense. Peyton Manning, the leader this season in TD's and Passing yards against the best defense in these playoffs. How do they stack up against each other?

Here's what I'm saying, I don't think the Seahawks have enough defense to stop the Broncos offense. You can bring up the Saints game and how they shut down Brees in the first half, but this is a different Beast of a team. Not only do the Broncos have a better passing attack, but they have a solid running game as well. The one flaw with Seattle's defense in these playoffs has been the ability to stop the run. They gave up 161 against San Francisco and 130 to Kaepernick alone. Seattle's defense is built to contain the pass, but they are vulnerable against the run.

But what has really surprised me is Denver's defense. Throughout the whole season, their achilles heel was their secondary and they have come out in these playoffs and shut it down. The San Diego offense that was so dangerous throughout the regular season was shut out through 3 Quarters. Tom Brady and the running game that had what, 4-5 TD's on the Colts, was quieted down. That Denver defense has definitely surprised while the Seahawks offense has been underwhelming.

And that brings me to Russell Wilson. There've been a lot of people retracting statements about how good they thought Russell Wilson was. He has definitely regressed towards the end of the season.

In his first 12 games: 198 completions, 305 attempts, 64.9 completion%, 22 TD's, 6 INT's, 108.5 QBR

Last 5 games: 68 completions, 120 attempts, 56.7 completion%, 4 TD's, 3 INT's, 77.4 QBR

Since that New Orleans regular season game and on, he hasn't played to how well he was throughout the first half of the season which is understandable for a young QB. He's backed by an elite defense. He went 9-18 for 103 yards against the Saints, but against San Francisco, he went 16-25 for 215 yards. His defense has pretty much won both games for him as Seattle depended on some big plays and turnovers to get into scoring position: That TD Bomb on 4th Down, that kick return right after the 49ers TD, Lynch's 40+ yard run. They can't maintain a consistent drive from what I've seen. It could be due to the lack of weapons, but I think it's a lack of play calling. The QB is not devoid of blame either.

I'm not saying Wilson is bad. He's still a good QB with a strong arm and smooth ball release. He needs to get his running under control as he tends to run wildly within the pocket and lose a lot of yards. And he needs to get the ball out of his hands quicker and be more accurate. In these 2 playoff games, he's missed a lot of throws, his timing and mechanics seem to be off. Look what Denver's defense did to Brady and Rivers. Wilson's O-Line is healthy, but Denver pass rush has played well at getting to the QB and bottling up the run. Wilson will have to adjust to the pressure, but I don't think the Denver Frontline will completely shut down Beast Mode, but it'll be a big test for them. They haven't allowed over 100, hell even close to 90 yards, on the ground in these playoffs.

Peyton Manning is probably the smartest QB of all time. He can read a defense in a second, audible, make changes at the line, step up and fire against the blitz, etc. Basically, he was so smart, there were times where he knew what the defense was going to do with one look. He knew exactly where the ball was going and who it was going to. Seattle's secondary will have its hands full. Can they cover Decker, Demaryius, Welker, Julius, Tamme, Moreno, etc? Denver has too much offense. I'm almost certain Seattle's defense will get exposed. They play tight pass coverage, but unlike The Saints, the Broncos offense is more physical than finesse. I believe Seattle will take away the screen game and contain the big play, but can they stop Denver in those bunch formations, the pick plays, the crossing routes, slants, etc. How well are their coverage skills when it comes to that?

Also, history shows that Peyton Manning has performed well against a #1 ranked defense, or more to the point, a #1 ranked pass defense. If Peyton has a sub par 1st half, you better believe he'll make the adjustments and come out on fire in the 2nd half. Kansas City, for the 1st half of the season, was #1 in almost every single defensive category. What happened when they went up against Peyton Manning? Peyton had 383 yards and a TD on them.

I can't wait to see this game. The #1 seed in the AFC vs The #1 seed in the NFC. The perfect battle of Offense vs Defense. Both teams are physical, but when it comes down it, I'm going with the Broncos. Seattle's played some good passing teams, but they have not faced a team, a passing attack like this. These Broncos are quite possibly the greatest offense in NFL History. The Seattle Seahawks are one of the best defenses in quite some time. But there will be no 12th man in Metlife. Peyton Manning is walking in with a ton of ammo on this one, and I don't think the Seahawks defense can contain it. It'll be a close game, but I'll be honest, it would not shock me in the least if The Broncos blow them out.

Also, people are saying this game is a make or break game for Manning. As far as I'm concerned, Manning is already the Greatest QB ever to play, in my opinion. His smartness, his reads, playing style, ball placement, etc. Rings are not THE deciding factor in determining a QB's greatness. If they were, Terry Bradshaw and Troy Aikman would make Top 5 lists instead of guys like Dan Marino, Brett Favre, or John Elway. Players don't win it on their own, it's a TEAM achievement. Win or lose, this game won't change my opinion of Peyton Manning. Winning this ring will be a notch in his belt to cap off the greatest season for a QB.


