Can Eli Manning and the New York Giants act as the road warriors for a third time? Here is ESNY’s official 2016 NFL Playoff preview.
Man, we sure did nail it last year.Alright, while we may have missed out a tad on the NFC side of things — in choosing Russell Wilson and the Seattle Seahawks to represent that side of the tournament — we were spot on in the grand scheme of things.
Yes, Elite Sports NY correctly predicted Peyton Manning and the Denver Broncos as Super Bowl Champions. We did not, however, believe that good ole’ Papa John would plant the first smooch on No. 18 at the conclusion of the game. That was one for the books.
Anyway, it was the Broncos who captured Super Bowl 50, gracefully allowing Manning to ride off into that lonely sunset. It was John Elway‘s crew, despite most of the mainstream media choosing Tom Brady and the New England Patriots as the AFC representative.
On top of that, take a gander at our official 2016 NFL Preview done prior to the season. The two teams who we chose to represent each conference are the Kansas City Chiefs and Green Bay Packers.
This means tricky times are ahead.
Do we stay with those two squads, even if thoughts and feelings have changed based on 17 weeks of play? Or do we simply scrap it and proclaim a new set of teams heading into January?
Regardless of our quandary, a new January brings with it a brand new set of circumstances.
RELATED: ESNY's 2015 NFL Preview & Predictions
Brady and the Pats are still there, this time as the top dogs of the conference. Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers did their best in making sure they punched their usual ticket to January.
On the front of everything that’s new, how about the New York Giants? For the first time since 2011, Eli Manning (along with his nasty defense) has punched a ticket to the playoffs. Matt Ryan and the Atlanta Falcons are also back after a brief hiatus.
What will happen? Who will step up? Which stars will be born?
So many questions, not one serious answer.
That is, until now. Here is Elite Sports NY’s official 2016 NFL Playoffs preview and predictions.
AFC Wild Card
5. Oakland Raiders (12-4) @ 4. Houston Texans (9-7)
- Sat, Jan. 7, 4:35 p.m. ET, ESPN/ABC
A terrific squad in the Oakland Raiders head to Houston to take on the Texans, David Carr-less. Despite Matt McGloin under center, Oakland will show up. Jack Del Rio will make sure of it.
Expect a close, yet horribly played game. We’ll take Bill O’Brien‘s squad to scratch and claw their way to a close one. In a season Brock Osweiler was so bad, expect the kid to actually redeem himself a bit in this one.
Texans 23, Raiders 13
3. Pittsburgh Steelers (11-5) @ 6. Miami Dolphins (10-6)
- Sun, Jan. 8, 1:05 p.m. ET, CBS
While many pundits love the Pittsburgh Steelers in the tournament — thanks to the high-powered offense led by Ben Roethlisberger, Le’Veon Bell and Antonio Brown — this defense can be horrific at times, especially the secondary.
Even with Ryan Tannehill out due to injury, Matt Moore and Jay Ajayi can easily control the tempo of the contest. A No. 12 ranking in total defense only masks the issues the Steelers have on the defensive side of the ball. Without Dick LeBeau, experts should think twice about choosing that pesky yellow towel to run the table.
All things considered, however, we’ll take the legendary clutch QB in the contest. Big Ben will somehow pull this one out at home.
Steelers 31, Dolphins 24
NFC Wild Card
5. New York Giants (11-5) @ 4. Green Bay Packers (10-6)
- Sun, Jan. 8, 4:40 p.m. ET, FOX
For the game of the week, we head over to Lambeau Field. It’ll be Eli Manning and Aaron Rodgers, yet again.
Many folks have already tabbed the winner of this one as the NFC Champion, riding the very familiar script that a hot team will bust through. Green Bay has won six straight while Eli has made a career of playoff road games.
To us, this one’s a flip of a coin. We wouldn’t be shocked about either outcome.
For New York, most of the ingredients are there. Manning, Odell Beckham Jr., Paul Perkins (who’s presence could mimic Ahmad Bradshaw), and, most importantly, a dangerous defense are all in tow. The problem — as it’s been all season — is this offensive line.
Manning and the Giants offense will, once again, face the loose, two-man under look from Dom Capers all day. If New York’s O-Line doesn’t suddenly come together in a magical way, we’ll take Rodgers to make just a few more plays in a game that’ll favor the big play.
While we’ll root for New York, we’ll take Green Bay thanks to the Giants line and A-Rod.
Should the Giants win, we wouldn’t be the least bit surprised if they run the table. Stranger things have happened (2007, 2011).
Packers 17, Giants 13
6. Detroit Lions (9-7) @ 3. Seattle Seahawks (10-5-1)
- Sat, Jan. 7, 8:15 p.m. ET, NBC
The 12th Man hasn’t been quite the same this season. These Seattle Seahawks aren’t what they used to be.
