Well, my fellow football fans, this is it. After a long and grueling regular season, one that was filled with uncertainty, and an equally as wild playoff run… we’re coming to the end of our football journey. For the Conference Championships are in the books, and the teams that will play in Super Bowl LV in Tampa in two weeks, have been decided. But before we ponder upon the strengths and weaknesses of each team and what it will take for them to win the Lombardi Trophy, let’s reflect upon Sunday’s slightly disappointing games and what they taught us about the AFC and NFC Champions. 

It turns out that Tom Brady is the big reason why the Patriots won so many Super Bowls.
If there is one universal truth about Tom Brady that all of us can agree upon, it would have to be that it is impossible to not talk about him in some capacity. Because this guy has found way to dominate the football conversation for over two decades now and just when we thought discussions surrounding him would end, he found a way to stay relevant again. And all it took to make that happen, was for him to win the NFC Championship Game. But regardless of whether you’re eager to talk about his latest Super Bowl appearance or outright ignore it, his accomplishments cannot be denied, nor can the fact that this big win puts to bed a big controversy surrounding his career.
 
Because for some time now the conversation revolving around Tom has focused upon whether it was Bill Belichick and his offensive system that earned Tom six Super Bowl rings, or if Tom was the reason that the Pats kept winning it all and it turns out… it was the latter. Because #12 took a mediocre Bucs offense, one that was cobbled together with as many free agents as possible, and turned it into an outright machine, the kind that won the NFC title game and brought the Bucs back into the championship fold and well, that makes it inherently clear that Tom is a supremely special player. One worthy of the nickname ‘GOAT’ and now he gets the chance to play in his tenth Super Bowl and potentially win a seventh super Bowl ring.
 
There is no team in the AFC equipped to beat the Kansas City Chiefs.
Whenever a particular team in a conference figures out how to win the whole enchilada, teams that have to face the newly minted champs on a regular basis, begin to alter their rosters in a manner that is clearly designed to beat or keep up with the champions. Which is why you’ve seen every team in the AFC West load up on offensive and defensive weapons via the draft and free agency. But despite the AFC’s best efforts to catch up, they simply haven’t done enough to turn the tide. As evidenced by yesterday’s AFC Championship game. 
 
Because despite having a stout defense and a superstar at quarterback, the Buffalo Bills could not stop Patrick Mahomes, nor could they break free of the Chiefs defense. Which just goes to show that teams in the AFC are going to have to work harder in the draft and in free agency in order to beat Kansas City. Because the Chiefs are deep with talent at every position, and that’s brought them to their second straight Super Bowl, and they have real potential to win it and build a dynasty. Because they really are the most complete team in the NFL right now and they are going to give Tampa Bay fits in two weeks when Super Bowl LV gets underway.  

It is definitely safe to say that everyone, everywhere, eagerly awaits the first Sunday in February. For this is when the Super Bowl takes place, and the sheer wonder that Super Bowl Sunday sends our way is so incredibly energizing that it truly has become a can't miss event. But while we all circle our calendars to highlight that special day and make advance plans for the obligatory watch party, it is important to remember exactly how we arrive at this particular point in the NFL Season. Because it is the playoffs, that are critical to the creation of The Big Game and one particular round not only decides who will play in the Super Bowl, but it also tends to offer up games that are as epic as the title matchup itself.
 
For Championship Sunday is a day when four teams fight hard for a chance to hoist the Lombardi Trophy, and that often means that Championship Sunday offers up some breathtaking play, since everyone involved knows what is at stake and well, that means we are likely in for one heck of a treat tomorrow. For the Conference Championships are upon us and this year's title matchups, features some top-tier teams, the kind that will undoubtedly provide us with some serious on-field thrills and with that in mind… the time has come to preview what we can expect from this epic day of football, one that will set the stage for Super Bowl LV.

THE BUZZ
Make no mistake about it, what has everyone eager to watch this game, are the two seasoned quarterbacks leading these particular teams. Because Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady have done it all in this league. They’ve earned the title of MVP, they’ve been to the playoffs and won the whole enchilada in the Super Bowl and well, they’re also damn good football players as well and that likely means we are going to see a lot of points on the board in this one, since these two QBs know how to find the end zone and exploit whatever opportunity an opposing defense gives them. Plus this game also has a little sentimental value hanging over it as well, since Brady and Rodgers are nearing the end of their careers and want to cement their hall of fame legacies, and winning this game... would go a long way in helping them both accomplish that goal.
 