I got the Broncos winning 31-20.



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By Gerald "Showstopper" Prophete

CM Punk Quits WWE

This is not a lie. This is not a fabricated story. Check Bleacher Report, check CBS Local, check any wrestling website that reports any sort of wrestling news, this is the real deal. CM Punk pulled a Stone Cold, and basically took his ball and went home. He straight up told Vince McMahon, "I'm going home."

CM Punk, the man who -- up until the Daniel Bryan craze -- was arguably THE most popular superstar in quite some time. He debuted in 2006, and held the WWE Championship for a year in 2011. The only problem is that his title reign was mostly in the mid card, while John Cena was taking the Main Event spots.

This is what I mean. You have a somewhat young talent like CM Punk that lit the world on fire with his promo back in 2011, you give him the WWE Championship for 1 year, but WWE didn't want to run with him as the man closing out each show. He was put in the middle of the show while John Cena main evented most of the pay-per-views. CM Punk was quite possibly the best talker on the mic in this PG Era and one of the only bright spots.

But I'm not going to bash Punk on this one. He was starting to get buried. Anybody with eyes could see that. You could even see it in his face. His promos were getting dull and lacking the same energy they used to, he looked he was just going through the motions at this point. It was honestly a matter of time. CM Punk knew what was going on. He knew what time it was. If I was getting the burial treatment when the man should still be in the Main Event scene over guys like Cena, Batista, and Orton, I'd pack up my bags and head out too.

This is an example of WWE keeping down popular superstars that people want to see and sticking people that we don't want to see in the main event spot. It's ridiculous. Unlike some people, I didn't hop on the CM Punk bandwagon in 2011, I was a fan of the man when first debuted in WWE's ECW program. Great talker & in ring worker, related to a lot of the fans, had his own style, etc. That's why he was so popular. He was "cool" and people loved him. But no, let's give him the company's Top Championship, put him in the middle of the show, and push people who's time was clearly up years ago.

I can tell he was getting frustrated at the amount of part-timers WWE had to bring back and the fact they were put in the Main Event scene right away. That's partly WWE's fault for not pushing their young guys properly. If they booked them right away and gave these guys pushes, they wouldn't have to bring back The Rock, Undertaker, Lesnar, Batista, etc. to get more people to watch. They are too dependent on the past and aren't spending enough time building for the future.

I'm not mad at you CM Punk. You do your thing. WWE severely misused this guy, didn't want to take a chance with him as the face of the WWE, and once he lost the belt, the burial process started. Now, he's gone. I don't know if he's gone for good, or if he's taking a vacation. I hope he's gone for good. WWE really doesn't deserve a talent like this guy.


Just my two cents.



Feel free to Comment.



By Gerald "Showstopper" Prophete

The Battle For New York

It's not the battle for New York like many NBA Experts predicted but nonetheless, the battle for New York will continue on January 20th, Martin Luther King Day.

It's ironic that one that on the day The Great Dr. Martin Luther King was born -- the man that once had a dream of equality for us all -- we Knicks fans get to watch a group of selfish men attempt to look like a team and try to get a win against the suddenly hot Nets team who have 7 out of their last 10 games.

This situation is actually really surprising, yet really interesting. Jason Kidd, a 1st year Coach with zero experience has gotten his team to believe in him and each other. Meanwhile, the veteran Knicks Coach, Mike Woodson, has yet to get his players to buy into his message of playing with effort, heart, and basketball fundamentals. 

Coach Woodson is a defensive minded Coach which would be great if he had respect from his players. The NBA had to step in and fine JR Smith $50,000 before Woodson decided he had enough of JR Smith's antics. If Woodson can't control a player that comes off the bench, can he really control the entire team?

With the Knicks being 15-25, the answer is NO! So, on MLK Day, there is a dream to be realized for both New York teams. The questions is, which one will realize this year has turned into a nightmare?!

By Big Mouf

AFC/NFC Championship Sunday Predictions

Championship Sunday. One of the greatest Sundays in Sports. After this Sunday, we'll know who's going to be in the Super Bowl. We've got the two future Hall of Fame QB's going at it for the 4th time in the playoffs and we've not 2 young QB's backed by elite defenses playing in the most hostile environment. What more could ask for?

