You’ve listened to the experts, now it’s time to hear what the guys on the sideline have to say regarding this weekend’s championship matchups. Although we didn’t do so hot with our picks last, we are looking to rebound. And rebound we will. Take it to the bank!
Tennessee Titans at Kansas City Chiefs:
CHRIS:
I think the Chiefs are the best team remaining in the playoffs and after their performance against Houston, who could argue that? They go down 24 (!) points and storm back in one quarter (!) to reclaim the lead before halftime! Seeing that type of performance has to get into your head a bit if you’re Tennessee. I’m taking the Chiefs in a solid 10-point win in this one, but I mean absolutely no disrespect to the mighty, mighty Titans. They have had one of the most memorable playoff runs in the last ten years and should be celebrated for it.
JEFF:
We’ve gotta bring Matt into the picture, since he’s our Nashville-insider. Matt, what say you?
MATTY G:
Titans 31, Chiefs 28. Why?
- Andy Reid (God love him) has a track record of coming up short in these games.
- The Titans had an extra day to prepare because they played Saturday and the Chiefs played Sunday. The trip to Kansas City probably evens it out, but the extra day–especially for Dean Pees to prepare defensive schemes–is important.
- Although it may run out this weekend, the Titans have had a good run of luck against the Chiefs recently. We’ve won our last three games against them, with one W coming in the playoffs. Granted, Mahomes was only around for one of those games, but the Titans seem to have the Chiefs’ number at the moment.
- Derrick. Freakin’. Henry. Nuff said.
There’s also something to be said about playing the underdog role, and having momentum (winners of 9 out of our last 12 games)
JEFF:
My favorite thing about the Chiefs is that the team displayed a notice on their scoreboard last week alerting fans to the fact that because of the explosive KC offense, they ran out of fireworks and were no longer able to launch explosives into the air. Thanks, Pat Mahomes!! I agree with Matt regarding the underdog role. I think the Titans are scary, and the Chiefs had better bring their “A” game today. With the idea that in back-to-back weeks, the Titans have upset the Patriots in New England and shocked the world by beating the Ravens in Baltimore, there’s no question they CAN win in Kansas City. I just think in the end, the Chiefs are too explosive and too tough and they get it done and head to the Super Bowl. Should be fun.
Green Bay Packers at San Francisco 49ers
CHRIS:
What is this, 1996? Those Packers used to bedevil my beloved Steve Young throughout the 90’s (with the exception of the Terrell Owens end of game miracle), so it’s hard to stay unbiased with this one, but I’ll try. I think the Niners are the better team overall, but I’ve got to go with a George Costanza pick here: I’m gonna “Go Pack, Go!” I think Aaron Rodgers is on a mission and this might be his last best shot at a second crown. I don’t think he’ll be denied. Expect some late game heroics like he’s pulled out against the Cowboys in past years and win this one in a thriller.
JEFF:
Chris, I love the Costanza pick. I’m totally torn in this one. As a Cardinals fan, it kills me to root for the 49ers. Best thing about their team is their defense. They are winning games with their toughness. And they are using Jimmy G to manage games and not make mistakes. But, in playoff football you’ve got to like experience. I agree with you that Aaron Rodgers’ moment is now. But, let me reverse myself here. I think I’ll take the Niners in this one. Home game, conservative play calling with the better defense. I do think it’ll be down to the wire, but I think in the end the Niners will be back in the Super Bowl. I ask the question, how long ago was it Chip Kelly had this team in the cellar? Well done Kyle Shanahan and John Lynch, well done.
