2016 NFL Pro Bowl Rosters: Team Rice

Team Jerry Rice Pro Bowl Roster:
Captain: Odell Beckham Jr., Wide Receiver, New York Giants
Captain: Aaron Donald, Defensive Tackle, St. Louis Rams

Offense: (OT= Offensive Tackle, OG= Offensive Guard, C= Center, FB= Fullback, TE= Tight End)
QB: Eli Manning, New York Giants
QB: Derek Carr, Oakland Raiders
QB: Tyrod Taylor, Buffalo Bills
FB: John Kuhn, Green Bay Packers
RB: Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings
RB: Doug Martin, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
RB: Chris Ivory, New York Jets
WR: Amari Cooper, Oakland Raiders
WR: T.Y. Hilton, Indianapolis Colts
WR: Jarvis Landry, Miami Dolphins
TE: Travis Kelce, Kansas City Chiefs
TE: Gary Barnidge, Cleveland Browns
OT: Kyle Long, Chicago Bears
OT: Joe Staley, San Fransisco 49ers
OT: Joe Thomas, Cleveland Browns
OG: Richie Incognito, Buffalo Bills
OG: Logan Mankins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
OG: Josh Sitton, Green Bay Packers
C: Nick Mangold, New York Jets
C: Eric Wood, Buffalo Bills

Defense: (DE= Defensive End, DT= Defensive Tackle, ILB/OLB= Inside/Outside Linebacker, FS/SS= Free/Strong Saftey
DE: Khalil Mack, Oakland Raiders
DE: Everson Griffin, Minnesota Vikings
DE: Cameron Jordan, New Orleans Saints
DT: Fletcher Cox, Philadelphia Eagles
DT: Gerald McCoy, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
OLB: Tamba Hali, Kansas City Chiefs
OLB: Julius Peppers, Green Bay Packers
OLB: Elvis Dumervil, Baltimore Ravens
ILB: Clay Matthews, Green Bay Packers
ILB: Bobby Wagner, Seattle Seahawks
CB: Marcus Peters, Kansas City Chiefs
CB: Vontae Davis, Indianapolis Colts
CB: Brent Grimes, Miami Dolphins
CB: Jason Verrett, San Diego Chargers
SS: Eric Berry, Kansas City Chiefs
SS: Charles Woodson, Oakland Raiders
SS: Mike Adams, Indianapolis Colts

Special Teams: (KR= Kickoff Returner, ST= Special Teamer)
K: Josh Brown, New York Giants
P: Johnny Hekker, St. Louis Rams
KR: Tyler Lockett, Seattle Seahawks
ST: Cedric Peerman, Cincinnati Bengals

2016 NFL Pro Bowl Rosters: Team Irvin

Team Michael Irvin Pro Bowl Roster
Captain: Devonta Freeman, Running Back, Atlanta Falcons
Captain: Geno Atkins, Defensive Tackle, Cincinnati Bengals

Offense: (OT= Offensive Tackle, OG= Offensive Guard, C= Center. FB= Fullback, TE= Tight End)
QB: Russell Wilson, Seattle Seahawks
QB: Jamies Winston, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
QB: Teddy Bridgewater, Minnesota Vikings
RB: Todd Gurley, St. Louis Rams
RB: Latavius Murray, Oakland Raiders
FB: Patrick Dimarco, Atlanta Falcons
WR: Julio Jones, Atlanta Falcons
WR: A.J. Green, Cincinnati Bengals
WR: Allen Robinson, Jacksonville Jaguars
WR: DeAndre Hopkins, Houston Texans
TE: Tyler Eifert, Cincinnati Bengals
TE: Delanie Walker, Tennessee Titans
OT: Tyron Smith, Dallas Cowboys
OT: Brandon Albert, Miami Dolphins
OT: Andrew Whitworth, Cincinnati Bengals
OG: Zack Martin, Dallas Cowboys
OG: Marshal Yanda. Baltimore Ravens
OG: David DeCastro, Pittsburgh Steelers
C: Travis Fredrick, Dallas Cowboys
C: Alex Mack, Cleveland Browns