AFC Championship Game, 3 p.m., CBS

New England Patriots @ Denver Broncos

You've probably heard a lot about things this week about how Tom Brady is 10-4 vs Peyton Manning, including 2-1 in the playoffs. You've probably heard how much better Tom Brady is than Peyton Manning and all this other noise. I've said this countless times, and even in the Brady vs Manning blog post I did earlier. Brady had the better teams around him, Peyton never had a consistent running game, or a defense that caused turnovers and made big stops when it had to be done. Brady has. His defenses were stacked and his running game was consistent. All this talk about how Brady does more with less, and how Peyton has consistently had star receivers. Did you ever think that Peyton made the talent he has around him. If he brings Denver to the Super Bowl, that'd be 2 different teams he brought to the Super Bowl which is a detriment to how good he really is. Don't take this as me bashing on Brady. Again, I've got Brady in my Top 5-10 QB's of all time, but he gets way overhyped and too much of the credit when he doesn't deserve it. That's my two cents, so let me get to the game.

The only concern the Patriots should have on offense is that they have no consistent deep threat. They run those constant out routes, slant patterns and they love to work the middle with Edleman and Amendola, but they have no legit deep threat. Dobson and Thompkins aren't consistent enough. Their running game will play a big part on how this game goes. If their running game does as well as they did  against the Colts, it'll be hard for Denver to compete. But I think Denver will keep the Patriots running game in check. Blount is a physical running game, but you can't expect him to do what he did against the Colts again against a better rushing defense like Denver, and I don't expect him to. I think most of the game will be in Tom Brady's hands and how he works the middle and those out routes and throwing bullets for his receivers and moving the football on Denver's defense. Edleman has been their best receiver in efficient route running and yards after the catch. He'll need to have a big game for the Patriots to pull this one out.

Moving to Denver, part of what won the San Diego was their defense. A major weakness for Denver all season long was their pass rush and getting consistent pressure. Their defense showed up against San Diego, but New England's offensive line is a little better than that. I think it'll be harder for Denver to get consistent pressure on Brady. Both teams have come a long way since that Week 12 game where that Patriots offense got overwhelmed by Denver's defense leading to a quick 24-0 lead for the Broncos. Speaking of that game, Denver rushed for over 200 yards back in that game. I'm not saying Moreno will have 200 yards again, but Denver's running game will be key in moving the football, adding those yards up, and those short yardage plays. What should worry Denver on offense is dropped passes. Denver's receivers are good at getting open and running routes, but they can't hold onto the ball. Decker and Welker dropped TD passes in the San Diego game that could've put the game away long, long ago. Holding onto the ball will be crucial when it comes down to late game situations and coming up clutch.

What is going to be important is how Peyton performs against this defense. His pre snap reads have to be on point. There are times where just takes a glance over the defense and automatically knows what they're doing and how to beat it. His receivers need to hold onto the ball. If Denver will want to consistently move the football, when Peyton delivers the ball, these guys need to hold onto it. I think Denver will have trouble defending these plays over the middle, covering those slant patterns and out routes. Denver wins if that defense shows up, gets consistent pressure and forces turnovers. The Patriots win taking advantage of match ups on Denver's secondary and running the football effectively.

Brady may have a winning record against Manning, but he has a losing record against the Broncos (5-6) and 3-10 on the road against winning opponents since 2009. The last time Brady was in the AFC Championship on the ROAD, he played Peyton Manning and he LOST that game. Interesting enough, the winner of the Brady/Manning playoff games have gone on to win the Super Bowl. It's going to be great game. Can't wait to see it.

Prediction: Broncos defeat Patriots

NFC Championship Game, 6:30 p.m., FOX

San Francisco 49ers @ Seattle Seahawks

For the 2nd year in a row, I've discounted the 49ers and picked against them throughout the playoffs and they have proven me wrong. That defense has been extraordinary during these playoffs. Containing Aaron Rodgers at Home, and shutting down Carolina. Carolina scored 10 points in the 1st half, never scored again. Kaepernick has played well, but the strength of this team comes from their defensive capabilities. 

The Niners are a run heavy team, with Kaepernick running the read and Gore back there. The Niners, in these playoffs, have averaged 146.5 yards on the ground, but are 7th in passing yards. And this is why I've discounted the Niners; I just don't trust their passing game. Kaepernick is not a pure pocket passer. He's got a great arm, but he's inaccurate and can make some pretty wild throws. He thrives on running the ball and setting up the pass. Seattle's defense is out of this world and I don't see Kaepernick running wild out of the pocket for big chunks of yardage. He'll hard to stop on 3rd and short, but for the most part, this game will come down to whether or not he can make consistent throws from the pocket and with Boldin out there, he won't have to do much work. Boldin's gonna be the most physical receiver on the field Sunday. He can get physical with the Seahawks secondary and come down with the football and make plays. Crabtree will attract attention, but for the most part, I don't see him exploding for a big game. His presence alone will be troublesome, but I think Crabtree will be kept in check and Kaepernick and Boldin need to be on the same page like they were against Carolina. If they get it going like that, their passing attack will be hard to stop. But it's their defense is what will decide the game. They've done a great job getting pressure, containing the run, and not giving up the big play. They'll have to do all of this to stop Seattle. Follow Arizona's formula; consistent pressure on Wilson, jamming receivers, tight coverage, and denying separation and shut down that offense.