Russell Wilson is still employed, however.
Matt Stafford and the Detroit Lions are no joke. Even without Calvin Johnson, Stafford has shown his clutch abilities time and again this season. But what about Jim Caldwell? His big game abilities have been pointed out in the past and fans have to be worried about his composure on the sideline in a tight spot like this.
Give us Wilson and a tough defense to win one at home.
Seahawks 24, Lions 17
AFC Divisional
4. Houston Texans (10-7) @ 1. New England Patriots (14-2)
Finally, the Divisional Round, the best weekend of football during the season. Listen, the Super Bowl is about everything but football. It’s just the way life is now. Championship Sunday is still solid, but only two games make it rough.
The Divisional Round is where it’s at. But then comes the reality of the situation in 2017.
Has there ever been a BYE team who’s had an easier cakewalk to Championship Sunday? I mean, come on now.
Bill Belichick’s squad will either face the Houston Texans, Oakland Raiders or Miami Dolphins in the big game on the AFC side. Let’s just say the Pats will be there in two weeks. Only Miami could provide a few headaches, but even still, Tom Brady’s tuneup will come in the form of an easy one.
Patriots 38, Texans 21
3. Pittsburgh Steelers (12-5) @ 2. Kansas City Chiefs (12-4)
The offense of Pittsburgh will take its act to Kansas City to take on, perhaps, the most balanced team in the NFL.
It’ll be a fun one. There’s no doubt about it. And while many will scoff at the notion that Alex Smith can get it done when it matters most, we have different ideas.
Smith is a game manager. His arm is suspect and he simply cannot make dynamite plays like a Brady or Stafford can. However, Smith is a tremendous game-managing QB. He’s so good, in fact, that the add-on of explosive Tyreek Hill can make all the difference in the world.
Without a championship-caliber defense, the Steelers will fall at Arrowhead.
Chiefs 26, Steelers 17
NFC Divisional
4. Green Bay Packers (11-6) @ 1. Dallas Cowboys (13-3)
Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones would literally sell his soul to the devil himself if it meant a trip to the Super Bowl. It’s what Jones lives for. He craves it. He wants it. He foams at the mouth for it.
Could you imagine? Two weeks of Dallas Cowboys football leading up to the big game?
Jones would have to be physically placed in a straitjacket.
Unfortunately, the result of his team’s first home playoff game in quite some time will leave Mr. Jones upset.
It won’t be a Dallas disaster. While we expect Tony Romo to make a second-half cameo, it’ll ultimately be the suspect defense that does dooms their chances. Sean Lee, while a stud, can’t do everything.
We’ll take the Packers in the upset. It’ll just be one of those games that catches up with a team who sported a record better than its true talent. Yes, the Boys offensive line is, by far, the best unit in the league. But Dak Prescott‘s careful ways and the squad’s average defense will fail them when the money matters most.
Packers 30, Cowboys 20
3. Seattle Seahawks (11-5-1) @ 2. Atlanta Falcons (11-5)
Has there been a team who’s flown under the radar more than the Atlanta Falcons? No chance.
Matt Ryan, who could very easily come away with the league’s MVP this season, is finally back in the playoffs for the first time since 2012. Much like that 2012 season — that saw Atlanta carry a first round BYE — they’ll falter at home.
Seattle’s grittiness will turn out to be the x-factor. Guys like Bobby Wagner, Richard Sherman, Kam Chancellor, and, especially Russell Wilson, are just special-type players who make plays when it matters most.
Earl Thomas‘s absence is huge. He’s the best centerfielder in the game. We just cannot choose the fresh Falcons over the battle-tested Hawks.
Seahawks 24, Falcons 21, OT
AFC Championship Game
2. Kansas City Chiefs (13-4) @ 1. New England Patriots (15-2)
Is it possible that little old Alex Smith can knock off Tom Brady during his quest to stick it to Roger Goodell on the heels of the Deflategate suspension?
Well, no, he can’t. His team, on the other hand, absolutely can.
Prior to the season, we chose the Chiefs to represent the AFC in the Super Bowl because we felt they were the most complete team. We still believe that’s the case.
In the ultimate “complete team” against “great QB” matchup, Andy Reid’s Chiefs will make enough plays on defense to thwart Brady. And they’ll do it the only way you can against a great QB — with a traditional four-man rush.
Eric Berry and Tyreek Hill will be one-two punch on both sides of the ball that this superstar-starved Chiefs team has been missing the past few seasons. While Berry was around, he’s now back to his full stardom.