Defense: (DE= Defensive End, DT= Defensive Tackle, OLB/ILB=Inside/Outside Linebacker, CB= Cornerback, FS/SS= Free/Strong Saftey)
DE: Ezekiel Ansah, Detroit Lions
DE: Michael Bennett, Seattle Seahawks
DE: Carlos Dunlap, Cincinnati Bengals
DT: Calias Campbell, Arizona Cardinals
DT: Jurrell Casey, Tennessee Titans
OLB: Anthony Barr, Minnesota Vikings
OLB: Sean Lee, Dallas Cowboys
ILB: NaVarro Bowman, San Fransisco 49ers
ILB: Derrick Johnson, Kansas City Chiefs
CB: Richard Sherman, Seattle Seahawks
CB: Desmond Trufant, Atlanta Falcons
CB: Adam Jones, Cincinnati Bengals
CB: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, New York Giants
FS: Harrison Smith, Minnesota Vikings
SS: Reshad Jones, Miami Dolphins
SS: Malcolm Jenkins, Philadelphia Eagles

Special Teams: (KR= Kickoff Returner, ST= Special Teamer)
K: Dan Bailey, Dallas Cowboys
P: Sam Koch, Baltimore Ravens
KR: Darren Sproles, Philadelphia Eagles
ST: Justin Bethel, Arizona Cardinals

NFC Championship Preview: Arizona Cardinals v.s. Carolina Panthers

In a matchup that features two teams that can light up the scoreboard, the Cardinals and Panthers will give fans plenty of flashy plays. The Panthers steamrolled over the Arizona Cardinals, who had started Ryan Lindley at the time (now their fourth string quarterback). The NFC's top two teams are going to make history tomorrow as this will be the first time that a postseason game will feature two fo the highest scoring offenses, during the Super Bowl era. Carolina will defend their home turf against the red-hot Cardinals offense. The decision of having a conservative game flow in the first half boded well for Arizona's quarterback Carson Palmer in the second half. While Arizona won a matchup for the ages against Green Bay, Carolina was making a mockery of Pete Carroll and the Seattle Seahawks, before nearly blowing a large lead. The Panthers Cam Newton will try to become the first quarterback to to have 45 or more touchdowns during the regular season and make a Super Bowl apperance. They will also try to extend their white home jersey winning streak to seven. The pre-game hype is going to be an afterthought as the focus is on the performance on the field. Will Cam Newton dab his way into the Super Bowl, or will Carson Palmer finally achieve his football goal?

