Super Bowl Sunday

By Dan Rodgers

New York Giants vs. New England Patriots - The Rematch

We are less than two hours before kickoff of Super Bowl XLVI and Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski is officially active for the game, surprise-surprise...

This is the first Super Bowl in the history of the sport between two former Super Bowl MVPs. Tom Brady will try for the second time to join Joe Montana and Terry Bradshaw as the only QBs to win the Super Bowl four times. This is also Brady's second try against the Giants (Super Bowl XLII).

New York offense:

The Giants' passing attack is just as explosive and difficult to defend as New England's; however, New York has a respectable running game that I expect them to utilize. I will be looking for Ahmad Bradshaw to have a big game because he is small, quick and elusive. He should be able to eclipse 100 total yards between rushing and receiving out of the backfield. If Brandon Jacobs doesn't start the game and show effectiveness, look for Coughlin to focus on Bradshaw. Jacobs is an incredible back when he runs downhill and straight ahead, but he is useless when he dances around and takes time on his cuts.

The Eli Manning-led passing attack is as good as any in the league because of the depth the Giants have at receiver. They lack a truly effective receiving tight end (unlike the Pats), but with Nicks, Cruz, Manningham and Bradshaw's ability out of the backfield, the Giants have numerous play-makers that New England's porous defense needs to account for today. Eli Manning has proved this season that he should be considered a top quarterback in the NFL, but he can cement his place as an elite QB with a victory.

New England offense:

The Pats are the same offensive team that they have been, with the exception of replacing Randy Moss with Rob Gronkowski. They rely on quick passes and timing. An effective way to get Brady out of his element is to get pressure with your four-man rush and clog the passing lanes by playing zone coverage. The Giants have one of the best defensive lines I've ever seen, and should be able to get pressure similar to that of Super Bowl XLII. However, unfortunately for the Giants, there might not be a better coach in the business at pregame planning and in-game adjustments than Bill Belichick. BB is even better when he gets to rematch a team he lost to earlier that season.

The Pats do an excellent job of using the pass to open up the run and are not afraid to rely on Ben-Jarvis Green-Ellis if he is finding running room. The Law Firm is a big back and he doesn't fumble, which makes him an excellent complement to a Belichick-coached team. The Giants can't over-compensate for the pass or Green-Ellis will run all over them.

Recap:

I think the Giants will get a formidable amount of pressure on Brady and cause some problems. I also think that even though New England has the worst defense in the NFL, Belichick will have them ready. A lot of people think this one is going way over the total (53.5), but remember the total of the game played earlier this season was only (44, all scored in the second half).

I said it earlier and I'll say it again, if the Giants make the Super Bowl - they'll win it. I will stick by that.

Prediction:
New York Giants 27 (+3) New England Patriots 23

Enjoy the final game of the NFL season.

Rodgers That

NFL Championship Weekend Review

By Dan Rodgers

Well, I was wrong only for the second time this post-season. Sunday was a fairly frustrating day and I didn't even have my team involved.

First, the Pats/Ravens game looked perfect. They were within a score of each other the entire game, and the halftime total was on pace to go over in the teaser. However, a stupid attempted fourth down by the Ravens and a missed field goal at the end cost us the tease by a half point. Brady uncharacteristically threw two interceptions in the second half and couldn't convert a red zone possession into a touchdown. Joe Flacco added a second half interception and couldn't lead the Ravens to a touchdown after earning a short field when recovering a fumble on a kickoff.

So as you can tell, everything had to go perfectly wrong in this game. Brady got completely outplayed and posted his lowest passer-rating since the Pats 2009 Wild Card loss to the Ravens.

The 49ers/Giants game went relatively how I expected. I was hoping to see more from the 49ers' receivers due to the mediocrity of the Giants secondary; however, it was just Vernon Davis that torched the secondary. The 49ers defense was unable to contain Victor Cruz, and surprisingly, Ahmad Bradshaw. Bradshaw had 70 yards on 20 carries, which is decent considering San Fran's run defense is superb. However, Bradshaw had six catches for 50 yards, including a 30-yarder.