KEYS TO THE GAME
At first glance, it really does seem as though this particular game is going to be an outright shootout. Since it features two legendary quarterbacks that know how to score at will. But believe it or not, there are some specific things that both teams can do to take charge of this game. For Tampa Bay, that involves playing some aggressive defense to try and slow Rodgers down, and they will also need to execute some long sustained scoring drives on offense. The kind that keeps the Green Bay offense off the field to minimize the damage it can and will do. And as for the Packers, well they need to let Aaron Rodgers be Aaron Rodgers and on defense, they need to just go after Brady. Because it is no secret that tight man cover and a heavy blitz scheme will frustrate him and force him to make mistakes and honestly... it is that psychological weakness on Tom Brady's part that makes me believe that Green Bay will be the one to represent the NFC in Super Bowl LV.

​THE BUZZ
There are a lot of reasons to be excited about this particular game. Such as the fact that the Buffalo Bills are back in the Conference Championship game and they’re playing some downright incredible football right now. Plus, as of press time, Patrick Mahomes has cleared concussion protocol and is ready to compete for his second AFC Title and well… that likely means we are going to be in for an action packed game. One that will wow us with big bombs through the air and epic plays and you can never go wrong with a title game that features two teams with something to prove. For the Chiefs want to show the world they didn’t get lucky in the slightest last year and the Bills want to prove to the football world that they are elite, and all of that will definitely help to make tomorrow night's game, a memorable one.
 
KEYS TO THE GAME
As silly as it sounds, this game is going to come down to one thing, and one thing alone… defense. Because both of these squads love to play ‘bend but don’t break’ defense and that’s been problematic at times, since it’s kept their respective opponents in the game more often than either team would like, and while Buffalo and Kansas City have escaped any major trouble from that, thus far, it is going to cost someone in this game. So really, the first team that shores up their D is the one to win and honestly, if I had to guess which squad will pull that off, it would have to be Kansas City. Because their Divisional Round game last week showed everyone just how badly they want to build a dynasty out west and that drive, along with Mahomes’ magic arm, will likely carry the Kansas City Chiefs to their second AFC title and a chance to win a second championship, in Super Bowl LV.  

Normally, the Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs features a couple of stinker games. The kind that usually feature a blowout ending for a team that got lucky during Wild Card Weekend and has no place being in round two. But this year’s Divisional Round didn’t suffer from that problem in the slightest. Sure, there were some lopsided matchups, but they didn’t become that until the 4th Quarter and everything that preceded that unfortunate finale for some teams, was nothing short of stunning football. The kind that quite frankly allowed for the best teams to advance to Championship Sunday. But before we start digging into the Conference Championships, and who might represent the AFC and NFC in the Super Bowl, let’s reflect upon this round of the playoffs, one last time.
 
The Los Angeles Rams are in desperate need of some offensive weapons.
One of the big reasons that the Rams reached the Super Bowl a couple of years back, was their offense. Because they had a potent run game that helped for Jared Goff to do his thing through the air, which in turn, allowed for this team to put up big points and help their defense out. But alas, those days are long gone now, as evidenced by Saturday’s outcome. Because the lack of a solid running game and a transformative receiver or tight end, stymied the Rams’ chances at advancing. Which means that this offseason, it is critical that they either draft or sign some top-tier offensive weapons for Mister Goff to utilize, otherwise their playoff woes will continue to persist.
 
There needs to be some serious soul searching in Baltimore, this offseason.
One thing that we can all agree upon, is that the Ravens are indeed a talented team, one that has proven time and time again that they can win big games… in the regular season. But when everything is on the line in the playoffs, or the going gets tough, they simply crumble and that is going to require this team to do some serious soul searching this offseason. Because talent alone doesn’t win you big games; it takes drive and leadership and hunger and desire. None of which we are seeing from this offense right now and it is up to them to figure out how to bring that to the surface of their play, and if they cannot, then this team is going to have to deal with more early exits from the playoffs.
 
The Cleveland Browns will be quite the formidable team in years to come.
Make no mistake about it, Cleveland’s loss to Kansas City on Sunday was downright heartbreaking for certain. Because they closed the gap on the scoreboard to a single touchdown, and given one last chance with the ball, they might have upset the Chiefs and advanced to the AFC Championship for the first time in forever. But alas, it was simply not meant to be. But while that is a tough way to see a season end, there are a lot of positives to be found in this loss. Because it goes to show that this team has the right mix of talent on offense, and that they can achieve wonders when given the opportunity and that they are also super close to competing for a title. Which means that this team will be formidable for years to come and if by chance they make some appropriate tweaks on defense, they will definitely advance beyond the Divisional Round, down the road.
 
