NFL Divisional Round Playoff Picks Against the Spread

Hey guys.  I just got back from Vegas and cashed in on the Arizona/Atlanta over, Eagles, and Ravens.  I dropped a small amount on the Colts though.  Speaking of that game, the NFL better change the overtime rules this offseason.  It’s completely bogus to determine a football game by a coin flip.  You knew whoever was getting the ball first in overtime was going to win the game.  Let’s see what’s on tap this weekend.

BALTIMORE RAVENS @ TENNESSEE TITANS -3

With two of the best defense in the league, maybe the under 34.5 is the play to make.  However, a few Ed Reed INT’s can always get the game to hit the over.  I love the Ravens this post-season.  I think they have an excellent shot to play in the Super Bowl.  The Titans are at home where they just beet Pittsburgh in convincing fashion.  This will be a tight one.  Whoever wins the turnover and sack battle wins this game and both teams are great at forcing turnovers and getting sacks.  I’m pulling for the Ravens and I think this game pushes.  Either way, it should be tight.  With the home field, I’ll have to say the Titans win by a field goal.  Titans win, 16-13.

ARIZONA CARDINALS @ CAROLINA PANTHERS -10

Before seeing the spread, the Panthers over the Cardinals was the best play to make.  I would surely recommend taking the Panthers at -6.5, but 10 points is a lot to cover in a playoff game.  The Cardinals are terrible on the road, where they are 3-5.  They give up an average of 30 PPG on the road.  The Panthers, on the other hand, are a perfect 8-0 at home.  Carolina averages 29 PPG at home and gives up 13.9 PPG at home.  Also keep in mind that Anquan Bolden is listed as questionable for this game and should be a game-time decision.  The Panthers should dominate, but when you have to lay 10 point, a late Cardinals score can get them to cover. The over 48.5 also looks like a good play.  I see the Panthers winning this one by a score of 31-23.

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES @ NEW YORK GIANTS -4

I’m an Eagles fan and I think they have a great shot to win.  DeSean Jackson made the Sports Illustrated cover with the title “Philadelphia Is Dangerous.”  Yes they are.  The Eagles already beat the Giants in New York this season and seek to make it a second time.  Their defense is playing outstanding and Westbrook has been “The Giant Killer.”  Also keep in mind that Eli Manning sucks in the cold.  It could be just wishful thinking since the Eagles are my team, but even as I try to be unbias, taking the 4 points with the Eagles looks like a good play.  Eagles win, 24-20.

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS @ PITTSBURGH STEELERS -6

Pittsburgh won the last game against the Chargers 11-10.  Pittsburgh clearly has a defensive edge, but San Diego should keep it close.  I don’t think either spread is good to take, so you’re probably better off flipping a coin.  I say Pittsburgh wins, 23-17.