Bold Predictions: Cardinals 35 - Panthers 31 

• Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald performed very similar to his wild 2008 playoff production. Fitzgerald recorded more than 150 receiving yards, including two key daggers in overtime. He faces one of the most humble and physical cornerbacks in the NFL, in Carolina's Josh Norman. Norman's lone porous game came against the Odell Beckham Jr. and the New York Giants. Quarterbacks have only completed 52.2 percent of their passes and a mere 54.7 quarterback rating. He makes quarterbacks look like Ryan Leaf and is focusing his next assignment against the respected Larry Fitzgerald. Fitzgerald has great ball skills and has height on Norman. Fitzgerald also plays most of his snaps from the slot, where Norman could struggle, giving the fact that he has played a mere 1.4% of his snaps in the slot. However, Norman plays very physical at the line and does not give receivers a lot of cushion. Fitzgerald has break away speed that most teams forget about. Fitzgerald is also the only player to average at least 100 yards receiving and one touchdown per game in the playoffs and Norman will try to end Fitz's success. (Fitz: 5 Rec 85 yards 0 TD)
• Carolina Panthers defensive coordinator Sean McDermott did a fantastic job containing Seattle's Russell Wilson in the first half and will need middle linebacker Luke Kuechly to prevent Palmer from dropping bombs. Kuechly is arguably the best pass coverage defender in the NFL and has played like a warrior. Kuechly reminds me of Brian Urlacher in so many ways because they're both are physical, have great recovery speed, and know where the ball is at all times. Kuechly, the quarterback of the defense, will need his secondary to contain Arizona's aerial attack, Carolina does not have corners Charles Tillman and Bene Benwikere available, so they need safties Tre Boston and Kurt Coleman to limit Palmer's deep balls. The biggest part of Carson Palmer's game is his uncanny arm strength. He has three deep threats (Fitzgerald, John Brown, and Michael Floyd), just like what Kurt Warner had when he lead the 2008 Arizona Cardinals to the Super Bowl. Look for Palmer to attack this defense early and often. (Palmer 312 yards 3 TD 1 INT)
• The Arizona Cardinals weakest link of their offensive line is their offensive guards. Carolina's breakout star Kawann Short has plowed right through opponents interior this season and will look to have more fun. Star Loutueli has struggled for the most part of the season, but showed no signs of giving up in last week's victory over Seattle. Seattle has the worst offensive line in the NFL, but Loutueli forced erratic throws and made some key stuffs in Carolina's win. He and Shortt should have a field day against this front. Arizona is a much better run blocking than pass blocking team, but it's going to be difficult against Carolina's front four. Look for more zone blocking against Carolina and for Arizona to call more sweeps, counters, and off tackles, to ware down this front. 
• The Carolina Panthers face another stingy defense in the Arizona Cardinals. Tight End Greg Olson was a key part to Carolina's success against Seattle, and will need to step up again. The Cardinals feature hybrid, converted saftey to linebacker Deone Buchanon and run stuffing Kevin Minter. Both are undersized, but make up for speed and tackling ability. Buchanon is the x-factor for Arizona's defense and has the tools to be a punisher in the run game and consistent presence in coverage. Buchanon does a great job covering wheel routes, which could be seen by Carolina's Philly Brown and Ted Ginn Jr. Buchanon will try to limit the short routes, while Minter will try to crash the line of scrimmage. Buchanon is too small to cover Olson, but will need to bring his tackling A-game to bring down Olson. Defensive Backs Tony Jefferson and Rashad Johnson will have the responsibility to defend the dangerous red zone threat. Olson should be a solid security blanket for Newton because both Johnson and Jefferson can leak sometimes. Carolina's Devin Funchess is nearly the size of a tight end and is another red zone threat. As a former high school basketball player, Funchess can use his basketball moves to lay out or out jump a defener. Arizona will need to play more zone with Carolina's tall duo. (Olson: 5 Rec 77 yards 1 TD) (Funchess: 4 Rec 31 yards 1 TD)
• One of the main reasons for Carolina's offensive success is the surprise play from their offensive line. The last time Carolina went to the NFC Championship game, they had a good offensive line. Same formula plays here as they have played consistent and tough all year long. The play of young guards Trai Turner and Andrew Norwell are the difference for the Panthers running game. Carolina has rushed for more than 100 yards in 30 consecutive games, but will great production from their interior to make it 31. Arizona is anchored by Pro Bowl defensive lineman Calias Campbell. Campbell statistical production has decreased, but continues to be a force to be reckoned with. He is dangerous in the trenches and uses swim moves to create chaos in the backfield. Jonathan Stewart ripped off a 51 yard run last week because of the giant hole is offensive line gave him. Arizona needs to fill the gaps to take control of the line of scrimmage. (Stewart: 24 Att 76 yards 0 TD) (Mike Tolbert scores 2 TD)
• Last week, Carson Palmer had very conservative play-calling in the first half. The conservative play-calling was made due to a dislocated finger. In the past players such as Steve McNair, Brett Favre, Dan Marino, and other vertan quarterbacks struggled with dislocated finger or thumb injuries. Some of Palmer's passes floated like cotton candy or made it look like he threw a duck. The finger seemed to affect Palmer in the game, even though he denys it. Palmer will need to be more crisp with a sworming Carolina defense that ranked first in takaways (39). Arizona should not rely on Palmer throwing fifty times and should use misdirection and try pounding Panther's stout front. Depending on the game flow, Arizona should try attacking Carolina's current depleted secondary and then use counters and power tosses with rookie sensation David Johnson. Johnson can break one loose anytime and is also a threat as a receiver out of the backfield. (Johnson: 18 Att 71 yards, 5 Rec 47 yards)
• Arizona's number one priority on defense should be containing Cam Newton. Newton has had success all season on the ground and Arizona needs to use QB Man Spy, Contains with their speedy rushers, and be careful to not overload on read options. Newton is every bit of 6'5 and occassionaly will sacrifice his body for a first down or a touchdown. Deone Buchanon and Kevin Minter will need to spy and make Cam Neton's pocket very uncomfortable. Arizona will need to employ zone blitzes and the occassional all out blitz to get Newton out of rhythm. Press Coverage on zone blitzes prevents the quarterback to make a quick release when there is heavy pressure. Any defense needs to use this strategy when dialing up a blitz against Cam Newton. (Newton: 256 yards 2 TD 1 INT, will lose 1 fumble, 12 Att, 40 yards 0 TD)