It’ll be a nail-biter, but one that sees the Chiefs shock the world.
Chiefs 24, Patriots 20
NFC Championship Game
4. Green Bay Packers (12-6) @ 3. Seattle Seahawks (12-5-1)
In the NFC’s version of Championship Sunday, the Seattle Seahawks will complete their interesting journey through the tournament (if all goes according to plan). They’ll first play at home, then go to Atlanta, and then return home to host the Pack in the NFC title game.
Unlike two seasons ago, however, in which Russell Wilson and the Hawks devastated the Packers with a late onside kick, this time will be extremely different.
Without Earl Thomas, Rodgers is going to slice up the Seahawks defense on the road. It’ll be one of the most legendary games in playoff QB history. At this point in the game, Seattle, who had gotten to this point on sheer will, will be severely outmatched by the hottest team on the planet, one that comes in with an eight-game winning streak.
Packers 41, Seahawks 14
Super Bowl LI
Green Bay Packers (13-6) vs. Kansas City Chiefs (14-4)
Though the Kansas City Chiefs will put up a great effort, nothing will stop Aaron Rodgers’s quest of a second Vince Lombardi Trophy.
It just feels right that one of the best QBs of our generation comes away with a second championship at this time in his career. The Chiefs tough defense just won’t be able to stop the mission A-Rod is on.
The Pack will come away with their fourth Super Bowl once 2016 is all said and done with.
SB MVP: Aaron Rodgers, GB-QB
Packers 22, Chiefs 13
Staff Predictions
Christian Kouroupakis, Editorial Director
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers 35, Dolphins 10
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Texans 21, Raiders 24
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Seahawks 21, Lions 13
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Packers 20, Giants 26
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs 5. Raiders: Patriots 30, Raiders 13
2. Chiefs vs 3. Steelers: Chiefs 16, Steelers 10
1. Cowboys vs 5. Giants: Giants 17, Cowboys 6
2. Falcons vs 3. Seahawks: Falcons 31, Seahawks 24
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
2. Falcons vs 5. Giants: Giants 21, Falcons 17
1. Patriots vs 2. Chiefs: Patriots 20, Chiefs 0
SUPER BOWL
Patriots vs Giants: Giants 17, Patriots 13
Billy Nayden, Editor-Giants Boss
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers 31-14
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Texans 17-6
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Lions 17-14
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Giants 20-13
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs: Texans, Patriots 24-3
2. Chiefs vs: Steelers, Chiefs 28-20
1. Cowboys vs: Lions, Cowboys 28-21
2. Falcons vs Giants, Giants 28-20
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
Patriots vs Chiefs, Chiefs 21-17
Cowboys vs Giants, Giants 20-17
SUPER BOWL
Giants vs Chiefs, Giants 17-14
Paul Esden Jr., Editor-Jets Boss
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Raiders
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Lions
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Packers
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs Raiders: Patriots
2. Chiefs vs Steelers: Steelers
1. Cowboys vs Lions: Cowboys
2. Falcons vs Packers: Falcons
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
1. Patriots vs Steelers: Steelers
Cowboys vs Falcons: Cowboys
SUPER BOWL
Cowboys vs Steelers: Cowboys get their 6th championship!
Justin Weiss, Editor
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers — There’s no contest. Even with Tannehill under center, the ‘Fins won’t stand a chance against the red-hot Steelers.
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Texans — These are two fledgling teams, but the later is injury-plagued — quarterback Derek Carr, guard Kelechi Osemele and safety Nate Allen have all been sidelined with bruises.
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Seahawks — Detroit is the league’s most resilient group, but they haven’t fared well against playoff-bound teams. The ‘Hawks don’t lose at home, and assuming they win the special teams battle, they’ll secure the ‘W’.
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Giants — These are two teams that have bounced back from poor starts, although the former defeated the later earlier in the season. Eli Manning has twice went through the Pack en route to the Super Bowl, and he’ll do that again this week.
DIVISIONAL ROUND:
1. Patriots vs 4. Texans: Patriots — The Pats will squash the Texans, who don’t exactly have stability under center.
2. Chiefs vs 3. Steelers: Chiefs — This isn’t the popular pick, but Kansas City just finds ways to score (plus, Andy Reid’s play-calling has been spot-on as of late).
1. Cowboys vs 5. Giants: Giants — Big Blue’s defense has twice stifled the Cowboys’ lethal rushing attack. They’ll be going up against an inexperienced, albeit poised, squad.
2. Falcons vs 3. Seahawks: Falcons — The ‘Hawks have barely squeaked out wins against bottom-feeder teams, so they’ll have trouble pulling out this one.
