Playoffs? Yep, they're here! After another 17 week regular season, the Wild-Card round begins this afternoon with the rematch between NY Jets and Cincinnati Bengals, followed by what could be the game of the weekend. Philadelphia travels to Dallas for the third meeting this season between these NFC East rivals. Time for analysis and predictions! It's the Opening Drive of Wild-Card Saturday!
(9-7) New York Jets at (10-6) Cincinnati Bengals
4:30PM ET NBC
For the J-E-T-S, they've been playing playoff games for weeks. With help from a resting Colts squad and a half-hearted Bengals effort last week, the Jets find themselves in the playoffs behind a rookie quarterback who has thrown a hearty 20 interceptions. Rex Ryan has brought a swagger to the team, leading to their having the highest-rated defense and running game in the NFL.
After getting shut-out last week on the road 37-0 by these same Jets, the Bengals return home hoping to avoid a similar result. After so many years featuring a dynamic and explosive offense, Marvin Lewis has focused on a smash-mouth style running game behind Cedric Benson. Receiver Chad Ochocinco is Carson Palmer's only legitimate outside weapon, but he's not the deep threat he once was. Cincy's D was rated fourth overall during the regular season, holding teams to an average of 300 yards a game. Their starting corners Joseph and Hall are vastly under-appreciated.
Analysis: Had this been the Bengals from a few years ago, I would have given this match-up to Cincy's high-powered offense. Now? The Jets seem to be tailor-made to go on the road and get a cold-weather win. All-Pro corner Darelle Revis will have no trouble shutting down Ochocinco, leaving the rest of the defense to pressure Palmer and keeping Benson under wraps. New York's offensive success hinges on the play (or lack thereof) of Mark Sanchez. If he has to throw the ball more than 20-22 times, the Jets are going to lose. He puts too many throws up for grabs, throws the Bengals will intercept. Cincy needs to shut down Thomas Jones and the NY running game to force Sanchez into obvious passing downs.
Prediction: The Bengals are currently favored with a 2.5 point spread. Cincy's best ball this year is behind them. I love the Jets for the straight-up win.
(11-5) Philadelphia Eagles at (11-5) Dallas Cowboys
8:00PM ET NBC
Surrounded by a rapidly-developing core of young talent, Donovan McNabb has his Eagles back in the playoffs anxious to to capture that elusive Super Bowl win. DeSean Jackson is the most explosive receiver in the league, but he also returns punts, making him a game-planning headache for opposing coaches. Brent Celek hasn't been mentioned enough as one of the best tight ends in the NFC while LeSean McCoy has filled in admirably for Brain Westbrook at running back. Losing to the Cowboys twice this year has Andy Reid's Eagles on edge.
Breaking their December curse, the Cowboys are playing some of their best football in years. Tony Romo has never been better, bolstered by a three-headed running attack fronted by the bruising Marion Barber. Miles Austin is a game-changer at receiver, Jason Witten is an-all purpose and All-Pro tight end and Roy Williams is finally starting to mesh in this Dallas offense. The real strength of this Cowboy team is Wade Philips' defense. DeMarcus Ware, Jay Ratliff and Anthony Spencer have been harassing QB's all season, but they have a special affinity for hitting McNabb.
Analysis: After a close win early in the year, Dallas came back and shut out an Eagles team that had plenty to play for. At Cowboys Stadium, the fans won't let up if their 'Boys get out to an early lead. Marion Barber may be the ground pounder of the running backs, but Felix Jones needs to show up big tonight. Romo must keep playing efficient football and let his outstanding defense make plays. Dallas must be physical with the Eagles' speedy wide-outs and put McNabb on the ground often. Andy Reid knows his offense won't miss as many opportunities downfield as they did last week, but they can't rely on the big play. Long, sustained drives will keep the blitzing Philly defense fresh and put the Dallas pass rush on their heels.
Prediction: Dallas is the favorite with a 3.5 point spread. I think the third meeting will be somewhere between the first two, but with the same result. Take Dallas.
I'll be back with a preview of Sunday's Wild-Card action! Enjoy the games everyone! You can keep up with my in-game tweets on Twitter: @JoeAnello
Keywords: Andy Reid, Carson Palmer, Cedric Benson, Chad Ochocinco, Cincinnati Bengals, Dallas Cowboys, Darelle Revis, DeMarcus Ware, DeSean Jackson, Donovan McNabb, Jets, Joe Anello, Marion Barber, Mark Sanchez, Marvin Lewis, Miles Austin, New York, NFL, NFL playoffs, Philadelphia Eagles, Rex Ryan, Thomas Jones, Tony Romo, Wade Philips
