Saturday
Kansas City Chiefs at Indianapolis Colts - Larry Johnson will clearly have a mammoth day rushing against the Colts' porous line, however, I think the Colts will bleed this win. With the way they've faded the past five games and considering their recent playoff flame-outs, they will do whatever it takes to overcome the Chiefs' ground game. I see them going to the pass time after time and Manning threading the needle, willing them to win. Colts 38, Chiefs 31. Result: Colts 23, Chiefs 8.
Dallas Cowboys at Seattle Seahawks - The Cowboys have lost their stride recently, while the Seahawks have never quite had theirs this season. While the 'Hawks have all their horses healthy finally, I just don't get the vibe that this is their year to do anything but place. The Seattle receivers are a liability, while Dallas has strength at every skill position. Both teams will be slow going, but Dallas will pull away in the second half. Cowboys 31, Seahawks 20. Result: Seahawks 21, Cowboys 20.
Sunday
New York Jets at New England Patriots - The Patriots are just too good and too well-coached to lose a first-round game to a cinderella team. Mangini has done wonders with a formerly flailing Jet team, and he beat Belichick's Pats in their last meeting, but these are the Patriots, people--they'll find a way to win. It will be closer than it ought to be, but it's another success for New England. Patriots 24, Jets 20. Result: Patriots 37, Jets 16.
New York Giants at Philadelphia Eagles - Are you kidding me? The Giants haven't won a must-game since they started falling apart at midseason. Oh forgive me, they beat the Redskins on the last day of the season to squeak past the other 19 teams vying for that wildcard spot. The Eagles are hot right now, firing on all cylinders with nothing to lose. They will dominate. Farewell, Tiki. Eagles 34, Giants 17. Result: Eagles 23, Giants 20.
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Future Match-ups Providing My Imaginary World of Prognistication Comes True
Dallas at Chicago. Bears win by scoring three times on special teams and defense.
Philadelphia at New Orleans. Philly is a symbol of brotherly love and teamwork in this victory over a nervous and pressured Saints team--hoping too hard on their dream of renewal.