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY:
1. Patriots vs 2. Chiefs: Patriots — Tom Brady had the greatest TD-INT ratio in league history this season. The Chiefs rely on their defense to score, but that’s not going to work against the Pats.
2. Falcons vs 5. Giants: Giants — The Jints disguise their defensive packages better than any other team, which should give Matt Ryan fits.
SUPER BOWL:
1. Patriots vs 5. Giants: Patriots — Third time’s the charm for Bill Belichick’s squad.
Chris Wengert, Editor-Rangers Boss
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Raiders
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Lions
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Giants
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs: Raiders
2. Chiefs vs: Steelers
1. Cowboys vs: Giants
2. Falcons vs: Lions
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
Pats vs. Steelers
Giants vs. Lions
SUPER BOWL
Pats 21 vs. Giants 24
SUPER BOWL MVP
Eli Manning (again)
Gregg Cambareri, Editor
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers — Big Ben and Mike Tomlin aren’t dropping a home game to a first-year head coach. Although the Dolphins beat the Steelers earlier this season, this game isn’t in warm Miami, and with Ryan Tannehill likely out, the Steelers roll in round one 30-17.
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Raiders — Though the Raiders are without Derek Carr, they’re battle tested enough to get by the offensively challenged Texans on the road. Whether it be Connor Cook or Matt McGloin, Oakland has enough playmakers to squeak by 20-17.
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Seahawks — If there was ever a year to beat Seattle in their own dojo, it might be this season while Earl Thomas is out injured. However, the Lions have struggled on the road, and playing in the league’s most hostile environment won’t spell success. Seahawks 24, Lions 20.
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Packers — The rest of the NFC must be breathing a sigh of relief, as no two teams head into January with more momentum than the Packers and Giants. The G-men have had the Pack’s number over the past decade, but the law of averages says Aaron Rodgers and the red-hot Pack are due. Green Bay 27, New York 24.
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs: Raiders: Patriots — Let’s be honest here: A non-Derek Carr led team going into Foxborough isn’t coming out with a win. Brady and company continue their revenge tour with a 31-17 win.
2. Chiefs vs Steelers: Steelers — Kansas City’s balanced attack is thwarted by a Pittsburgh team that’s found their rhythm in the second half of the season. Big Ben and Alex Smith are in two different tiers, and the former leads his team to the AFC title game, 24-19.
1. Cowboys vs Packers: Packers — Dak Prescott and Ezekiel Elliot have a long successful future ahead of them. However, the two rookie standouts get upended by a veteran Green Bay squad that seemingly can’t be stopped. Pack 34, Dallas 27.
2. Falcons vs Seahawks: Falcons — Does Matt Ryan finally win a big game? He does, as Seattle isn’t nearly as dangerous at home. The Falcons bend but don’t break defense just does enough to support their high-powered offense, Atlanta 24, Seattle, 21.
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
New England vs Pittsburgh: Patriots — There’s a reason why the Pats were determined to lock up home-field advantage in the postseason. Only the Baltimore Ravens have won in Foxborough during the Brady era, and New England’s mistake free offense spots them enough points to win against an equally high scoring Steeler’s squad. Pats 31, Steelers 20.
Green Bay at Atlanta: Packers — In a rematch of one of the best regular season games from 2016, the Packers and Falcons enter another shootout in the Georgia Dome. This time, it’s Green Bay winning the close one 34-31.
SUPER BOWL
New England vs Green Bay: Patriots — It’s amazing to think Tom Brady and Aaron Rodgers have never squared off in the big game yet isn’t it? The league’s two best QB’s go head to head in Houston, as the Pats top the Pack 26-24. The difference? Bill Belichick is a far superior coach than Mike McCarthy.
SUPER BOWL MVP
Tom Brady — Who did you think it would be? Brady extracts his Deflategate revenge on Goodell and the rest of the NFL with a Lombardi trophy and an MVP.
Chris Boccia, Senior Writer
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers 31-27
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Texans 26-10
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Seahawks 20-13
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Packers 24-16
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs 4. Texans: Patriots 24-17
2. Chiefs vs 3. Steelers: Chiefs 31-28
1. Cowboys vs 4. Packers: Cowboys 34-30
2. Falcons vs 3. Seahawks: Seahawks 20-17
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
1. Cowboys vs. 3. Seahawks: Cowboys 27-21
1. Patriots vs. 2. Chiefs: Patriots 33-24
SUPER BOWL
Patriots over Cowboys 34-30
Jeff Weisinger, Advisor
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Raiders
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Lions
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Giants
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs Raiders: Patriots
2. Chiefs vs Steelers: Chiefs
1. Cowboys vs Lions: Cowboys
2. Falcons vs Giants: Giants
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
Giants at Cowboys: Giants
Chiefs at Patriots: Patriots
SUPER BOWL
Giants vs Patriots: Giants
Skylar Darel, Staff Writer
Wild Card:
Steelers over Dolphins
Texans over Raiders
Seahawks over Lions
Giants over Packers
Patriots over Texans
steelers over Chiefs
Giants over Cowboys
Seahawks over Falcons
Steelers over Patriots
Giants over Seahawks
Giants over Steelers
MVP: Odell Beckham
Usually pessimistic about New York sports, especially the teams I like, I’ve decided to go gung-ho in favor of the Giants. They have a tremendous defense that is relatively healthy, tremendous special teams, the best wideout in football, and a historically good postseason quarterback.