AFC Championship Preview: New England Patriots v.s. Denver Broncos

Prior to defeating Denver 43-21 in November 2014, New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady stated that Peyton Manning was in the final chapter of their historic rivalry, while he felt that he had plenty left in the tank. Brady apologized after sending his message and Manning laughed it off. With a potential final clash between the two future hall of fame quarterbacks, NFL fans expect to see an exciting duel. Their rivalry is a very remarkable story and each have a chance to advance to Super Bowl 50. After being pounded by the Patriots defense in the 2003 championship game, Manning has gone 3-0 in conference championship games. Brady extends his NFL record of ten consecutive conference championship appearances and has four Super Bowl rings. While the Brady and Manning rivalry headlines this enticing matchup, their are many key factors and marquee matchups. Will Manning and the Broncos stingy defense prevent Brady to make back-to-back Super Bowl apperances, or will the Brady Bunch take care of business at Peyton's Place? 

Bold Prediction: Patriots 27 - Broncos 24

• In the Patriots last trip to Denver, they were without wide receiver Julian Edelman. The return of Edelman was a huge boost for Brady last week, as he racked up 100 yards in their victory over Kansas City. When Edelman was sidelined, New England's third down conversion rate dropped from 50 to 31 percent, they averaged eleven fewer points per game, and their record was 3-4. The presence of Edelman is huge for New England's offense because he so versatile. He can line up anywhere on the field and produce at a consistent rate. Edelman is at his best when the Patriots line up in shotgun. His 56 of 61 catches  six of his seven touchdown receptions have came from the gun. In these type of situations, Edelman will either be positioned in the slot or positioned where the opposing teams second cornerback is. Look for Broncos Pro Bowl corner Chris Harris JR (yielded the fewest yards per coverage snap in the slot at 0.44) to follow him all day long when New England is in the gun.                         (Edleman: 7 Rec 71 yards 0 TD)
• The New England Patriots were decimated with injuries on the offensive line this season. They struggle in pass protection, but they benefit from Tom Brady's 2.21 seconds release time. Brady is arguably the best scanning quarterback in the NFL. This means that Brady is able to place the football where only his receivers can posses it. When he feels heavy pressure coming, Brady knows where his receiver will be, while keeping an eye on roaming defenders. Just when a defensive player obliterates Brady, he hits his receiver for a solid gain. Denver Broncos defensive coordinator Wade Phillips is well aware of Brady's abilities and has the talent to keep Brady under duress. Broncos outside linebacker Von Miller is a very talented pass rusher and is Pro Football Focus fourth best edge rusher. The Patriots lack depth on the interior and the Denver Broncos have one of the strongest three-technique groups in the NFL. Players such as Malik Jackson, Derek Wolfe, and Sylvester Williams will plug the A and B gaps, which creates openings for blitzing Broncos. In order to pressure Brady, you will need your interior to control the line of scrimmage. (Broncos: 4 Sacks)
• Denver Broncos wide receiver Demariuys Thomas has had the bad case of butter fingers recently. Thomas dropped two crucial passes in last week's victory over the Steelers. He faces a talented cornerback Malcolm Butler, who has a knack of shutting down opponents number one receivers. Butler held Thomas to one reception for thirty-six yards in their last showdown. Thomas will need to limit dropped passes and will need to use his underrated speed and route running to get the best of Butler. Butler is more of a contain quarterback and usually does not give up the big play. He has the speed to catch up with defenders, but Thomas can use his size as an advantage. The Patriots safties are tough to pick a part and it's up to Manning and Kubiak to create seperation for Thomas and Co. I believe Thomas will perform better, but will still be limited. He loves to run the post route and likes to be involved in the screen game. New England ran mostly Cover 3 when defending Thomas, so Denver will need to use fly and option routes to create some open space for Thomas. (Thomas: 4 Rec 62 yards 0 TD)