Speaking of defense, we all know how elite Seattle's defense is, especially on their Homefield. Look at how they kept the Saints offense contained throughout that game. They pretty much held them to 8 points, with that 7 coming in garbage time. The key to this game will be Marshawn Lynch running the football well and going off. Seattle has to win the turnover battle against San Francisco. Against New Orleans, they caused turnovers, got great field position and easy scoring opportunities. I think people are discounting Russell Wilson in this game. Difference between him and Kaepernick, is that Wilson is a better pocket passer. He can stand and deliver the football. He'll have to make plays with his feet, because that Niners pass rush will get to him and when they do, he'll have to extend the play with his feet and move the football. The Seattle secondary are physical, and hard-hitting machines and will have to contain the 49ers receivers. Another good thing Seattle did against the Saints was not give up the big play. If they can do that against a passing attack like the Saints, I'm sure they can do that against San Francisco.

Running the ball will be crucial for both teams. Lynch ran the ball well against New Orleans and will have to ball out against San Francisco's tough defensive line and linebacking core. I trust Russell Wilson a little more delivering the football and making accurate throws over Kaepernick. Kaepernick, however, is lucky to have a receiver that can go up and get the ball like Boldin. Both defenses will have to come strong as well. At Home, Seattle's defensive energy will be too much and the Niners are going to struggle to move the ball early on. I think Seattle's defense will get consistent pressure, get into good field position and get easy scoring opportunities. People really underestimate Seattle at Home ever since the Cardinals beat them. Kaepernick is 0-2 in Seattle, both games were blowouts. I could see this being a close game, but it wouldn't shock me if Seattle is up by double digits at the half. I picked Denver and Seattle to meet in the Super Bowl at the beginning of the season, that's what I'm staying with.

Prediction: Seahawks defeat 49ers

Arguably the 4 best teams in the playoffs made it to their respective Conference Championship Games. We're going to find out who the best team is, and which team came prepared with the better game plan. We're going to find out who's going to Super Bowl. I hope you're as excited as I am.

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By: Gerald "Showstopper" Prophete

NFL Divisional Round

Ok, I didn't do too good with the Wild Card picks (1-3), even though two of them could've easily gone the other way. But I put too much stock in the fact that the Saints had 0 wins in road playoff games and the fact that Green Bay had the Homefield advantage.

But this time, it's Divisional Weekend. Chock full of 3 rematches from the regular season and another Colts/Patriots matchup, this time featuring Tom Brady vs Andrew Luck. 

4 great games to go through. Let's dive right in!

New Orleans Saints @ Seattle Seahawks

Saturday, 4:35 p.m., FOX

The last two meetings between these two teams didn't end very well for the Saints. They were one and done out of the playoffs by a 7-9 Seattle team, and then there's the Monday Night game where Seattle absolutely obliterated New Orleans 34-7. The reason being is that Seattle is physical and New Orleans is more finesse, and physicality beats out finesse every single time. This time around the Saints are people's favorite to knock out Seattle. Because let's be honest. The #1 seed in the NFC hasn't been very lucky in the last few seasons. Over the last 6 seasons in the playoffs, the #1 seed in the NFC has been one-and-done 4 out those 6 times. The teams to avoid that fate were the Saints in 2009 and the Falcons last season. Also, the #1 seed is 2-5 against the #6 seed in the last 7 seasons.

But let's get to the game. In my opinion, the only way New Orleans can win this game is to control the clock and run the ball extremely well controlling the line of scrimmage. The noise is going be a HUGE factor because it's distracting and messes with the play calling, but if the Saints can control the clock, run the ball and keep Seattle's offense on the bench, they have a shot at winning. The Seahawks have the #1 ranked defense in total yards allowed and against the pass, and they have a #7 ranked rush defense. All across the board, Seattle is physical, hard hitting, great rushing the passer, disrupting rhythm, and defending the pass. They haven't allowed a lot of big plays this season, but the Saints are on a mission. They need to get the running game going like they did against Philly and control the clock. I'm not so sure it's a good idea to attack the air early and often. Establish the running game with Ingram, get Sproles involved in the screen game and impose your will early.

