TD's Divisional Round Picks

Last week, I promised Sporting Rants and Raves would be posted within a day. Then, I met my statistics homework and discovered that the post was a pipe dream. And thus, I cannot promise another post this weekend, especially given the fact that I both want to get my homework completed AND I want to watch the games...

That said, let's get to the picks.

Arizona @ New Orleans
The Saints. An offensive powerhouse for most of the season. A fading star in its last few games. They certainly have the talent. But not the experience. The Cardinals. An offensive powerhouse that can light any team up on any given day. But inconsistent, even, at time, within the same game. See last week's game against Green Bay. What wins this game? Defense, ironically. He who can stop the other will win. TD chooses: New Orleans Saints

Baltimore @ Indianapolis
Baltimore has something intangible. A grittiness. A will to win. And a running game. Indianapolis has Peyton Manning. I'm going to take the latter over the former nine times out of ten. And this ain't that tenth time. TD chooses: Indianapolis Colts

Dallas @ Minnesota
I almost wish the Vikings still played outside. That added element could have been the game changer. Then again, Favre most likely wouldn't have played for Minnesota in that case. But this isn't a time for 'what ifs'. Instead, we must consider what is. A Minnesota team that lost two of its last three and saw Favre and Childress vie for leadership in a rather questionable way. And a Dallas team that has virtually annihilated the competition the last couple weeks. Yes, Minnesota will come to play, but Brett will only come close once again. TD chooses: Dallas Cowboys

New York Jets @ San Diego
I appreciate Rex Ryan's cockiness. He got that from his old man. I appreciate the Jets' talent and, perhaps, even its depth. But I must admit that I have little confidence that they can pull off a win against a team that has looked like the second hottest team in the league - next to Dallas. They do have the fact that they are 1-0 against the Chargers in the playoffs (a 20-17 win in 2004). Unfortunately for them, I think that streak won't last. TD chooses: San Diego Chargers

There you have it. One hour and forty-five minutes until kickoff. Until next I write, happy sporting...