NFC Predictions

Now that you know I've predicted the Broncos to pull through the AFC, lets take a look at how the NFC playoff picture is shaping up. It's far less clear than the AFC.  The Falcons are running through the field, simliar to what the Texans are doing, but they've looked more vulnerable in recent weeks than they were through week 8. I think any team that makes the playoffs in the NFC is capable of going to the Super Bowl. There simply hasn't been enough consistency shown by any of the NFC teams thus far, except for by the Falcons. Honestly, I just don't trust the Falcons. They've had such high expectations the last few years and fell on their face in the playoffs. It's clear they've been playing the best football in the Conference this year, but I only trust the Falcons more than the Seahawks (who have a rookie QB).

As far as the division races go, only the Falcons have their division wrapped up at this point. The 49ers have a comfortable 2 game lead on the Seahawks in the West and I expect them to remain in control to the finish line. The Packers and Bears are tied in the North. They have almost identical schedules, but I'm going to give the edge to the Bears. I see them bouncing back from last week very strongly. That being said, I'm confident the Packers will secure one of the wild card spots. The Giants could find themselves only 1 game up on both the Cowboys and the Redskins if they lose tonight. Tonight's game is huge for them, as they end the season with a very tough schedule. Unfortunately the Redskins and Cowboys don't have a much easier road. For that reason, I think the Giants will be able to close out with a slim lead in the East. The Seahawks close the season with a VERY favorable schedule, so I'm going pick them to grab the other wild card spot.

I predict the seeding will be as follows:

1. Falcons

2. 49ers

3. Bears

4. Giants

5. Packers

6. Seahawks

Although last week was no indication of this prediction, I think the Bears will roll over the Seahawks in round one. I expect the Packers to handle the Giants pretty easily too. The Giants don't have the defense they had last year and Eli Manning hasn't been as consistent either. I think the Packers will then make the Falcons wish they had missed the playoffs altogether and the Bears will finally conquer the 49ers at Candlestick, which has proven difficult over the years. That leaves the rivals, Packers and Bears, in the NFC championship game. The Bears will prevail, only because the game will be at Soldier Field.

That leaves the Broncos and Bears in the Super Bowl at the Superdome. I think the Bears defense wins this game, since the Broncos have no running game. They will be able to hone in on Peyton and make his life miserable. The Bears will win their first Super Bowl since 1985! Daaaaa Bears! Are you ready for some football?!?!?