• The Denver Broncos also struggle at pass protection and need their young offensive tackles to create a comfortable pocket for the aging Manning. The Patriots secret weapon is defensive end Chandler Jones. Jones is a nightmare for all opposing quarterbacks and ranks top five in QB hurries. If Chandler Jones can fly past Peyton's blindside blockers, the Patriots are going to create more turnovers. Even though Denver do not have the best blocking tight ends or running backs in the NFL, they will need to key in on Jones. Look for Peyton to slide the protection to the right and use play action from the gun in order to evade immediate pressure. (Pats: 4 Sacks)
• The Denver Broncos feature the best inside linebacking duo in the NFL. Brandon Marshall and Danny Trevethan are two of the top ten inside linebackers in the NFL. Just like the last matchup, both linebackers have to punish physical tight end Rob Gronkowski. Gronk had previously eclipsed the century mark when these two teams last met. Marshall says that Gronk pushes off 98% of the time, but in relality, Gronk is a freak athlete. His combination of size and speed make him a matchup nightmare. He dominates nearly every facet of the game, except his inconsistent blocking. The Denver safties and linebackers cannot let up against Gronk and punish him with authority, They need to play cover three, bring safties and linebackers up for press coverage, and always have him double teamed. (Gronk: 6/77 yards/1 TD)
• Two players that NFL fans overlook is Patriots nickel corner Logan Ryan and saftey Duron Harmon. Ryan has played like a top twenty corner this season and Pro Football Focus ranks him as the eleventh best corner in the NFL. Harmon is top thirty ranked saftey and plays in a reserve, but key role for the Matt Patricia's defense. Ryan has held quarterbacks to a mere 69.1 passer rating and uses his durability and coverage skills too his advantage. Harmon is a good cover saftey that occasionally will struggle against the run. These two players are the x-factor for the Patriots defense, but do not draw too much attention. Key on these two individuals during the game
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Divisional Playoffs Preview: Seattle Seahawks v.s. Carolina Panthers

Bold Predictions: Panthers 24 - Seahawks 20

• The Carolina Panthers own the best scoring offense and the Seattle Seahawks have the best scoring defense. Scoring is going to be tough in this game because both defenses are physical and maintain their defensive composure. 
• The Seattle Seahawks finally get Beast Mode (Marshawn Lynch) from injury and will try every way to feed him the football. Seattle does not have the best offensive line and faces a tough test in Carolina. Panthers defensive tackle Kawann Short has been dominate against the run and promotes double teams. This will help Carolina's linebackers to get between the tackles and stuff Lynch. Lynch is very physical and his combination of size and shiftiness make him a dangerous back. Key on linebacker Luke Kuechly to plug Lynch's gaps.
• The Carolina Panthers have underrated threats at receiver and tight end Greg Olson caught the game winning touchdown last time the two met. Seattle's KJ Wright and Bobby Wagner have been a formidable duo this year and will be physical with Olson. Ted Ginn JR is going to need to use his speed to get past Richard Sherman. Sherman loves to bump and run and get into opposing team's head early in the game. Look for Cam to find Devin Funchess, his running backs, and try to put Greg Olson in open space. 
• Seattle's Doug Baldwin has been red hot laltey, but faces the arguably the best corner in the game. Carolina's Josh Norman has had a remarkable season and should be able to hold Baldwin in check. He doesn't give a lot of cushion to receivers and has a tendency to break up passes and create turnovers. Seattle's Russel Wilson also likes to throw to Jermaine Kearse, Luke Wilson, and speedy rookie Tyler Lockett. Carolina's defense needs to limit Seattle's big plays and prevent Russel Wilson from rolling out of the pocket.
• Carolina's offensive tackles will have their hands full with speedy ends Cliff Avril and Michael Bennett. Both use spin and power moves to crash the pocket and it's up to Michael Oher and Byron Bell to maintain a comfortable pocket. Cam Newton also loves to flush out of the pocket and either throw on the run or sprint for the first down. Seattle is going to use defensive contains and quarterback man spy to prevent Newton from getting loose. Look for a similar gameplan from Carolina's defense to contain Russell Wilson.