It appears as though Drew Brees won’t get a storybook NFL Ending, after all.
Truly, every player out there wants to end their career in the same manner as John Elway and Jerome Bettis and Peyton Manning. Wherein they are able to hoist the Lombardi Trophy one last time before setting off into the sunset. But that ending is rare for certain and sadly, it is one that will likely elude Drew Brees. Because while he didn’t commit to retirement in his 'end of season' presser, his tearful, farewell lap around the Mercedes-Benz Superdome… truly made it seem as though the end of his career was in sight. But while his career may not end with confetti and a gentle kiss for the Lombardi Trophy, he still has a lot to be proud of. Since he has all kinds of incredible passing records under his belt and one championship ring to boot and that's huge. Because not every quarterback can say that, and storybook ending or no, Drew Brees will indeed go down as one of the greats, regardless of how his career comes to an end. 

​Something that every football fan can agree upon, is that the playoffs are truly the most exciting time of the NFL calendar year. Simply because this is it, winner take all, lose and go home and those particular mantras allow for some hard-fought football to take place as teams do their best to try and advance to the next round. But this year, it really seems as though there is more excitement surrounding the playoffs than usual and I think that is related to the fact that the remaining teams in the tournament, are top-notch to say the least. Which means that we are likely in for some epic games, the kind that will offer up some high scores and thrilling finishes and with that in mind, let’s dive right in and preview all of the matchups that await us, in the Divisional Round.

HOW THESE TEAMS REACHED THE DIVISIONAL ROUND
This particular matchup features a pair of teams that took some unique paths to get to this particular point. The Los Angeles Rams for instance, had to fight tooth and nail to get here, since their regular season wasn’t as dominant as they had hoped. But they did just enough to get in, and they did get a big win in the Wild Card round over a divisional rival, and they will take on a team that breezed their way into the playoffs. Because outside of a couple of off games, the Packers straight up dominated the NFC this year, to the point where they earned the number one seed and the bye, and they hope that the frozen tundra of Lambeau Field will give them an edge as they work to advance to the NFC title game.
 
KEYS TO THE GAME
Speaking of an edge, it will take more than mere weather for the Packers to win this game. Because their biggest flaw this year, is that they were a little TOO confident at times and took teams that they deemed ‘beneath’ them for granted. Which in turn led to some epic upsets and ugly losses and really that’s something they cannot do here. Because the Rams are hungry to advance, and they will fight hard. But in reality, this is Green Bay’s game to lose, because they have the better defense and the better offense for certain. Plus, Jared Goff isn’t at one hundred percent just yet and that likely means that the Packers are going to advance to the NFC Championship Game.

HOW THESE TEAMS REACHED THE DIVISIONAL ROUND
What makes this game exciting and intriguing, is the sheer fact that these two teams share in some common themes when it comes to their journey to the playoffs. In that, they simply did not give up in the slightest all season long and hung with tough opponents and found ways to win when it matters most. And for their efforts, they now find themselves facing off in the Divisional Round, and the sheer tenacity of these two teams, will likely make this particular game the finest of this particular round. Because this game is the personification of an unstoppable force meeting an immovable object and that’s a wonderful thing for fans everywhere.
 
KEYS TO THE GAME
Let’s be honest here, these are two evenly matched teams, that both feature dynamic quarterbacks. The kind that can take off and run or drop a dime in the end zone if they so choose. Which means that it is difficult to say which team has the edge, because both squads really do play similar styles of football. But someone has to win this game and advance to the AFC Championship Game, and while it isn’t easy to say which one will advance, it is easy to see that defense will be the key to securing a win. Because both of these teams employ ye olde ‘bend but don’t break’ mentality on the defensive side of the ball. Which means that the first D that tightens up and shuts the opposing offense down, is the one that will send their team to the next round of the playoffs.

HOW THESE TEAMS REACHED THE DIVISIONAL ROUND
Ironically enough, the Sunday opening game, features another pair of teams that arrived in the playoffs in a supremely polarizing manner. For the Kansas City Chiefs basically picked up where they left off last year, by smacking teams around left and right and for their efforts, they only lost twice in 2020 on their way to locking up the #1 seed in the AFC. As for the Browns, well they got in the hard way. Because some early season disappointment put them a little bit behind the curve, but something clearly clicked in their locker room late in the season and they simply went on a dominating tear. The kind that saw them finally own the Pittsburgh Steelers in an epic manner on their way to the Divisional Round.
 
KEYS TO THE GAME
While the Cleveland Browns have indeed been the feel-good story of the playoffs, this is sadly likely the end of their Cinderella story. Simply because this is Kansas City’s game to lose, and they are one supremely talented team through and through. Because they excel in all three phases of the game and they are itching to repeat as Champs. But it is possible for Cleveland to win this game, provided a few key things come into play. First and foremost, they need to put up points like they did in the Wild Card Round. Because the Chiefs can score when they please and that also means that the Browns defense has to step up and play some stout football. So, if they can score heavy and slow the Chiefs down, they’ve got a chance at winning this thing. But more than likely, the Chiefs will have this one in the bag, because they are the better team.