The Saints defense did a good job against the Eagles offense, but this Seattle offense is another beast. The Seahawks offense is averaging almost 30 points per game at Home. Their offense finds ways to put up the points. Russell Wilson is dynamic with his play making ability, his ball release is smooth and gets better each game, and he's so good at finding the open man and throwing on the run. The kid is talented on so many levels. The Saints have the #5 ranked defense, but the last time these teams played, the Seahawks offense made it look easy. Not so sure, it'll be easy this time around. What I don't trust is can Seattle's offense be consistent. They've got the weapons on offense; Kearse has stepped in as a viable deep threat since Rice went down, Miller, Tate, Percy Harvin has been rumored to return, and of course Marshawn Lynch. They need to establish a rhythm early. They can keep stalling, or going 3 & Out. Once the Saints get the momentum, it'll be damn near impossible to get it back.

I don't think it'll be a blowout this time around, but I wouldn't be so surprised if a blowout did actually happen. The Saints need to establish the running game. Run the ball well, control the clock, and Brees has to go to work and play mistake free ball and not leave points on the board. The Seahawks have a habit now of starting slow. You can't start slow if the Saints establish a rhythm early or else the game will already be over. Bottom line, the Saints can't go finesse. They need to play physical against an even more physical Seattle Seahawks team. But at the end of the day, the crowd noise will be a factor and I believe Russell Wilson, Marshawn Lynch, and Co. will find a way to get it done. But I'll say this, it's hard to get the best of Sean Payton twice.

Prediction: Seahawks defeat Saints

Indianapolis Colts @ New England Patriots

Saturday, 8:15 p.m., CBS

Such an intriguing game. Once again the Colts and the Patriots meet in the playoffs. This time, it's Andrew Luck vs Tom Brady. There's been a lot said in the media about how Brady didn't even watch the Colts amazing comeback victory over the Chiefs, or that Brady isn't worried about Luck. Well, I'll say this; they should be worried.

They should be worried that the Colts defensive line is furious, physical, and can really rush the passer. They should be worried that the Colts play their best Football when they're playing from behind, and even when the Colts fall behind 14+, the game isn't over until the clock reads 0.

They should be worried that Brady's deep threats are unreliable and the Colts can play single coverage and lock up, while only having to worry about Edleman, and limiting Brady's options makes their passing attack inconsistent.

They should be worried that Luck is a very mobile QB, has a knack for knowing when to run to pick the yardage and making smart plays.

They should be worried that the Colts now have 3 deep threats; Hilton, Rogers, and now Deion Branch. Giving Luck a veteran receiver will be a key addition to making the Colts passing attack tough to stop. 

They should also be worried that the Colts have what it takes to pull off the upset.

The Patriots are going to do what they like to do best. They're going to run those check down plays, those quick slants and out routes to wear down the Colts defense. I'm not too sold on the Pats ability to throw it deep. Thompkins and Dobson have missed a good portion of the season, and will take a while to get back into the swing of things. Even healthy, I'm still not ready to trust Amendola, so it'll be interesting to see him perform. The Patriots have two dangerous weapons; Edleman and Blount. Edleman has been a dangerous weapon in the slot game with his speed and ability to get separation. Blount has been an exceptional power runner hitting those holes, getting physical with defenders and picking up that yardage. The Pats don't have Gronk. If they did, I believe this would be an open and shut case, because as much as I love the Colts, they wouldn't have had an answer to stop him. The Pats offense will literally dink and dunk the Colts defense to death and occasionally work the middle.

I believe the Colts defense can contain this offense. They will need to play physical defense. That bend, don't break mentality isn't going to work against this team up in Foxboro. They need to get physical with the receivers, disrupt Brady's rhythm and force him into bad throws. Likewise with the Pats defense against Luck. At Home, the Pats thrive on that defensive line getting consistent pressure, making the QB make some bad throws, and generating sacks. Their pass defense isn't elite, but the thing about this defense is that when it's time to make a key stop, they step up and make that stop. 

It'll come down to whether or not Luck and the offense can keep up with the Patriots offense. The Colts defense needs to get to Brady often and early because if the Pats just run the ball and dink and dunk them to death, the score will be 14-0 before you can blink. The Colts offense need to establish consistent rhythm and not get into a position where the Pats defense has them reeling. I believe the Colts defense will make those key stops late in the game. I believe the Colts are being severely underlooked heading into this game and will shock the world. I've got the Colts in this one. 

Prediction: Colts defeat Patriots

San Francisco 49ers @ Carolina Panthers

Sunday, 1:05 p.m., FOX

This might be the most physical match of the weekend. The last meeting between these two? A 10-9 victory by Carolina over Kaepernick. You can argue that Crabtree and Davis were injured and that Kaep's poor performance was because of that, but no, Carolina's defense came to play that day and shut down Kaepernick's running ability and only limited him to 91 yards passing. 

