Perkins: Breaking Down NFL Divisional Playoffs
BOSTON (CBS) - My New Year's resolution is pretty simple; write more.
At least that is one of two resolutions I have made for 2012. The other is exercise more. Come to think of it, there isn't much difference between the two. Both resolutions require more discipline on my part; one in the gym (or wherever) and the other at the keyboard. What the hell, I spend the majority of my day at the keyboard, so why not spend more time writing than reading.
Let's start with the matchups this coming weekend in the NFL.
Denver @ New England
What the heck happened to the Pittsburgh defense? Who dialed up THAT scheme for the first play in overtime? Patriots fans have bemoaned their team's defense all season long but at least it has been in the general area of the football. Broncos receiver Demaryius Thomas was uncovered. UNCOVERED! That may be the easiest 80-yard touchdown he will ever experience. So, Denver gets to visit Foxboro on Saturday with the winner advancing to the AFC Championship. I like the Patriots to win 37-13.
Read: Can Josh McDaniels Help Patriots?
Houston @ Baltimore
Houston at Baltimore is intriguing. The Ravens defense will be expected to consume the Texans and their rookie quarterback, especially in Baltimore. Patriots' fans are hoping for an upset, much like the Broncos beating the Steelers. Alas, their wish will not come true. The Ravens should prevail, 24-10, and plan a trip to Foxboro on January 22.
New Orleans @ San Francisco
New Orleans at San Francisco on Saturday afternoon may be the best game of the weekend. The Saints, with record-setting Drew Brees at the helm, seem unstoppable. The 49ers defense has proven to be one of the best in 2012. The determining factor in this game might be the Niners' offense against the Saints' defense. Another factor will be New Orleans post-season experience. Look for the Saints to go marching in to the NFC Championship, 30-21.
Read: Broncos Looking Forward To Another Shot At Patriots
NY Giants @ Green Bay
The battle in Green Bay between the Packers and the New York Giants should be another barn burner. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers has been unstoppable all season for Green Bay much like Tom Brady was for the Patriots in 2007 when they faced the Giants in the Super Bowl. I wonder; can the Giants defense do to Rodgers and the Packers what it did to Brady and the Patriots? If it plays like it did against the Atlanta Falcons, then yes. But unless the Giants offense can put the ball in the end zone it won't matter how well the defense plays. The Packers, at home, with a chance to host the NFC Championship with a win. Too much for the Giants to contend with. Packers 27, Giants 24 in overtime.
You can hear Walt Perkins' Sports Updates weekday mornings on WBZ NewsRadio 1030 am and follow him on twitter @walt_perkins.