If the Giants defeat Green Bay, I’m confident of their chances to run the table. Of course, I could eat my words — or rather, Aaron Rodgers could force me to. Here’s hoping for some more De-Ja-Blue this January/February.
Allison Case, Staff Writer
Wild Card Round:
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers — It’s Big Ben and Le’Veon Bell. There’s really no competition. In Pittsburgh? The Steelers have the clear advantage for cruising into the next round. The Dolphins might have gotten the worst draw after such a great and unexpected run this season, but the Steelers will come out on top.
4. Texans vs. 5. Raiders: Raiders — Although the Raiders don’t have Derek Carr, I still think they’ll overcome a lackluster Texans offense. Both have limped into the playoffs but I see the Raiders doing what they’ve done all season without Carr. I think they would be a shoe-in to win with Carr, but with either Cook or McGloin manning the offense against the 12th ranked rushing defense, they’ll come out on top in a close game.
3. Seahawks vs. 6. Lions: Seahawks — I want to believe in the Lions so badly. So badly. I enjoy watching Matt Stafford play and he’s had a great season. But they’ve entered the playoffs on a losing streak and haven’t looked great in these past few weeks. Coupled with playing in Seattle, the biggest home field advantage any team can have, I can’t imagine them beating the Seahawks.
4. Packers vs. 5. Giants: Packers — You all probably know by now that I’m a huge Dallas Cowboys fan. I respect the Giants but I don’t think they’re going to be able to stop the roll the Packers have right now. They ran the table, just like Aaron Rodgers said, and Rodgers has been one of the best quarterbacks in the league for the past six weeks. The Giants need offense…their defense is phenomenal but their offense has been lacking. Expect the Packers to cover Odell Beckham Jr. hard because he’s currently the only legitimate offensive threat.
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs: Raiders: Patriots — With a Carr-less Raiders team, they’ll make it past the first round but will fall victim to the playoff-ready Patriots squad. With Oakland’s 23rd ranked rushing defense and LaGarrette Blount already dominating, he’ll have himself a game. These guys are tested in the playoffs and know what to do. Inexperience will be the Raider’s downfall.
2. Chiefs vs: Steelers: Chiefs — Steelers may have gotten an easy draw the first round but they’ll meet their match in Kansas City. Kansas City has a lot of weapons around the field but they’ve also come into the playoffs red hot. After last season’s devastating loss to the New England Patriots, after winning their first playoff game in 22 years, they are back with a vengeance. Big Ben will be no match for Kansas City on their home turf.
1. Cowboys vs: Packers: Cowboys — I like this match-up. I like it a lot. It brings back memories of the Dez “almost-catch” and just how evenly matched they were two seasons ago. While Aaron Rodgers may be hot, Prescott and the ‘Boys are also hot. In Dallas, the Cowboys have one loss, which was also a close game. This magical season will continue, especially knowing that Dallas’ back-up QB in Tony Romo is at the ready no matter what.
2. Falcons vs Seahawks: Falcons — The battle of the birds will go to Matt Ryan and the Falcons. Ryan is in MVP contention and he has carried that team to stellar heights this season. The Seahawks can win on the road, but they are too inconsistent this year to even consider beating the Falcons. Atlanta will continue their streak and find their way to Dallas.
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
Chiefs at Patriots: Patriots — Just like last season, the Chief’s magical run will end at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots are simply too strong to fall right now and they’ll continue to utilize the various weapons on the field that will prove to be too much for the Chiefs. MVP of this game will be Julien Edelman.
Falcons at Cowboys: Falcons — This pains me to write. The Cowboys will find their demise in the Atlanta Falcons. Ryan and Julio Jones will lead the way and trounce the Cowboys. The truth is, their passing defense will be unable to keep up with Ryan, who doesn’t just rely on one target. He has thrown touchdown passes to 13 different receivers this season. It’ll be a closer game than we think, but the Falcons will come out on top.
Matt Ryan will leave with the MVP.
