I went 3-1 last week in my playoff pick 'em, so let's hope that the gravy train continues to roll this week!!
- 49ers vs. Packers: Justin Smith is likely to return for the 49ers this week, which will be good for them. They'll need to get to Aaron Rodgers early and often. This game will be a nail-biter, but I'm going with the 49ers merely out of the fact that they're the home team. Colin Kaepernick must be careful throwing the ball, though. Packers corner Casey Hayward had six interceptions this season.
- Broncos vs. Ravens: Denver quarterback Peyton Manning is 0-3 lifetime when playing a playoff game in sub-40 degree playoff games. Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco is 4-4 lifetime on the road in the playoffs. Still, Denver's rolling right now. Therefore, I'm leaning towards a Broncos victory. But watch out for Baltimore running back Ray Rice. He could be a pleasant surprise for the Ravens this week.
- Falcons vs. Seahawks: With Atlanta defensive end John Abraham being questionable for this week's game with ankle problems, Seattle could just have Marshawn Lynch run the ball for a good chunk of the game. Atlanta QB Matt Ryan has also never won a playoff game in his career. The Seahawks are red-hot right now, so don't be surprised if they steal a game this week.
- Patriots vs. Texans: Houston looks for revenge against New England, who humiliated the Texans in Foxborough on December 10 with a 42-14 romp on Monday Night Football. What's more is the fact that the Patriots will have tight end Rob Gronkowski available this time around, who was out with an injury during that romp. However, this game will be closer with Texans running back Arian Foster rushing for another 100-yard game (He's the first NFL RB to rush for 100 yards in each of his first three playoff games) and defensive end J.J. Watt being a factor in this game. Still, I got the Patriots on top.