​HOW THESE TEAMS REACHED THE DIVISIONAL ROUND
Now, what makes this particular matchup so worth our while and so incredibly fascinating, is that this is a playoff matchup that came together strictly by way of the letters, Q and B. Because the quarterbacks are exactly why these two teams are in the playoffs. For Taysom Hill and Drew Brees worked in tandem to pick defenses apart to ensure a spot in the tournament, and the Bucs simply went out and got themselves a six-time Super Bowl Champion in order to improve their chances. And now these two titans meet for the third time this season to determine who is the true champion of this suddenly saucy, divisional rivalry.
 
KEYS TO THE GAME
Once again, this is a game that will come down to defense. Because we already know that TB and DB are going to drop bombs all day long and find open receivers, and make incredible plays happen. Which means the D on both sides has to figure out how to shut down the legend they’re facing and oddly enough… New Orleans has the edge there. Simply because there is a blueprint to beating Mister Brady. So, if the Saints can apply some pressure and hit him and play tight man cover on his receivers, then they have a shot at winning this game. As for which team advances to the title game from here, well I simply haven’t a clue. Because Brady and Brees have seen it all and done it all, and they’re both eager to snag one more title before they leave the NFL and that likely means we’re in for an intense matchup for certain, one that will likely come down to the wire.  

It just so happens, that this year’s Wild Card Weekend was touted as Super Wild Card Weekend and it was wise of the NFL to give the moniker a little bit of a shake-up. Simply because it really did deliver as advertised, since we were treated to some epic matchups over the course of the weekend. The kind that quite frankly, took our breath away since we saw a stunning upset take place and enjoyed some quality play from ninety-percent of the teams involved. And now that this epic weekend has come to a close, we can all look forward to the wonder of the Divisional Round as we inch closer to the Super Bowl. But before we begin to ponder upon who will be making an appearance in Championship Sunday, it’s best we take one last look at Wild Card Weekend and all the important moments it sent our way. 

The Buffalo Bills shows the football world how tough they are on Saturday.
The true mark of a great team, is how they handle adversity and the best place for that to happen, is in the playoffs. Because the postseason means that great teams are facing opponents of equal caliber and after Saturday’s matchup between Indianapolis and Buffalo, we know now that Buffalo is indeed a great team through and through. Because the Colts stepped up in this game and worked to disrupt the mighty Bills offense. But Josh Allen and company stayed patient and fought through every setback and stalled drive and for their efforts, they get to advance to the Divisional Round, and they are going to be a handful for the Ravens, since this game proved that they can handle any challenge that a team throws their way.
 
Seattle’s garbage defense finally came back to haunt them.
What’s truly amazing about the modern NFL, is how some teams do their best to ignore glaring problems and just forge ahead, as if said problem will just magically disappear. Because that’s just next level hubris and it has cost so many teams playoff games and seasons and it just so happens, that this particular type of ignorance, is what brought Seattle’s season to a screeching halt on Sunday. For all season long, their defense got them into trouble, the kind that Russell Wilson bailed them out of, but against the Rams, their savior couldn't help them. Because Los Angeles shut Wilson down and that allowed for an ailing offense to put up some serious points and well, hopefully Seattle learns its lesson from this awful loss, and they quickly work to revamp their shoddy defense when the offseason begins.
 
Washington may have discovered its quarterback of the future.
While it is wonderful to know that Tom Brady is advancing for the umpteenth time in the playoffs, that’s not really the best story to come out of the Tampa Bay/Washington game. Because there’s another hero to be found in this story and it is Washington Quarterback Taylor Heinicke. For this kid, who should have been overwhelmed and terrified since he got the starting nod mere hours before game time, played with the same calm that Brady exhibited all game long. And he was no slouch stats wise either, since he threw for 306 years and scored by land and by air and well, when one considers that Washington is back to square one when it comes to finding a franchise quarterback… their search in the offseason might not need to be all that extensive. Because Heinicke might be the guy, and he deserves a shot to prove that’s the case, after one stellar playoff performance on Saturday night.
 
The Ravens served up some epic revenge.
Every nerd out there is familiar with the old Klingon proverb that reminds us that ‘revenge is a dish, that is best served cold’ and this is clearly a lesson that the Baltimore Ravens took to heart. Because they came into Tennessee with memories of last year’s stunning upset at the hands of the Titans at the forefront of their minds, and they used it as fuel to offer up some nasty payback in this particular game. For not only did they secure the dub, but they also straight up neutralized the league’s best run game in 2020 and well, this particular win definitely serves as a fine lesson for the rest of the NFL. In that, the Ravens are students of the game, and they have a good memory, and they will make any team that embarrasses them on their home field pay when the moment is right. And it should be interesting to see how much of this vengeful fury the Ravens will take with them to Buffalo this weekend.
 