Divisional Playoffs Preview: Green Bay Packers v.s. Arizona Cardinals

After faltering to Arizona, Green Bay looks to avenge their misfortune in Glendale. Arizona won in every facet of the game in their 38-8 victory. Green Bay has another opportunity to end the Cardinals perfect home playoff record. They overcame an early eleven point deficit against the Washington Redskins, but face an even bigger obstacle in Arizona. With the loss of receivers Andrew Quarless and Davantae Adams, Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers will need to adjust with an already inconsistent receiving corp. Their opponent, the Arizona Cardinals, are no stranger to the injury bug. The Cardinals lost playmaking defensive back Tyrann Mathieu to a torn ACL and have regressed against the pass. Each team has overcome adversity, but only one will advance. Here are my predictions for tonight's matchup. 

Bold Predictions: Cardinals 31 - Packers 20

• Drops have haunted the Packers all year long. Not having Davantae Adams and Andrew Quarless hurts this receiving core. Wide Receiver James Jones has performed well after his new hoodie method, but Rodgers needs more support from other players. Arizona's pass defense is tough, but beatable with the loss of Tyrann Mathieu. For Green Bay's receivers to succeed against Arizona's secondary, they need to be able to get seperation and permit drops. Drops are a killer to a passing game and eventually forces an offense into long third downs. Green Bay needs to use crossing, drag, hitch, stutter, and pump and go routes to creat seperation. Green Bay's receivers are not as quick as Arizona's secondary, which is why I give the advantage to Arizona here. Patrick Peterson and Co. are going to limit Green Bay's weapons, but Rodgers will still have a decent game. (Rodgers: 278 yards 2 TD 1 INT, 1 lost fumble, 4 projected drops)
• Arizona's defense generated lots of pressure on Rodgers in their last meeting and will create problems for Green Bay's offensive line. Guard Josh Sitton is considered the best blocking offensive guard in the NFL and TJ Lang is playing at a Pro Bowl level. However, Dwight Freeney's unique spin move and Arizona's blitz schemes will force Rodgers to escape the rush. Green Bay's tackles are the weakness of their o-line. (Arizona Projected 5 Sacks)
• Running Back Eddie Lacy and James Starks form a formidable 1-2 punch, but Arizona's run defense has been stout. Lacy is going to struggle running in between the tackles, but Starks shiftiness and good vision makes him the better bet. Both are power runners, but Lacy is best in the screen game and when Green Bay uses power tosses. Arizona has very quick linebackers and are led by Pro Bowl defensive lineman Calais Campbell. Starks and Lacy will combine for 90 yards on the ground and 52 threw the air. 
• Arizona quarterback Carson Palmer should have a solid day against Green Bay. The Packers have really underrated depth at corner, but lack expierence. Carson Palmer has three good receivers Larry Fitzgerald, John Brown, and Michael Floyd), but Green Bay's combination of press coverage and zone will work. I believe that Carson Palmer will throw for 277 yards and 2 TD, but Green Bay will pick him off twice. Michael Floyd will make the biggest impact out of the trio with 6 catches, 107 yards, and a touchdown.
• The Green Bay Packers have a solid front seven and are often overlooked. One of the best 3-4 defensive lineman is Mike Daniels. Daniels is great in the trenches, and is an excellent run defender. He will also use power and swing moves to pressure the quarterback. Arizona has a great center in Lyle Sendlin, but struggle in the interior. Look for Daniels to help free Green Bay linebackers and hurry Carson Palmer's throws. 
• The Arizona Cardinals have very fast linebackers. Packers Aaron Rodgers is another underrated running quarterback and is accurate when rolling out of the pocket. Key on hybrid converted saftey to linebacker Deon Buchanon is going to spy on Rodgers with fellow teammate Kevin Minter. Arizona needs to use quarterback contain and man spy to swallow up Rodgers game. Rodgers will gain 40 yards on the ground and Buchanon is going to be the reason for limiting Rodger's game