The first turning point in the game was when Kyle Williams let a punt bounce and hit him in the leg. Apparently, Williams didn't know the ball hit him, made no attempt at a recovery, and the Giants recovered. On a short field, the Giants converted two third-downs on their way to scoring the go-ahead touchdown. San Fran did respond, but had to settle for a field goal after getting inside the 10-yard-line. Both teams traded punts for the rest of regulation and into overtime.

After the Giants advanced the ball just passed midfield, the 49er defense held strong and forced another punt. Kyle Williams, doing his best to screw his team over, had a five-yard return before once again being the cause of a turnover. The Giants were able to play it safe, get a little closer, and Lawrence Tynes once again kicked the Giants into a Super Bowl match-up with the New England Patriots.

The Giants won the game outright, which I said I wouldn't be surprised if they did. The Giants obviously covered the tease, but I was still disappointed that I picked San Fran, and in my opinion, they should have won and covered the two. Well, at least the games were eventful.

Disappointing fact: The Ravens (my girlfriend and friends' team) and Jets (my team) have lost in the AFC Championship game each of the last four seasons. Ravens '08, '11 - Jets '09, '10

I don't know about you, but I didn't want this Super Bowl. However, it should at least be an exciting one with a lot of story-lines.

Rodgers That

NFL Championship Weekend

By Dan Rodgers

Well, we're down to the Final Four and while many could have predicted the AFC's participants before the season started, not many people had the 49ers and Giants in mind to be the NFC's final two participants.

The spreads for both games have been moving since they were first released last week. However, I don't think it has changed my opinion on them. If you aren't listening to me by now, you probably never will. However, if you are, you are experiencing quite a successful post-season thus far. I am 7-1 ATS, including 4-0 this past weekend.

I'll admit I was having a tough time reading the games when the lines were first released. I have a better feel now, and you'll find my thoughts below.

Early Game
(2) Baltimore Ravens (+7) at (1) New England Patriots

This is clearly a game between two polar opposites. The Ravens love to play defense, and the Pats love to play offense. However, the Patriots put together a very complete game last week in their 45-10 drubbing of the Denver Broncos. The Ravens didn't look very good on offense against the Texans second-ranked defense, but didn't commit any penalties or turnovers. Baltimore should obvious find more success against an abysmal New England defense, but their lack of execution leaves me wanting more.

I think Ravens fans need to recognize a lack of execution and stop putting the sole blame for the offensive woes on O-Coordinator Cam Cameron. If the Ravens can execute today, the Pats will struggle to stop them due to their balance. With a top running back and receivers that can stretch the field, we will likely see an offensive battle in this game. I think there is no question that the Ravens should cover, pending a crazy amount of turnovers, penalties, or injuries (of course), but coming away with a trip to Indianapolis will solely rely on the offensive execution.

Of course, if the Ravens can't stop the unique combination of Welker and Gronkowski, it will take at least 30 points to beat Brady and the Pats. However, I have faith that Baltimore can at least slow down Brady. The key to stopping Brady is getting pressure with the front four. If the Ravens can effectively rush Brady with their d-line and drop seven into coverage, it will clog the passing lanes and should frustrate Brady. We've seen evidence of this against the Steelers this season and the Jets in the playoffs last season.

Unfortunately, I think the Patriots are too good on offense and their defense will step up in this big game. It should be a close one though, and it would not at all surprise me if Baltimore won outright.

Prediction:
New England Patriots 31 Baltimore Ravens 27 (+7)

Late Game
(4) New York Giants at (2) San Francisco 49ers (-2)

I'm much less confident on this game. I think that the 49ers will win, but if the Giants do, they'll win the Super Bowl. Both teams have very good defenses, but both offenses have played very well as of recent. In my opinion, the Giants are the hottest team in the playoffs, but the 49ers are the most complete team.

The Giants defensive line is the best I've ever seen. All of the players: Tuck, Umenyiora, Pierre-Paul, Kiwanuka, etc. are all strong, athletic, and fast off the line. They are the reason the Giants are so successful. If they can't get pressure, any above average quarterback should be able to pick apart their mediocre secondary. However, the 49ers love to play physical and should give the Giants d-line all they can handle. San Fran likes to run the ball should have no problem using multiple tight end sets to help block.