Chicago is once again in need of a franchise quarterback.
It is definitely safe to say that the outcome of the Bears/Saints game, was never in doubt. Because the Saints are a great team with a great quarterback and the 8-8 Bears should have missed the playoffs this year. But while the Saints move onto the Divisional Round, this sudden and fitting end to the Chicago Bears' season, leaves them in undiscovered country when it comes to the quarterback position. Because let’s be honest, Nick Foles didn’t work out for them like they hoped and Trubisky never quite put it together. Meaning that there is a chance that this team is once again on the hunt for a franchise quarterback and hopefully they are aggressive at either getting a quality journeyman under center or at drafting the right rookie. Because if this team was able to go 8-8 and make the postseason on defense alone, imagine what they could do with a quality QB on the team.
 
The Browns pulled off an upset for the ages.
What’s truly amazing about last night’s final Wild Card Game, is that the odds were completely stacked against the Browns. After all, most of the offensive coaching staff missed last night’s game due to Covid protocols and the Steelers were at full strength offensively, which means that Cleveland should have lost this game. But clearly, pre-game coaching conversations and some extra work from the team captains, changed the narrative in this tale. Because this team came out swinging and stunned the Steelers by handing them an embarrassing playoff loss and well, that’s about as epic an upset as it gets. Because they also made this happen, on the road in Pittsburgh and well… good for the Browns. For that is a wonderful way to return to the playoffs after an eighteen-year absence and hopefully they can put on quite the show in Kansas City, so that everyone knows to take this team seriously going forward.

It’s always a wonderful thing when Wild Card Weekend lives up to its namesake and thus far, that’s been the case. Because not only were we treated to a full day of playoff football yesterday, we also were treated to a thrilling and close game, an unfortunate defensive collapse and Washington might have discovered their quarterback of the future against Tampa Bay. And that of course, leaves all of us hopeful that Day 2 of the first round of the playoffs will deliver in a similar fashion and most likely, it will. Because today’s lineup of games features some powerhouse teams and some hungry ones as well and with that in mind… let’s dive right in and preview everything that Day 2 of Wild Card Weekend has to offer.

HOW THESE TEAMS REACHED THE PLAYOFFS
A year ago, these two squads bounced into the playoffs in dynamic fashion. For Baltimore shocked the AFC with some dominant play and the Titans used a powerhouse run game and their stout defense to go deep into the playoffs. But this year, they had to work hard to earn their respective slots. Because the Titans abandoned the run on and off this year, which led to some ugly losses and the Ravens opted to try and go with a more traditional offense at times, which also brought forth some embarrassing losses. But eventually they buckled down and did just enough to lock up their respective playoff berths, and as fate would have it… these two teams take the field today in a pseudo-rematch of their divisional meeting from last year. 
 
KEYS TO THE GAME
Surprisingly, the path to victory for both of these teams is quite simple. In that, whichever team takes a back to basics approach in this game, will lock it up no problem. So, if Baltimore doesn’t try to get fancy on offense and sticks with a healthy mix of RPO and traditional elements, they should be able to avenge their ugly loss to this team from a year ago. And on the flip side of that, if Tennessee can hand the rock to Derrick Henry on a consistent basis and play quarterback contain on defense, then they will continue to own this team in the playoffs, and it should be interesting to see which team can stick to what works as they fight to advance to the Divisional Round.

HOW THESE TEAMS REACHED THE PLAYOFFS
This is another one of those games that features some polarizing paths for the teams involved. For the Chicago Bears weren’t exactly a dominant team this year, on offense. In fact, they had to go back and forth between Mitch Trubisky and Nick Foles at quarterback in order to spark their offense. But they did just enough to earn a berth and they’re taking on a squad that entered the tournament by way of sheer domination. Because the Saints had a phenomenal season for certain, one where they won some huge games in epic fashion and they even toyed with nabbing the #1 seed in the NFC for a little while before settling in behind Green Bay as the #2.
 
KEYS TO THE GAME
Truth be told, this game is the Saints to lose. Because they have a future Hall of Fame quarterback on their roster in Drew Brees, and he can lead this team into the endzone on a moment’s notice, and their bend but don’t break defense does just enough to keep them out of trouble. Whereas the Bears offense is mediocre at best and they tend to not score enough in big games such as this one. But they could potentially win. For if the Bears Defense can step up and neutralize the passing game, and slow the run game down, then there’s a chance that Trubisky can do just enough to win this game. But more than likely, the Saints are walking away with the victory in this one. Because they are the better team.

