NFL Divisional Playoff Picks

I still can't get over the fact that I went 0-4 last week after a nearly 69% regular season success rate in picking winners. I was dead-on with the fact that two of the higher seeded teams would lose...I just didn't think both would come from the AFC.

This week I would expect either 1 or 2 of the lower seeded teams to pull off the upset...take a look below to see my analysis:

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS 34, Arizona Cardinals 21
-I don't like the fact that New Orleans lost its final three games of the regular season (after starting 13-0) and hasn't played a truly meaningful game in nearly five weeks. The Cardinals are coming off a highly emotional win against the Packers in the highest scoring playoff game in NFL history. Look for New Orleans to move the ball at will against the now suspect Arizona defense and put up 30+. On the other hand, I expect the Saints defense to slow Kurt Warner and unfortunately push him into retirement after this one (Warner has reportedly been considering it these last few weeks).

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS 23, Baltimore Ravens 17
-This would be my second choice as an upset pick this weekend...but I have a feeling Indy jumps out to a double-digit advantage early and slows Baltimore's rushing attack. Joe Flacco wasn't asked to do much in the Ravens' victory over the Patriots last Sunday...and I don't expect him to be able to lead his team all the way back once they get behind.

Dallas Cowboys 27, MINNESOTA VIKINGS 24
-Here's your big upset folks. Dallas is on fire of late, while Minnesota didn't look too sharp to close the season other than a strong effort against the Giants - who basically didn't want to even play in Week 17. We all have heard by now about Tony Romo's playoff failures...but he sure seemed to put that argument to bed in last week's big win over Philly. Like Kurt Warner, I predict that this loss finally ends the career of Brett Favre - my favorite player of all-time (as a Packers fan).

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS 26, New York Jets 13
-As I explained last week, the Chargers haven't lost in nearly three months and look to be the best team in the NFL at this point. The Jets have overachieved of late led by a strong defense and run-oriented offense. San Diego will attempt to severely slow the Jets rushing attack and make California-native Mark Sanchez beat them through the air. The last time these two teams played in the playoffs several years back, then rookie kicker Nate Kaeding missed a crucial field goal which cost the Chargers the game. He'll kick four this time around in a comfortable San Diego victory.

Back next Monday with thoughts and analysis from this weekend's games!