There is nothing special about the 49ers offense. They like to methodically move the ball down the field, focusing on the run game. I see this game being decided by offense because both defenses should find success. I think Eli Manning is clearly the superior QB, but Alex Smith has been playing well and doesn't make many mistakes.

Like I said earlier, I think the 49ers will win, but wouldn't be surprised if the Giants pulled it out. I'm picking San Fran to cover, but the real play with this game is teasing the Giants to +8.5.

Prediction:
San Francisco 49ers 23 (-2) New York Giants 20

Money teaser: 6.5-tease Ravens +13.5, OVER 43.5 (Bal/NE), Giants +8.5 (5 units)

Enjoy what should be another fantastic weekend of playoff football. Make sure you set your NFL Playoff Fantasy Challenge lineups!

Rodgers That

Sports Video Blog: NFC QBs by Division

By Dan Rodgers

Below you should find my video on NFC QBs. Like in the AFC video, I break down each division and the quarterback situation for each team.




Coming soon: My fantasy teams from my upcoming drafts.

Rodgers That

Were you a fool?

By Dan Rodgers

So I was at my buddies place watching the Chicago game thinking to myself, "Oh my gosh! What are all my readers going to do without my insightful posts regarding the NFL Playoffs?"

Well, all I can say is that I hope you weren't one of the suckers that fell into the Seattle trap. They faced another double digit spread, but this one wasn't the same as the last. Chicago has a much worse offense, but a defense that is world's better than the Saints. If you are a good decision maker, you wouldn't have bet on the game; HOWEVER, if you are an intelligent sports bettor then you would have placed a decent sized bet on the Bears to beat the crap out of the Seahawks.

Sure, it's easy for my to say this now you might think. I did pick the Bears in my personal NFL pool, and I would have "best bet" them if I wasn't more confident in the Pack (which I was).

The guy who is in first place (shocked it's not me?), thinks he is the man but this was an easy pick. He was riding the Seahawks until they didn't cover instead of taking a halfway decent look at the game. Seattle is just a downright bad team and last week was an absolute fluke. You might say, "Chicago is inconsistent, Cutler sucks a lot and QB's in their first playoff game in the last eight or so years are like 5-19."

WELL, I combat that by saying, Seattle is terrible. They are playing in freezing temperatures and the Bears are used to that. They are playing a good defense, something the Saints definitely didn't have. Seattle threw the kitchen sink at New Orleans because everyone was writing them off, but team's like Seattle can't continue to pull that out because they aren't good.

Whatever, Seattle sucks, Chicago will lose to Green Bay next week and the Pack will represent the NFC in the Super Bowl like I predicted in the preseason. Gosh it feels good to be right...

Rodgers That

Little Leon

By Dan Rodgers

Dear Little Leon Washington,

You were my favorite Jet. I want to apologize to you that you were traded away, for an insultingly low draft pick nonetheless. That pick is now USC RB Joe McKnight, the one pick who everyone complains about being out of shape and being awful in mini camps.

Leon, you never got the respect you deserved, and just as you were beginning to earn it: broken leg, arguably the worst injury a running back can experience. You were elected to a pro-bowl as a kick returner, one of the most feared returners in the game. You are fast, elusive, agile, have a ton of heart, and I will miss you dearly.

You never really got a fair opportunity to run the ball in the NFL. Just as the Jets were beginning to utilize you to your full ability, you were injured in the middle of a blowout against the Raiders.

I recently learned that you will be given the chance to compete for the starting running back position in Seattle. I hope you win bud, I have your jersey and your autographed rookie card. I hope you tear up the NFC. Make the Jets wish they hadn't pretty much given you away.

Most of this post probably doesn't make sense, but I had to get it out. I am still, and will continue to be upset about this.

I love you "Little Leon"... keep running...