From what I've seen and heard, Carolina has been talked about the least. People are saying Carolina's not ready and San Fran is gonna breeze right through them. I think people are underestimating Carolina's defense and especially that offense. Carolina is #2 in opponents points per game (15.1), the #2 ranked defense in the league, and #2 rush defense. Their defensive line is probably the best in the league right behind Seattle, if not, better than Seattle. Their speed off the edge, the way they swarm the ball, and cause turnovers is scary. They had 20 INT's at Home and led the league in sacks with 60. That defense is on another level. It's going to be tough for the Niners to establish the running game, and creating running lanes to get Gore going. The Niners will have to impose their will through the air. Get Crabtree going early because I think he can cause some problems for Carolina's secondary like he did against Green Bay. They need to get Davis going across the middle and do more to get Boldin the ball. He only had 23 yards receiving in the last match. But that offensive line will have to give Kaep the proper time in the pocket. 

Now, we get to what can make or break the game for Carolina; their offense. The Niners defense is ranked #5, #7 against the pass, and #4 against the rush. Will Steve Smith be healthy enough, and how will Ginn, Lafell, and Olsen match up against the physical Niners defense. And then there's Cam. Cam is dangerous in and out of the pocket. Compared to Kaepernick, Cam has more shiftiness and is a better pocket passer than Kaep. It'll be harder for the Niners defense to take down Cam, than it would be for Carolina's defense to contain Kaepernick. Cam's got one hell of an arm. When it comes down to it, I can see Cam making those razor sharp throws, throwing lasers and moving the chains. But how consistent can the offense be? The Niners pass defense has been known to susceptible to the big play ball themselves, but I don't see the Carolina offense being consistent when it comes to ball movement, running the ball, or controlling the clock.

This is going to be a physical low scoring game between two defensive teams. I expect to see multiple defensive stops, 3 & outs, etc. It'll come down to which offense can make that big play to turn the game around. The Niners are 7-2 in their last 9 games, one of those losses coming from the Carolina Panthers. The Panthers defense is more physical, and more hard hitting that San Francisco has been this season. I don't think Kaepernick can consistently produce against this Panthers defense, but I can see Cam doing what Kaep can't; consistently use his feet to make plays outside of the pocket and connect on the throws when they count. Neither team will be able to get a running game going, so it will fall on the shoulders of the defense and both QB's to get it done. I'm taking the more physical squad to take this one. I've got Carolina.

Prediction: Panthers defeat 49ers

San Diego Chargers @ Denver Broncos

Sunday, 4:40 p.m., CBS

Ever since the Chargers won their game, all people have said are how the Chargers are going to play once they get to the AFC Championship. Not if, but when Peyton Manning chokes, how his legacy will be remembered. These people are taking Denver out of the equation before the game has even been played. It's clear the Chargers have a psychological edge over Peyton Manning. The Chargers are 2-0 against Peyton in the playoffs, and then factor in when they went up to Denver and beat them earlier on in the season.

The formula is there to stopping Denver. Control the clock, run the ball, and pressure the hell out of Peyton Manning. This is what San Diego did in their last meeting. Ryan Matthews had a great game running the ball, the Chargers were eating up chunks and chunks of the clock on some drives, keeping Peyton Manning and that offense off the field and they took advantage of the lack of pass defense and made plays to win that game. This is how they have to attack Denver this time around. There's almost no pass rush in Denver and when you give Rivers time in the pocket, he's going to find those receivers because Denver's pass defense isn't very good either. Keenan Allen has to show up and make plays, Green, Woodhead, Gates, Ryan Matthews has to have a big game. Chargers need to wear out the left side of the Denver's defense like they did last time.

But what it really comes down to is whether or not San Diego's defense can stop Peyton Manning. They sure as hell exposed Andy Dalton and made him look like he didn't belong anywhere near a playoff game. They pressured him constantly, Dalton was making bad throws left and right. Denver needs to control the line of scrimmage. They've got to give Peyton Manning time in the pocket. When Peyton has the time, it's easy pickings; Demaryius, Decker, Julius, Tamme, Caldwell, Welker is coming back, and you have Knowshon Moreno running the ball as well as he has been this season. Can San Diego's defense stop the onslaught of Denver's offense? They did last time, but if they really think Denver is going to perform the way they did last time, they're out of luck. They love running pick plays  in those bunch sets to get their guys open. Demaryius is hard to stop one-on-one, Decker has emerged as a dangerous #2 and with Welker back in the slot, he's a tough matchup for anybody.

The San Diego Chargers have a psychological edge and almost everybody is counting on the fact that Peyton Manning will choke and will go one-and-done again. But Peyton Manning is coming off probably the greatest regular season for any QB in the NFL History. I don't think he's ready to go home just yet. I don't like San Diego's chances. Denver's offense is too much for San Diego to handle, but Denver's defense will also have a hard time stopping Rivers if they can't get any consistent pass rush. Regardless of all the negative talk about Denver, that'll only give them enough to use it to their advantage. Broncos move on to host the AFC Championship Game.