SUPER BOWL
Falcons vs. Patriots: Patriots
This is a battle of the big arms. The battle of the MVPs. The biggest shootout in Super Bowl history. With Tom Brady vs. Matt Ryan, the game will be so much fun. However, the Patriots experience and Brady’s chip on the shoulder will find the Patriots lifting the Lombardi Trophy once again. Sorry, Roger Goodell, but the Patriots are just too good.
MVP will be LaGarrette Blount.
Bold Prediction: Roger Goodell does not show up to the game.
Jason Leach, Staff Writer
Wildcard Round
AFC
Raiders at Texans: Texans
Dolphins at Steelers Steelers
NFC
Lions at Seahawks: Seahawks
Giants at Packers: Giants
Divisional Round
AFC
Steelers at Chiefs: Steelers
Texans at Patriots: Patriots
NFC
Seahawks at Falcons: Falcons
Giants at Cowboys: Giants
Conference Championship
Steelers at Patriots: Steelers
Giants at Falcons: Giants
Super Bowl LI, Giants 24, Steelers 23
Ty Butler, Staff Writer
Wild Card Round
3. Steelers vs. 6. Dolphins: It’s simple. One team has Ben Roethlisberger, who’s one of the best quarterbacks in the league with two rings. The other has Matt Moore. Need I say more? Pittsburgh wins 27-20.
4. Texans vs. 5. Raiders: It feels like no team is more deserving a playoff win than Oakland, who at one point was one of the best in the league but suffered the unfortunate event of losing Derek Carr to injury. Meanwhile, no team deserves a win less than Houston. But being at home with a stout defense, the Texans win 16-13.
3. Seahawks vs. 6. Lions: Detroit began the season 9-4 and had a chance at a first round bye, but settled for the sixth seed with three straight losses to end the season. Seattle doesn’t appear to be the contender we’re accustoming to seeing. But at home, front of the 12’s, the Seahawks win 27-20.
4. Packers vs. 5. Giants: This is unequivocally the most exciting matchup on the docket featuring the two hottest teams in the NFC. I happen to believe they both pose the biggest threat to the 14-2 Cowboys. Aaron Rodgers delivers again. Packers 27-20.
Divisional Round
1. Patriots vs. 4. Texans: Remember when the Pats blanked the Texans 27-0 in Week 3….without Tom Brady? Good luck Houston. Another bye week for the Pats. 27-13 New England wins.
2. Chiefs vs. 3. Steelers: This will actually be entertaining. In the 4th quarter, can Alex Smith outduel Big Ben? I don’t believe so. Pittsburgh wins 27-24
1. Cowboys vs. 4. Packers: This is a revenge game for both teams. Remember the Dez Bryant catch or no catch game that ended the season for Dallas in the 2014 playoffs? Well, this year, Dak Prescott and the ‘Boys went to Lambeau and smacked the Packers around by two touchdowns. Aaron Rodgers delivers again. 31-27 Green Bay.
2. Falcons vs. 3. Seahawks: This will be a rematch from Week 7 when the Seahawks won by two points at home over Atlanta. Julio Jones was stymied by an uncalled defensive pass interference call on Richard Sherman. Atlanta gets even in a big way. Falcons win 30-27
Championship round
1. Patriots vs. 3. Steelers: Big Ben vs. Tom Brady for a chance to get to the Super Bowl. This has fun written all over it. It will be a high scoring affair, but one won by Brady and crew. It’s in Foxborough, the Steelers defense will have no answer for Pats offense and the Pats No. 1 scoring defense will make enough stops. 34-27 Pats.
2. Falcons vs. 4. Packers: A battle of the top two MVP candidates. Ryan threw for 38 touchdowns to just seven interceptions. Rodgers was a tad better with 40 touchdowns to seven interceptions (he also had four rushing). During the season when they met, this came down to a game-winning drive won by the Falcons after Ryan hooked up with Mohammad Sanu. Green Bay gets a late stop and stuns Atlanta in the Dome, 31-24.
Super Bowl
1. Patriots vs. 4. Packers: The matchup we’ve been waiting for. In the NBA, we were robbed of LeBron vs. Kobe, sadly. But now we’ll have the two best QBs in the league squaring off in a legacy-cementing game. A win for Brady gives him five and there’s never a conversation about who the best QB of all time is. One for Rodgers silences all the haters who said he was washed and would never win again. What a sensational game we’ll get. Green Bay wins. Stay tuned for what the score will be as we get closer.