Rodgers That

An open letter to Donovan McNabb

Dear Mr. McNabb,

I’m sorry. On behalf of all Eagles fans everywhere, I’m so, so sorry. I know you’ve been booed since your selection as the number 2 pick in 1999 to play for the city of brotherly love. That you were never surrounded with enough talent to play to your ultimate potential, and that when you finally were given those weapons it was your first Superbowl appearance. And I know that it’s awful to finally have so many new weapons in Brent Celek, DeSean Jackson, LeSean McCoy, and Jeremy Maclin. That being traded to play from Andy Reid, who doesn’t know that a run game exists, to Mike Shanahan, the man who basically invented the greatest running scheme known to modern NFL, must feel like heaven for your not-even-close to weary 33 year old frame. So how do you feel, Mr. McNabb? You’re being put in the middle of another offense that will ask too much of you, with Santana Moss and Chris Cooley to serve as your new Robin and Batgirl. Your net worth to the franchise that you brought to the NFC Championship Game 5 times and one Superbowl? A second round draft pick. Sure, you could be worth another pick next year. But ultimately you were just told, as the face of the franchise, that your worth is a backup middle linebacker. Ouch man. On a better note, you muscled your way to being in the same division. I hope you make the Eagles front office remember that you were the best player in Eagles history for a reason.

Best of luck, you’ll be missed,

-Dr. Jekyll.

BREESing into Mardi Gras

By Dan Rodgers

The people of Nawlins will be celebrating Mardi Gras a week or so early as they rejoice in the streets because they just won their first Super Bowl in franchise history. Drew Brees was named MVP of the game as he tied a Super Bowl record with 32 completions. He also threw for 288 yards and two touchdowns and no interceptions.

Peyton Manning had one less completion than Brees but 45 more yards. However, he also threw an interception for Tracy Porter that was returned for what was the game clinching touchdown. To the surprise of many, Joe Addai had 135 all-purpose yards but the Colts couldn't seem to convert when necessary.

The turning point in the game, even though it was early, was when the Saints recovered an onside kick to open the second half. That gave them the ball down four instead of the Colts up four with the ball. Brees threw a touchdown to Pierre Thomas and the Saints stole all of the momentum. Peyton Manning looked out of rythym, Dwight Freeney was noticeably a nonfactor besides his one sack, and the receivers were surprisingly dropping passes.

Some might say the Saints won the game and others might say the Colts lost the game...all I know is that I should start going with what I want more than what I think will happen.

I thought: Colts 37 Saints 31

I wanted: Saints 33 Colts 28

It was: Saints 31 Colts 17

Well, all I have left to say is that I couldn't be happier for the Saints and Drew Brees. Personally, I think Brees is better than Tom Brady and he isn't even in the same conversation. Sure, Brady has won three SB's but he also had a stellar defense at the time. Brees just won the big one all by himself. Sure he got the pick-6, but the whole season he led his team and is putting up potentially record setting numbers with good players but nobody special. Brady put up above-average numbers at best until he got Moss and Welker. Not to mention he hasn't won anything since he got them which proves how important his defense was. Wow, didn't realize how much I wrote. Well that is enough on the QB discussion until later.

Rodgers That

Rodgers That

Super Sunday

By Dan Rodgers

Hey everyone, sorry about my two week hiatus. I have been in school and getting myself on track, but no worries because I'm back.

It's the moment we've all the waiting for...the Super Bowl.

The Indianapolis Colts travel to Miami to take on the New Orleans Saints. Two of the best quarterbacks in the league face off in a game that looks to be an explosion of offense and a scoring fest.

The game features two elite quarterbacks in Drew Brees and Peyton Manning. Brees has revived the Saints after decades of turmoil and being devastated by Hurricane Katrina. The Saints enter their first ever Super Bowl in franchise history and the Colts head into their fourth total and second in four years.

Now don't get upset that I'm not mentioning much about other players on these two teams because this game is solely going to be decided by the play of the quarterbacks. However, don't be surprised by a turnover or two possibly going back for a score. But in the end, this game should come down to the final possession whether there is three minutes on the clock or 45 seconds.

Enough B.S. about the game, I'm sure if you're interested you have been watching ESPN and such for the past two weeks to get all of your facts and information.