Prediction: Broncos defeat Chargers

Enjoy The Games!

By: Gerald "Showstopper" Prophete

The NFL Postseason

Quite possibly the greatest postseason in all of sports is finally here. The 2014 NFL Playoffs begin this Saturday. The Broncos, Patriots, Seahawks, and Panthers await their opponents as Wild Card Weekend kicks off with 4 great games!

Kansas City Chiefs @ Indianapolis Colts

Saturday, 4:35 p.m., NBC

The Kansas City Chiefs are clearly not the same team that started the season 9-0 by playing fantastic defense and playing mistake free ball on offense. But since their first run in with Peyton Manning, The Chiefs have been #6 in points per game, but are still Top 5 opponents points per game. I'm looking back to the last meeting just a couple weeks ago when the Colts blew Kansas City out of their stadium, even though Jamaal Charles still had 100 yards rushing and the lone TD for the Chiefs. The Colts defense came up big. Their pass rush was relentless, they played the pass so well, and they were efficient on offense. And now, the Chiefs put their great season on the line, on the road to Indianapolis. 

Lucas Oil, very quietly, has become a tough place to play. The Colts defensive energy is through the roof. They'll be on their game. What it comes down to is which defense shows up. Alex Smith only had 153 yards in their last meeting. The Colts pass rush has gradually gotten better with each passing game led by Mathis and if they bring consistent pressure and defend the pass as well as they did in their last meeting, the Colts should have this one easy. The Chiefs get Justin Houston back and the pass rush will  be as good as it was in the beginning of the season, and I'm sure we all know how poor the Colts Offensive line is. If that Chiefs pass rush is consistent, then Luck will be on his back the whole game and incapable of producing some offense.

Speaking of offense, how will both offenses fare? Alex Smith is underrated in my eyes. He's become more mobile, he makes good throws, and plays not to lose. But that Colts pass defense shut him down last meeting. The offense can't run just through Jamaal Charles. Smith needs to take more chances and get the ball to Bowe early and often. I don't see the Colts defense shutting him down this time. He'll make his throws, but it'll be up to the Colts defense to bend, and not break. If Luck's offensive line can keep him upright, he can spread the ball around. Hilton and Fleener are already main targets, Donald Brown has been a very effective back, but it'll be interesting to see how they implement the rookies (Whalen, Rogers, Brazil) into the game plan. I've been impressed with Whalen, and I can see him having a big game if KC comes prepared and attempts to contain Hilton's big play ability. 

A LOT of people are sleeping on the Colts. I'm not too sure I can trust Kansas City's offense to be consistent in ball production against this sort of pass defense that plays 10x as good in front of their home crowd. The Colts offense have struggled to find their stride, but I believe they've found it. At Home, I don't think the Colts lose this one. This is where the Chiefs get off.

Prediction: Colts defeat Chiefs

New Orleans Saints @ Philadelphia Eagles

Saturday, 8:10 p.m., NBC

A very interesting game indeed. You have the Saints, a team that was close to having a 1st round bye, find themselves at the #6 seed and you have the Eagles; a team that started slow and have turned into an impressive offensive unit. Nobody is doubting the Saints ability to put up points and move the ball, spread the field, etc. But the Eagles defense has been playing very well, making stops, generating pressure, and causing turnovers.

The Saints defense has played well this season, they have been exposed on a number of occasions. The Saints need to control the line of scrimmage. Get to Foles, pressure him, make him uncomfortable in the pocket and force him into bad throws and disrupt the overall offensive rhythm. If there's no pressure, Foles will connect with those weapons. Desean, Cooper, Celek, and even the rookie Ertz has come alive. Not to mention, if they can't stop Lesean McCoy, the game is already over. But as solid as the Saints pass rush has been, it'll be interesting to see.

The Saints offense is clearly a passing attack. Their running game has flashes of brilliance, but they're a pass first team that loves to get their backs involved in dump offs and screen plays. The Saints are probably the best team in the league at running those screen passes. They love to work the middle of the field and with all those weapons, it'll be hard for the Eagles secondary to matchup against Colston, and they can try to contain Jimmy Graham. The whole offense is a tough matchup. But, taking a page from St. Louis, and Carolina, bring the pressure, get to Brees, shut down those screen plays, and make Brees hold onto the ball longer than he has to. Brees will get his yards and the Saints will get their points. The Eagles secondary isn't at Seattle level. 

The Eagles are pretty much one of, if not, the hottest teams coming into these playoffs. Playing at Home behind an offense that's averaging 27.6 points per game and defense that's gotten better week after week. The Saints are a completely different team outside of their Dome. Brees is 0-3 in road playoff games. The Saints at Home, 34.0 points per game, on the road….17.8. I'm not saying the Eagles are a better team, but the Saints are not the offensive juggernaut away from Home. I'll take the Home team.