Garrett Ey, Staff Writer
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Raiders
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Seahawks
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Giants
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs 5. Raiders: Patriots
2. Chiefs vs 3. Steelers: Chiefs
1. Cowboys vs 5. Giants: Giants
2. Falcons vs 3. Seahawks: Falcons
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
Falcons vs Giants: Falcons
Patriots vs Chiefs: Chiefs
SUPER BOWL
Falcons vs Chiefs: Falcons
SUPER BOWL MVP
Matt Ryan
Anthony Pugliese, Staff Writer
Wild Card Round
3. Steelers over 6. Dolphins 31-17
5. Raiders over 4. Texans 17-13
3. Seahawks over 6. Lions 21-17
4. Packers over 5. Giants 31-21
Divisional Round
1. Patriots over 5. Raiders 41-17
3. Steelers over 2. Chiefs 27-24
4. Packers over 1. Cowboys 31-28
2. Falcons over 3. Seahawks 34-27
Championship Sunday
1. Patriots over 3. Steelers 28-27
4. Packers over 2. Falcons 27-24
Super Bowl
4. Packers over 1. Patriots 21-17
Tom Brady’s bid to stick it to commissioner Goodell falls just short as the Packers have caught fire at the right time and go on to win Super Bowl LI
David Hong, Staff Writer
Wild Card
Texans over Raiders
Seahawks over Lions
Steelers over Dolphins
Giants over Packers
Divisional Round
Seahawks over Falcons
Patriots over Texans
Steelers over Chiefs
Giants over Cowboys
Championship Sunday
Seahawks over Giants
Patriots over Steelers
Super Bowl
Seahawks over Patriots
Super Bowl MVP: Russell Wilson
Vin Vento, Contributor
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers 31, Dolphins 17
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Texans 13, Raiders 17
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Seahawks 38, Lions 10
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Packers 27, Giants 24
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs 5. Raiders: Patriots 34, Raiders 17
2. Chiefs vs 3. Steelers: Chiefs 24, Steelers 20
1. Cowboys vs 4. Packers: Cowboys 28, Packers 31
2. Falcons vs 3. Seahawks: Falcons 35, Seahawks 17
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
1. Patriots vs 2. Chiefs: Patriots 27, Chiefs 23
2. Falcons vs 4. Packers: Falcons 38, Packers 35
SUPER BOWL
Patriots vs Falcons: Patriots 32, Falcons 25
SUPER BOWL MVP
Tom Brady (Because, of course)
Matthew Castillo, Contributor
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers 27 Dolphins 17
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Texans 17 Raiders 9
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Seahawks 23 Lions 20
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Packers 27 Giants 24
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs: Texans: Patriots a whole lot the Texans very little 30-10
2. Chiefs vs: Steelers: Chiefs 20 Steelers 24
1. Cowboys vs: Packers: Cowboys 23 Packers 27
2. Falcons vs: Seahawks: 23 Seahawks 20
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
Patriots vs Steelers: Patriots 31 Steelers 27
Falcons vs Packers: Falcons 24 Packers 30
SUPER BOWL
Patriots 30 Packers 23
Feel disgusting predicted the pats to win see them playing the Packers though they are red hot at the right time.
Leslie Monteiro, Contributor
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers — Hard to believe Dolphins backup quarterback Matt Moore is going to keep up with Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Raiders — The Texans have not finished strong, and does anyone trust former Rutgers quarterback Tom Savage or Brock Osweiler?The Texans have not finished strong, and does anyone trust former Rutgers quarterback Tom Savage or Brock Osweiler?
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Seahawks — As a Lions fan, I am not looking forward on Saturday. I am realistic enough to know the Lions have no shot. They don’t play well outdoors. The Lions
defense stinks. Matthew Stafford is a mental midget. The Lions went 0-5 against elite teams this year, and they are heading to the playoffs with a three-game losing streak. This is hardly
encouraging. Best matchup for the Seahawks.
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Giants — Giants defense will be the difference-maker here. They can make Aaron Rodgers look like an ordinary quarterback. Eli Manning does not have
to be special to win playoff games. All he has to do is be efficient, and the Giants defense can take care of the rest. Eli can do that on Sunday.
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs: Raiders: Patriots — The Raiders will realize they are not playing the Texans anymore when they play at Foxborough. Hard to imagine Matt McGloin or Connor Cook
leading the Raiders to win at Gillette Stadium. This is another bye week for the Patriots.
2. Chiefs vs: Steelers: Chiefs — Like the Steelers, the Chiefs are the hottest team in football right now. Going with the Chiefs here for two reasons. 1) The Chiefs
defense is much better than the Steelers defense. 2) It’s hard for a road team to win at Arrowhead Stadium.
1. Cowboys vs: Giants: Giants — The Giants have been 2-0 against the Cowboys this season, and it’s hard to believe this will be different, The Giants have been Cowboys rookie phenom quarterback Dak Prescott’s kryptonite this season.