Indianapolis Colts (-5.5) vs. New Orleans Saints

My prediction: Colts 37 Saints 31

Let it be known that I want to Saints to win but I am trying to leave my emotions behind me. I just don't see how Peyton Manning doesn't take over and dominate the Saints defense. Look for Manning to have a big day but don't count out the rushing attack (attack being used very loosely) for the Colts because the Saints will do whatever they can to stop the pass.

What I want to happen: Saints 33 Colts 28

Look for an update possibly closer to game time.

Rodgers That

Championship Sunday *Quickie

By Dan Rodgers

Hey all, I'm 20 years old now and I don't feel any different, oh what a surprise. I will be in Tennessee this weekend for a Bar Mitzvah so I am not sure if I will be back in time to write before the games.

NFC

Minnesota Vikings @ New Orleans Saints (-3.5)

The Saints offense proved last week that they didn't miss a beat after benching their starters and having a bye week. Even though Arizona's defense has been dreadful, you have to execute against bad defenses before you can do so against the good ones. Minnesota's defense was as good as can be against Dallas last week but I think Drew Brees can find any holes that might be in the defense. The Vikes have been stopping the run fairly easily so I see Brees throwing at least 45 times including an attempt to utilize Reggie Bush's unique ability in space by throwing some screen passes. Due to the Brett Favre factor the game will be close, but I do like the Saints to cover the spread in a game that might look closer than it is.

My prediction: Saints (-3.5) 27 Vikings 23

AFC

New York Jets (+8) @ Indianapolis Colts

The Jets have been hot as hell and with San Diego/Dallas out of the mix, they look to be the hottest team. The Colts looked mediocre last week against Baltimore, but came away with a win due to the ineffectiveness of the entire Ravens team. I look for the Jets to run the heck out of the ball not only to move it down the field but also to keep Peyton on the sideline. They should have a good day since Indy isn't to good at stopping the run, but might be in trouble if they have to throw. Sanchez has been playing well but the Colts have filled in their injury-shaken secondary nicely. Look for the Jets to cover the spread and the Colts to get demolished in the time-of-possession statistic. Shonn Greene and Thomas Jones should both surpas 75 yards while Peyton will throw a touchdown or two.

My prediction: Jets (+8) 16 Colts 20

Rodgers That

Jets, Vikes advance

By Dan Rodgers

Divisional Round - Sunday

Dallas Cowboys (+2.5) 3 Minnesota Vikings 34

My prediction: Cowboys 27 Vikings 20

Ugh, not exactly "on" with my picks involving the NFC. This has been a pretty frustrating post-season because a team might show up one week and then just blank the very next without reason. The Cowboys were outplayed in every aspect of the game and shot themselves in the foot numerous times when they were unable to convert in their opponents territory. Tony Romo threw an interceptions and lost two of his three fumbles. Favre had another good game picking up the slack from AP. He threw for four touchdowns, three of them to Sidney Rice. They play the Saints on Sunday for the NFC crown.

New York (+7) 17 San Diego 14

My prediction: Jets 20 Chargers 24

So I was definitely on target with my Jets covering the spread, but they did one better...the won the game straight up. I'll be damned it was quite remarkable if you ask me. Down seven at half, the Jets showed poise and allowed the Bolts to make the majority of the mistakes so Gang Green could capitalize. Mark Sanchez turned the ball over for the first time in three weeks, but responded well by throwing the go-ahead touchdown pass to Dustin Keller. Shonn Greene had another great game scoring on a Jets franchise record 53-yard touchdown pass that nearly put the game out of reach. However, the game truly over when Nate Kaeding missed his third field goal of the day in an attempt to cut the lead to seven. Kaeding also missed the potential game winning field goal in a 2004 playoff game against the Jets. I guess we're his kryptonite.

The Jets head to Indy to face the NFL's MVP. Should make for a great match up.