​HOW THESE TEAMS REACHED THE PLAYOFFS
Surprisingly, this is another game that features fascinating paths for the teams involved. Because the Pittsburgh Steelers were the toast of the NFL not that long ago. In fact, they were 11-0 at one point and seemed quite invincible. But a couple of losses shattered the psyche of this team, and it didn’t help that defenses figured out their offense, which put them into a rough late season skid, one that kept them from locking up the #1 seed. Whereas the Browns, started off the season… looking like the Browns, thanks to an embarrassing loss to Baltimore in the season opener. But as the season went along, they put everything together and figured out how to win in a dominant fashion, allowing for them enjoy their first playoff berth since 2002.
 
KEYS TO THE GAME
On paper it looks as though Pittsburgh should handily win this game, but the reality is far more complex for this team. Because I wasn’t kidding when I said that teams have figured out their offensive scheme. Which means that if they want to win this game, they need to mix it up on offense and play some stout defense and if they can do that, they should be able to advance. But the Cleveland Browns are no slouch either and they’re eager to win a big game and really, if they want to make that happen, they need to play some physical and aggressive football. Because the Steelers tend to crumble when a team stands up to them and keeps the pressure on, and if Cleveland can show no fear and answer accordingly or just put up a big lead, that should help him net their first playoff win in forever.  

​It is the most wonderful time of the year… if you are a football fan. Because at long last, the NFL Playoffs are upon us and that means we are in for quite the treat. For every team taking the field over the next few weeks, fully understand that it is win or go home and that tends to motivate them to bring their A game. As an added bonus, this is also the first year of the modern era that fourteen teams are in the tournament for a change. Which means that there are #2 seeds playing this weekend, since only the top dog gets a bye and, in the end, all of these elements should provide us with some top-notch football, the kind that will take our breath away. So, without further ado, let’s dive right in and preview what we can expect from Day 1 of Wild Card Weekend.

HOW THESE TEAMS REACHED THE PLAYOFFS
It has often been said that defense wins championships, but sometimes… an ultra-talented quarterback will help with that too. Because both of these teams boast some solid ones for certain since Philip Rivers transformed the Colts into an offensive powerhouse in 2020, the kind that can hang in a shootout and win one, now that he has weapons and, that allowed for them to win some big games and it locked them up a spot in the playoffs. As for the Bills, well Josh Allen is a big reason why they are here as well. Since his dynamic season brought about all kinds of big points for the Bills and his comfort and ability to read defenses, allowed for him to lead Buffalo to victory in critical moments and thanks to his fine play, Buffalo is back in the playoffs for the first time in ages.
 
KEYS TO THE GAME
Make no mistake about it. This game is all about defense. Because that is the Achilles heel for both of these squads. Because the Colts defense is downright sloppy for certain, and that’s why this team is in shootouts often and Buffalo tends to employ the ol’ ‘bend but don’t break defense’, which can cause more harm than good in critical moments. So, the first team that shores that up and locks down receivers and brings a quality blitz, is the one to win this matchup. And if I had to guess, Buffalo is likely the squad that will make that happen. Because their defense might play soft at times, but it does boast some stars and some ferocity, and they know what’s at stake here.

HOW THESE TEAMS REACHED THE PLAYOFFS
The best way to describe the 2020 season for these two teams, is to use the phrase ‘The Hard Way’. Because that’s exactly how they earned their playoff spots. Because both of these squads, once considered to be feared and elite, lost some games they shouldn’t have this year, and saw some drop off from their calling cards. Because clearly defense is no longer the focus in Seattle and the offense leaves something to be desired in Los Angeles. But what matters most, is that both teams figured out how to pull out a big win when it mattered and that allowed for Seattle to lock up the NFC West late in the season and it helped Los Angeles clinch a Wild Card berth and now these two rivals take the field in one important game. 
 
KEYS TO THE GAME
The fact of the matter is that these two teams need their biggest weaknesses to not be a liability today. Which means that Seattle’s defense has to step up, and I mean, STEP UP. Because at times they simply couldn’t stop lesser offenses this season and that simply cannot happen here. For if the Rams get into a rhythm and get some sustained scoring drives going, and their defense steps up, it might be curtains for Seattle. But at the same time, that Los Angeles offense is of concern. Because as of press time, Jared Goff isn’t cleared to play today and will likely be a game-time decision and if backup QB John Wolford stumbles in his first playoff start, then the Seahawks will likely be able to get a confidence boost on defense, by shutting down a #2 guy, on their way to a Wild Card win. 

HOW THESE TEAMS REACHED THE PLAYOFFS
Of all the playoff matchups in round one, this one features some intriguing storylines, when it comes to how these teams arrived here. After all, the Bucs are basically here because they went out and landed themselves a six-time Super Bowl Champion Quarterback in Tom Brady and his shockingly solid season, alongside a decent defense helped them to net a playoff berth. And he will face off against an improbable division winner in the Washington Football Team. A squad that employed a revolving door at quarterback this year, before coming on strong late in the season to lock up the NFC East and they really are quite the miracle, since it is rare for a 7-9 team to make the tournament.
 