Prediction: Eagles defeat Saints

San Diego Chargers @ Cincinnati Bengals

Sunday, 1:05 p.m., CBS

The Bengals, for some reason, haven't convinced anybody that they're legit contenders, but San Diego almost got beat by Kansas City's second string. But seriously, earlier in the season, the Bengals held the Chargers to a season low 10 points in their own stadium. The Bengals are a team that, even though lost its 2 best defensive players, are still ranked #3 in total defense. 

The Chargers offense is scary, not going to lie. Ryan Matthews has run the ball very well this season, following his blockers, picking up those tough yards, etc. Then we've got Rivers and Co. Rivers still leads the league in completion% and is still playing at a high level. Keenan Allen has become a major threat offensively, not to mention how they use Woodhead in the slot game and Gates as a viable clutch option. So many weapons on that offense and if there's no consistent pass rush, Rivers will pick apart the defense and find those receivers and make the big plays.

But here's the thing, as much flack as people give Dalton and that offense, people ignore the main reason, the Bengals are undefeated at Home…. that Defense. They average almost 3 turnovers per game. They had 3 against Baltimore, remember the 31 points they scored in a quarter against Cleveland? I could go on. The offense may not produce as well, but the way that defense plays at Home is scary. Their pass rush and ability to force turnovers is hard to compete against. It's what they do. Dalton threw 4 picks last Sunday and Cincy still won by double digits. San Diego has a habit of being all about offense, but coming up short on the defensive side of the ball. Dalton has AJ, Jones, Sanu, Gresham, Eifert, etc. but that offense needs to be more consistent. If San Diego ends up throwing all over Cincy and goes up by double digits, can Dalton lead that offense back?

The Chargers are going to struggle moving the ball early. Cincy's defense is extremely strong at Home. San Diego's offense may be hot and if this was in San Diego, I'd give it to the Chargers. But the Bengals are undefeated in The Jungle. That crowd and that defense, will be too much for Rivers to handle. I actually expect Dalton to produce and quiet down some of his critics. I take the Bengals to win this one and for Marvin Lewis to FINALLY get that first playoff win. 5th time has to be the charm, right?

Prediction: Bengals defeat Chargers

 

San Francisco 49ers @ Green Bay Packers

Sunday, 4:40 p.m., FOX

I had to think long and hard about this one. Two great teams going at it in Lambeau Field. The Niners have the defense, and the Packers have the offense. When these teams met in Week 1, Kaepernick had 412 yards passing. I really don't think that'll happen again, I'm not even factoring in the weather because both of these teams are capable of playing in this weather.

I'm a fan of Kaepernick, no doubt. Last season, he snuck up on a lot of teams. This season….not so much. He's been exposed quite a bit. Take the Carolina game for example. Kaepernick is a decent pocket passer with a great arm. His running and ability to make plays outside the pocket is what makes him so dangerous. If you pressure him, take away his ability to run and make plays outside the pocket with his feet and make him beat you from the pocket, I don't think it can be done. Carolina held him to 91 yards passing. Green Bay doesn't have the kind of defense Carolina has, but I'm sure they've addressed this in practice and know that if he can't beat you from the pocket, he'll do it with his legs. Remember the playoff game from last season when Kaep had 181 yards rushing? Does Green Bay have the defense to contain Kaep and that offense. Boldin has become a clutch, big time receiver. If Boldin gets taken out of the offense, Kaep has to look to Vernon, Crabtree, etc. to carry the load.

Green Bay has Aaron Rodgers back and we saw just how much he changes the Packers offense. Rodgers can throw people open, has some great zip on the balls he throws, and is accurate on the run. Now, he's got Jordy and Cobb back and that offense is dangerous. Not to mention, Lacy is running like a tank out there. The Packers will need to come up with ways to get Lacy involved to make a dent in San Fran's 4th ranked rush defense. The Packers receivers match up well with these Niners' corners and  can get open if Rodgers has the time. The Niners won't shut down the Packers offense, they can only hope to contain it. 

It'll be hard for Green Bay to stop San Fran's offense. Their defense isn't spectacular. They're going to have a hard time containing Kaepernick and keeping guys like Boldin for making catches that move the chains. The Niners defense is a lot more physical and aggressive and Green Bay will struggle to move the ball at first, but once they get it going, it's hard to keep that offense down. I don't think Kaep will rush for 181 yards, nor do I think he'll throw for 412 yards again. But I see Green Bay making more plays and taking advantage of favorable match ups against the Niners secondary. I'm gonna give the game to Green Bay.

Prediction: Packers defeat 49ers

I've got all 4 Home teams winning. That hasn't happened since 2011. Should be an exciting weekend indeed. Enjoy The Games!



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By: Gerald "Showstopper" Prophete