Rodgers That

Looking ahead: NFL Sunday

By Dan Rodgers

Cowboys (+2.5) at Vikings

This is an interesting game because, I can't believe it's actually true, it's playoff time and the Dallas Cowboys are red hot. Besides the Chargers I think Dallas is the hottest team in the NFL right now. Right now Tony Romo is playing very well and even Roy Williams is getting into the mix. Miles Austin is having a break out season (sucks for the Jets who chose not to sign him) and the Cowboys are using all three running backs very effectively. The defense, led by DeMarcus Ware, is playing very well as they were second in the NFL in points per game (15.6). The Vikes are winning games but not playing their best football. The defense is playing well as expected but I don't see how they can slow down the Dallas offense which is ranked in the top 10 in passing and rushing. I like Dallas to edge out the Vikes in a game that will have more offense than expected. Look for Brett the...Viking...to turn the ball over a time or two.

My prediction: Cowboys (+2.5) 27 Vikings 20

Jets (+7) at Chargers

The Jets come into this game winning six out of their last seven, impressive right? Well, it would be if the team they were facing hadn't closed out the season winning their last 11 in a row. The Chargers momentum might have been slowed due to the bye week, but that doens't mean that they aren't playing great football. They are my AFC Super Bowl pick. Unfortunately that means they will have to go through my Jets which is going to be devasting for me. I can be realistic though and and see right now that the Chargers are the better team. However, don't be surprised to see my Jets put up a hell of a fight because they match up so well. They play stellar pass defense which is San Diego's strong point. The Chargers aren't too good at stopping the run (117.8 ypg) and the Jets lead the league in rushing with over 170 yards per game. The primary match up is going to be Phillip Rivers combined with his three targets of six foot four inches or taller against Darrelle Revis and the Jets undersized defensive backs. However, also keep an eye on Mark Sanchez and his ability to pass the ball and potentially stretch the field with Braylon Edwards.

My preciction (unfortunately): Jets (+7) 20 Chargers 24

Rodgers That

Looking back: NFL Saturday

By Dan Rodgers

Divisional Round - Saturday

Baltimore Ravens (+6.5) 3 Indianapolis Colts 20

My prediction: Ravens 26 Colts 20

I predicted the Colts score on the money, but the Ravens decided to end their season and I wasn't expecting it. I want to apologize to everyone about that the Ravens' decision to lay down against a rival in a playoff game. I assumed that they would show up like the did last week and at least put up a fight. BUT, you all know what assuming does, it makes an ASS out of U and ME. The Colts didn't play well, but they forced a few mistakes and watched the Ravens shoot themselves in the foot...over and over again. I don't want to hear about penalties and complaints about the refs because nothing would have changed the Ravens playing so terrible. Talk about a recent sophomore slump, Flacco looked pretty good early on this season but his "injuries" have just completely thrown off his game. Better luck next year.

Arizona Cardinals (+7) 14 New Orleans 45

My prediction: Cardinals 38 Saints 44

So, I was kind of spot on in the Saints/Cards game, but I figured the Cardinals wouldn't suck like they did and at least put up half the points they did against Green Bay. However, they laid a second half egg and were held to only fourteen points. I was pretty on target in predicting the Saints score and the over was money. The Saints kept the game exciting putting up 45 points including a few electrifying plays from Reggie Bush. The Cardinals gave up a remarkable 45 points in consecutive weeks. The more impressive thing is that they won one of those games. The Saints will roll in the NFC Championship and will face Dallas or Minnesota. This is the first time that New Orleans has hosted the big game so they will be pumped and that dome will be rocking.

Rodgers That

Division Saturday Preview

By Dan Rodgers

House sitting with the girlfriend. I was in Delaware so this preview is going to be a bit late. This is going to be an excellent Saturday full of football. First off, we should have an offensive explosion.

Cardinals (+7) at Saints

The Arizona Cardinals head to the Big Easy to take on the Saints. This should be over a 70 point-plus game. Look for the Saints to shock everyone and put up a ton of points even though many "experts" expected them to be out of sync due to losing their last three games and having the bye week. I look for them to barely reach the 40's while the Cardinals will be close behind in the high 30's. The defenses in this game will once again get embarrassed, but the Saints will get the last laugh because they'll put up more points. Kurt Warner might have played his last playoff game and who knows what that will mean for Fitzgerald and Boldin. Also, look for both rushing attacks to be utilized because of the hype in the passing game.