The Giants defense will make this postseason stage be too big for Prescott. Plus, the Giants are confident when they play the Cowboys. They are not afraid to boast that to the media. Again, Manning does not have to do too much in this game.
2. Falcons vs Seahawks: Seahawks — Why not? They have the defense to fluster Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan. The next time Ryan plays a great playoff game will be his first. The Seahawks have shown they can win games on the road.
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
Chiefs vs. Patriots: Chiefs — The Chiefs have been the complete team in football this season. Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith can match Patriots quarterback Tom Brady on the road.
The Chiefs defense can get to Brady by blitzing him. The Chiefs are the one team that is capable of winning at Gillette Stadium.
Giants vs. Seahawks: Seahawks — Going to Seattle will be the Giants’ downfall. Yes, it will be a defensive donnybrook. The Giants defense will be up for the challenge. But this is a game where Eli Manning has to play like an elite quarterback. It’s hard to believe he can get it done in front of the Crazy 12s at Qwest Field. The Seahawks defense will get to him. The Giants have been road warriors during their Super Bowl championship years during the Eli Manning era, but going to Qwest Field is just a different animal.
SUPER BOWL
Chiefs vs. Seahawks: Chiefs — The Chiefs have been the best team in football all season from my eye test. This is a team that is for real. This is the most complete team. They are explosive on offense and defense is much better Seattle’s. The Chiefs have everything going for them. Their defense will give Russell Wilson fits.
Donny Savitsky, Contributor
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers 30-14
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Texans 24-14
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Seahawks 27-10
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Giants 27-24
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs: Texans, Patriots 42-13
2. Chiefs vs: Steelers, Steelers 27-23
1. Cowboys vs: Giants, Cowboys 17-14
2. Falcons vs: Seahawks, Saahawks 30-28
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
Partiots vs Steelers, Steelers 28-27
Cowboys vs Seahawks, Cowboys 27-17
SUPER BOWL (fill out matchup and winner):
Steelers vs Cowboys, Steelers 35-31
SUPER BOWL MVP
Le’Veon Bell
Alex Jordan, Contributor
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Raiders
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Seahawks
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Packers
DIVISIONAL ROUND (fill out opponent and winner, lowest advancing seed plays No. 1):
1. Patriots vs Raiders: Patriots
2. Chiefs vs Steelers: Steelers
1. Cowboys vs Packers: Packers
2. Falcons vs Seahawks: Seahawks
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
Patriots vs. Steelers: Patriots
Packers vs. Seahawks: Packers
SUPER BOWL
Patriots vs. Packers: Patriots
Christian Rabinowitz, Contributor
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Dolphins 24-18
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Texans 10-7
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: lions 20-14
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Giants 31-28
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs: Patriots over Dolphins 31-10
2. Chiefs vs: chiefs over Texans 17-3
1. Cowboys vs: cowboys over lions 27-20
2. Falcons vs: Giants over Falcons 31-20
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
Cowboys vs Giants: Giants over cowboys 27-14
Patriots vs Chiefs: Patriots over Chiefs 28-14
SUPER BOWL
Patriots vs Giants: Giants once again top the patriots in a 28-21 win
Eli Manning wins MVP
John Romano, Contributor
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Raiders
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Lions
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Packers
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs: Raiders: Pats
2. Chiefs vs: Steelers: Steelers
1. Cowboys vs: Lions: Cowboys
2. Falcons vs: Packers: Packers
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
Packers vs Cowboys: Cowboys
Pats vs Steelers: Pats
SUPER BOWL
Cowboys vs Pats: Pats
SUPER BOWL MVP
Tom Brady
Rory Sasson, Contributor
WILD CARD ROUND
3. Steelers vs 6. Dolphins: Steelers 27, Dolphins 10
4. Texans vs 5. Raiders: Raiders 17, Texans 6
3. Seahawks vs 6. Lions: Seahawks 20, Lions 3
4. Packers vs 5. Giants: Giants 28, Packers 17
DIVISIONAL ROUND
1. Patriots vs: Raiders: Patriots 27, Raiders 3
2. Chiefs vs: Steelers: Chiefs 23, Steelers 17
1. Cowboys vs: Giants: Giants 20, Cowboys 7
2. Falcons vs: Seahawks: Falcons 34, Seahawks 17
CHAMPIONSHIP SUNDAY
Patriots vs. Chiefs: Patriots 24, Chiefs 21
Falcons vs. Giants: Giants 30, Falcons 20
SUPER BOWL
Patriots vs. Giants: Patriots 23, Giants 16
SUPER BOWL MVP: Tom Brady