AFC Play-off Breakdowns/ Predictions

5. Indianapolis Colts (12-4) at 4. San Diego Chargers (8-8)
The Colts have been cruising and San Diego barely made it into the play-offs. If not for good fortune and a choke job by Denver we wouldn't be talking about the Chargers, however, the Chargers pose a scary match-up for the cruising Colts.
For Indy
Peyton Manning is playing like an MVP again even with Joseph Addai being banged up all season. Marvin Harrison and Reggie Wayne remain one of the top recieving corps in the NFL, with Dallas Clark and Anthony Gonzalez being way above average check downs. The defense goes as far as Bob Sanders goes, and if he remains healthy I expect Indy to have enough defense to stop San Diego.

For San Diego
San Diego plays tough defense and their offense led by Phillip Rivers can be very efficient. LT and Darren Sproles bring a tough two headed ground game against a soft Colts run defense and if they get going San Diego can easily steal this one.

Prediction: I expect the Colts to win this won in a shootout. Peyton Manning is better than Rivers. LT tends to disappear during play off games, and the Colts have been just too good to be one and done.

6. Baltimore Ravens (11-5) at 3. Miami Dolphins (11-5)
Baltimore has one of the scariest defenses in the NFL, while Miami somehow made the play-offs.

For Baltimore
Baltimores defense is one of the quickest plus best tackling defenses in the NFL, thus making them the instant favorite of this game. Le'Ron McLain and Willis McGahee have been viable rushing options all year, while Flacco is in the "game manager" category. I think if Baltimore plays with the ferocity they have been all year, this game is in the bag.

For Miami:
The Dolphins won the AFC East and have been able to win games by trickery and luck. I don't take the Dolphins too seriously, but you have to give it to them. Chad Pennington would most likely be my MVP pick and this team continues to play mistake free football.

Prediction:
The Ravens will win this one easily and play one of the most physical games of all time when they go to Pittsburgh.

Rest:
Pitt beats Baltimore
Indy upsets Tennessee

Pitt beats Indy