My prediction: Cardinals (+7) 38 Saints 44

Ravens (+6.5) at Colts

I love, beyond recognition, the Ravens to AT LEAST cover the spread in this game. I will not make any promises but don't act surprised if the Ravens pull this one out. The Colts will probably focus in on stopping Ray Rice so Joe Flacco will probably have to do better than the 35 passing yards he had last week. I expect the Ravens defense to have a similar repeat performance of what they did last time to the Colts when they held them to only 17 points. I expect the Ravens to at least punch it into the end zone once, but if they get down to the goalline and they don't give it to McClain I will go crazy. Look for a couple turnovers but Peyton won't go down without a fight.

Ravens (+6.5) 26 Colts 20

If I were a betting man (laughs), I would take the over in the Saints/Cards game and Baltimore to cover the spread.

See you tomorrow.

Rodgers That

NFL Sunday Recap

By Dan Rodgers

I was a bit closer on with these predictions, but I seem to be struggling with my NFC picks and my AFC picks are right on. Hopefully this will improve.

AFC Wild-Card:

Baltimore Ravens (+3.5) 34 New England Patriots 23

My prediction: Ravens 33 Patriots 14

I was right on with the Ravens on this prediction but apparently I gave the Pats a little too much credit. They actually would have had 34 points, but they went for a two-point conversation to go up 21 points. Ray Rice had 159 yards and two touchdowns. Tom Brady was responsible for two touchdown passes, three interceptions and a lost fumble. The Ravens completely dominated the game from the start jumping out to a 24 to nothing first quarter lead. Ray Rice set the pace early with an 83-yard run on the first play from scrimmage. The Pats didn't even stand a chance once the Ravens scored again off a Brady fumble.

NFC Wild-Card:

Green Bay Packers (PK) 45 at Arizona Cardinals 51

My prediction: Packers 37 Cardinals 27

I couldn't have been more far off on this one, but it was crazy game to watch. The game set the NFL record for the highest scoring post-season game in history. The Packers came back from a 31-10 third quarter deficit to tie the game at 45 with under two minutes left. Kurt Warner drove the Cards down the field and with 16 seconds left they lined up for a "chip-shot" field goal. Rackers pulled it wide left and Aaron Rodgers knelt down to send the game to OT. The Packers won the toss and on third down and 10 to go, I saw a crazy play. Rodgers was sacked and had the ball knocked out of his hand, but as it was headed to the turf Rodgers was taken off of his feet and kicked the ball back into the air. Karlos Dansby caught the ball in mid-air and ran it in for the game winning touchdown. Just absolutely deflating to me because I was definitely rooting for my bro A-Rodge. Better luck next year. Good luck in New Orleans Kurt and the Cards.

Rodgers That

Sunday Preview

By Dan Rodgers

Ravens (+3.5) at Patriots

I definitely love the Ravens in this game to at least cover the spread. Primarily because of that half point but if you just look at the match up: the Ravens had numerous opportunities to beat the Pats earlier this season and the Pats are injured. Brady primarily has numerous injuries including ribs and a finger. I personally think the Ravens will win out right, but if you're going to put your money on anything definitely on the Ravens to at least cover. Patriots won't be able to do anything besides win by a field goal if that.

My prediction: Ravens (+3.5) 34 Patriots 23

Look for a high scoring game and multiple turnovers. Ray Rice should have 150+ yards and 2 touchdowns. Tom Brady will have 2 touchdowns and a turnover or two.

Packers (PK) at Cardinals

Recently the spread has gone more in the Packers favor because of the beat down the laid on Arizona last week. Green Bay is the hottest team in the NFL right now winning seven of their last right games with their only loss coming at the hands of the Pittsburgh Steelers on a last second touchdown pass. One of my favorite young players, Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, is slightly injured but he will play. Look for the Packers to air it out like they did last week to open up the ground game with Ryan Grant. The game won't be nearly as much of a blowout as it was last week, but it Green Bay will win by double digits.