KEYS TO THE GAME
Let’s be honest, this is Tampa Bay’s game to lose. They have the better defense, they hands down have the better offense, so it is either going to take a meltdown on their part, or some kind of freakish run of luck for Washington to win. Or… there is a third option to victory for Washington, one that involves taking a page from the New York Giants of old, a team that handily beat Brady often. So, if the WFT can get Alex Smith to pull off some long and sustained scoring drives, the kind that keep #12 off the field and wear out that defense, and if the WFT D can play press coverage and tight man on Brady’s receivers and ramp up the pressure and hit the old man in the pocket, then they’ve got a chance at winning this game. Because Brady struggles when his offense is neutralized. But more than likely, he and his new team will be advancing to the Divisional Round because Washington just isn’t quite ready for the playoffs.

​Well football fans, we have reached quite the important point in the NFL season. For after seventeen weeks of hard-fought battles and surprises and injuries and Covid related delays, we have come to the end of the regular season. Which means that the playoffs and all the wondrous games that it has to offer is right around the corner. But before we dig into who will best who in the tournament and who might hoist the Lombardi Trophy, we do still have one last week of regular season NFL football to reflect upon. So, let’s dive right in and break down Week 17 in the NFL and all of the lessons it sent our way.  
 
Congratulations to the Washington Redskins for winning the NFC East.
Usually by the middle of the season, football fans have a general idea as to who is going to win a particular division thanks to the play of a dominate team that begins to pull away from the pack. But that simply wasn’t the case in the NFC East at all this year. Because from Week 1 to Week 17, there was no dominant team. Just four squads trying desperately trying to take the lead and it took the entire season to determine a division winner. Which just so happens to be the Washington Football Team and that’s awesome. Because this is a team that was all but forgotten by football fans and now, they’re in the tournament and in the national conversation once again. Which is a testament to Ron Rivera’s skills as a head coach. And while this team will likely be bounced out of the playoffs this weekend because they’re not quite there yet, that’s okay. Because if this is what Washington can accomplish with a so-so roster, imagine what they will do later this year, when they reload said roster with far better talent.
 
The New York Jets finally did the franchise a solid by firing Adam Gase.
Sometimes executives in football make some head-scratching decisions, personnel wise, and this year definitely featured a doozy, since no one can explain exactly why the front office let Adam Gase coach the New York Jets for the entire season. Because Gase simply lost control of this team and he did a terrible job of having them ready to play on Sunday. But despite the fact that this team established itself as the laughingstock of the league early on in the season, Gase was still allowed to prowl the sidelines for the entire year. But finally, the front office relieved Adam Gase of his head coaching duties on Sunday night and hopefully the Jets learned a valuable lesson when it comes to selecting a head coach. In that, sometimes the guys that are the next hot thing, simply don’t have what it takes to lead a team to victory and all Jets fans can hope for now, is a long and thorough search for their next head coach. One that hopefully finds this team the right leader so this franchise can get back to winning.
 
The Cleveland Browns finally ended their playoff drought.
Make no mistake about it, the Browns getting back into the playoffs is a huge deal to say the least. Because this team and more importantly this fanbase, have dealt with an incredible stretch of failure. One that has seen quarterbacks come and go under center, because the team simply couldn’t evaluate talent in the slightest and to make matters worse, this team also endured an 0-16 season not that long ago, and really… that’s but a sampling of the problems that the Browns have faced since the last time they were in the tournament, making them something of a running joke in the league. But at long last, they’re back in and they also have a dynamic young QB under center. One that can ball and make big moments happen and that’s just amazing to say the least. And while we don’t know how this playoff run is going to end, what matters more is that the Browns are finally moving in the right direction and that’s a wonderful thing for the fans that have stuck by this team, regardless of the results.
 
Derrick Henry joined quite the elite club on Sunday.
These days in the NFL, the amazing rule changes that benefit offenses, really do make it seem as though every record out there is going to fall. But while that has allowed for incredible numbers to be put up on a regular basis, to the point where a record falling doesn’t quite hold the weight that it used to; there are still some accomplishments on offense that are worth discussing and celebrating. Such as when a tailback goes over 2,000 yards in a single season. Because that is something that doesn’t happen all that often in this pass happy league and also because bruiser running backs are rare these days. But it does happen from time to time and for the eighth time in league history, it happened again on Sunday. For Derrick Henry of the Tennessee Titans crossed that threshold and that’s amazing to say the least. Because it speaks to Derrick’s work ethic and determination to be the best tailback in the league and well, this milestone makes it clear that Derrick Henry has accomplished that particular mission.
 