My prediction: Green Bay (PK) 37 Arizona 27

Rodgers That

NFL Saturday Recap

By Dan Rodgers

I just want to apologize to the Dallas Cowboys and their fans for the lack of faith I had in them. I do want to say I was thoroughly convinced that they can win in the playoffs now with that blow out win over division rival Philly. Not only did the Cowboys win, but they did so over a division foe for the third time this season. Beating a team three times in one season is extremely difficult to thing to accomplish.

AFC Wild-Card:

New York Jets (+2.5) 24 Cincinnati Bengals 14

My prediction: Jets 26 Bengals 17

I would say that I was fairly accurate in my prediction with this game. I said that Mark Sanchez was the difference and I was right. He completed 12 of 15 passes for 182 yards and a touchdown. More importantly, he did not turn the ball over, and he wasn't even close. Sanchez played smart football and handed the ball off like a pro. Thomas Jones had limited action due to injury, but they Jets didn't miss a beat because rookie Shonn Greene ran for 135 yards including a 39-yard touchdown. I also said the defense would have to control Benson, which they absolutely did not. I have to give Benson credit because he is the only one that showed up. He had a phenomenal game breaking the Bengals franchise post-season record for rushing yards in a single game. Carson Palmer was the lesser of the USC quarterbacks as he only completed 18 of 36 passes for 146 yards and a touchdown to ex-Jet Laverneous Coles and an interception to Darrelle Revis.

Simply, the Jets outplayed the Bengals (again) in every aspect of the game. Look for an interesting matchup next week against either the Colts or Chargers.

NFC Wild-Card

Philadelphia Eagles (+4) 14 Dallas Cowboys 34

My prediction: Eagles 30 Cowboys 23

Basically, I expected the Eagles to show up. Plain and simple, they didn't. The Cowboys dominated the entire game on both sides of the ball. Tony Romo looked as good as he's ever looked and even Roy Williams contributed. The Cowboys won their first playoff game since 1996 and have been on fire of recent. They really proved that tonight with their domination over a division rival for the second time in as many weeks. I was correct with a 40-plus yard touchdown but it was to Jeremy Maclin and not DeSean Jackson. Jackson did catch a meaningless three yard touchdown. On a note for next week's games, I love the Cowboys to upset the reeling Vikings. Minnesota has been inconsistent of recent, especially the play of Brett Favre, who thankfully didn't win MVP this year.

Look out later for Sunday's predictions.

Rodgers That

January Football

By Dan Rodgers

My sincerest apologies. It has been quite a while since I've posted, but by now you must be up to date with the NFL playoff situation.

Today the Jets travel to Cincinnati to take on the Bengals. Later the Eagles take a trip to Dallas to battle their division rival. Both games are rematches of week 17. The Jets beat the Bengals and the Cowboys beat the Eagles. Both games were shut outs.

Many people figure Wild-Card Weekend to be a different story in both games. The "experts" seem to think that Cincinnati laid down for New York and that the Jets showed every trick in their book and that the Bengals will be ready. It is also tough to think that the Cowboys can beat the Eagles three times in one season. However, if you remember back to last season, the Steelers reached the Super Bowl by beating the Ravens for a third time in the AFC Championship.

Personally, I believe that if the Jets can stop Cedric Benson they should be able to keep the Bengals in check. However, Mark Sanchez proves to be the wild card pick every week. If he doesn't turn the ball over the Jets are 5-2 when Sanchez doesn't turn the ball over, both of those losses were to Miami and by a combined total of eight points. So if Sanchez can protect the ball and the defense can stop the run, I believe the Jets have a realistic chance to win.

Jets (+2.5) 26 Bengals 17

The Eagles go to Dallas with the hopes of developing some sort of momentum. They've lost the last two to the Cowboys and face them for a third time tonight. I think the Eagles will come out strong because they were shut out last week in Dallas. It is also unbelievably difficult to beat a division rival three times in one season. I like the Eagles to not only cover the spread in this game by also win the game out right. The defense will be ready and their offense will finds way to strike deep. Look for a 40-plus yard touchdown from DeSean Jackson.

Eagles (+4) 30 Cowboys 24

Look back tomorrow because I will have a blurb on the Sunday games.


Rodgers That