The Buffalo Bills are going to make the playoffs quite interesting.
Every year there is a particular team that heads into the tournament, that simply makes life hell for every team that they face. Last year, it was the Tennessee Titans since they were able to shock the AFC by ending the Patriots dynasty and by knocking out the number one seeded Ravens before falling to the Chiefs on Championship Sunday and this year, it looks as though the Buffalo Bills are going to fill that role. Simply because they continue to surprise the league and Sunday’s game against the Dolphins reinforced that. Because no one thought they would drop a fifty-burger on Miami, but they did, and they made it happen with second teamers. Which speaks to their depth and their determination and well, they’re going to make the playoffs supremely interesting for certain and no one should be surprised if they make it to the title game. Since this team has made it clear they’re in it to win it and they’ll stop at nothing to earn the dub.  

​Well, football fans, we made it. After months of stress and strife in the football world (and our everyday lives for that matter as well), we’ve arrived in 2021. And it is just wonderful to know that we are finally inching closer to playoff football. Because tomorrow sees the regular season in the NFL come to a close and thanks to the strangeness of the past year, we still have big games looming on the horizon for teams that are hoping to make it into the tournament. Which means that the time has come to preview some of the stories and matchups that await us tomorrow, when Week 17 in the NFL gets underway.
 
Who will win the NFC East?
Usually by now, the division champions are either crowned or the team that will clench it, is super close to locking everything up. But this season is of course, the weirdest one on record and for proof… then look no further than the situation in the NFC East. Because at this point, we haven’t a clue who will win this division and there really isn’t a clear victor waiting in the wings and that’s just wild. But alas, there has to be a winner and well… if I had to guess, it is going to be the Washington Football Team. Simply because they really do have the best defense in the division and Ron Rivera is able to draw something powerful out of this squad on a weekly basis. But then again, they might not clinch the East, since Dallas is coming on hot and the Giants are also fighting hard to secure a post season berth. Which means all we can do is wait and see how things are going to play out tomorrow and really, the only thing that is a certainty when it comes to the NFC East; is that the winner of this division will likely be one and done in the postseason. Because none of these squads are elite in the slightest.
 
Which coaches will be fired after this weekend?
If there is one unfortunate tradition that the NFL takes part in every year, it would have to be, Black Monday. For this is the day where coaches are sent packing en masse for not leading their team to victory and while several sub-par coaches have already been let go this year, there will most certainly be more when Week 17 wraps up. But who could that potentially be? Well, there are three names that definitely come to mind in regard to that question: Adam Gase, Anthony Lynn and Doug Marrone. Because none of these coaches have been able to get their teams going, despite having talent on the roster and of course, Gase has presided over one of the worst seasons in New York Jets history. So, I fully expect all of these gentlemen to be gone come Monday, and hopefully their exits finally allow for the Jets and Chargers and Jaguars to find some measure of success, since they’ve been searching for wins for some time now.

It’s been quite the long time since the Miami Dolphins enjoyed any kind of actual playoff run. In fact, the last time they made it past the Wild Card Round was the year 2000. But the Dolphins have a chance to return to the postseason and make a splash in the playoffs for a change, if they beat the Buffalo Bills on Sunday and that is uh… that’s a tall task. Because the Bills have proven themselves to be one of the best teams in the AFC this year, and they are playing lights out football in every phase of the game. And while there is a 50/50 chance that Josh Allen will sit out a fair chunk of this game, if not all of it, that really doesn’t help Miami’s chances. Because that defense is pretty darn stout, and this team would love to go 13-3 and remind the league that they are forced to be reckoned with. But there is a chance that Miami could pull off the upset here, since they are a plucky squad that plays with a nothing to lose attitude. But more than likely, Buffalo will wrap up the win here no problem, because they boast the better team.

​Well, let’s be honest folks… this game is less about whether or not Pittsburgh can right all of their wrongs in this game and is more about Baker Mayfield and the Cleveland Browns. Because it’s already been announced that Big Ben is going to sit this one out and let Mason Rudolph take the snaps under center, and the Steelers are already in. Which means that Baker Mayfield has a grand opportunity in front of him here, to take control of this game and possibly get the Browns into the playoffs for the first time since 2002. While at the same time, showing the football world that he is indeed worthy of the number one overall draft pick, that the Browns spent on him a few years ago and honestly, I think he might be able to pull off the ‘upset’ here. Because he really has done some impressive things on the field this year and all of his Wide Receivers are back after last week’s Covid incident. So, don’t be shocked if Mayfield wows us all and leads the Browns into the post-season, because this QB and this team are finding their stride at just the right time.