Divisional Playoffs Preview: Kansas City Chiefs v.s. New England Patriots

The first game of the divisional round is about to begin as the Chiefs prepare to take on the Patriots in Foxborough. Patriots head coach Bill Belichick can still mirror his team's daunting performance in their last meeting with the Chiefs. The Chiefs embarrassed New England 41-14 at Arrowhead Stadium last year and seemed to doom the Patriots chances of makng the playoffs. However, that game proved to be a turning point to the Patriots fourth Super Bowl title. Despite the recent meeting, both teams are implementing new strategies to counter their opponent. Both New England and Kansas City have overcome adversity this season, courtesy of the injury bug. While Kansas City is riding on an 11-game winning streak, New England is gaining key players from injury. Will the Chiefs Pass Rush and Alex Smith's mistake-free football surge the Chiefs to the AFC Championship Game, or will the return of Edelman and Gronk prevent Kansas City from ending their Foxborough losing streak?

Bold Predictions: Patriots 23 - Chiefs 17

• Kansas City's ferocious pass-rush is going to keep Brady in check for the majority of game. Even though outside linebacker Justin Houston is not 100%, his presence gives defensive coordinator Bob Sutton the ability to dial up zone blitzes and put the Patriots Tom Brady under duress. Look for more overload blitzes on Brady's blind side and key on nose tackle Dontari Poe, who clogs up the interior of the offensive line. (Chiefs: 4 Sacks)
• Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels is going to get Edelman and Amendola involved in the passing game early and often. Look for McDaniels to employ All-Pro Tight End Rob Gronkowski as a decoy. This forces the Chiefs defense to put more personnel on Gronk, which gives Brady the opportunity to look find his two favorite slot receivers. Look for Brady to use audibles, motion either Amendola or Edelman, or have Edeleman and Amendola both line up in the slot. These two could have big days if they are able to manuever past the taller Sean Smith and Marcus Peters. (Edelman: 7 Rec 77 yards 0 TD, Amendola: 6 Rec 58 yards 1 TD)
• The Kansas City Chiefs have two threats in tight end Travis Kelce and wide receiver Jeremy Maclin. Bill Belichick and his defensive coordinator Matt Patricia both do a phenominal job of stopping team's offensive weapons. Underrated, but talented corner Malcolm Butler will be shadowing Maclin, who is available despite an ailing kneee injury. Look for the Patriots trio of safties (Chung, Harmon, McCourtey) cover over the top against the Maclin and play physical at the line with Kelce. Dont'a Hightower and Jamie Collins are two very athletic linebackers that can keep up with the game's best tight ends. Both of these players should be able to punish Kelce, who had a big day against the Texans last week. Minimizing this option will give Matt Patricia to use nickel blitzes with Logan Ryan and other Patriots defensive backs, in order to pressure Alex Smith. Maclin may break one open in the middle of the field, but Butler should keep him in check. (Maclin: 4 Rec 68 yards 0 TD, Kelce: 5 Rec 61 yards 0 TD)
• Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Alex Smith is arguably the game's most underrated running quarterback. He ranked fourth in rushing among quarterbacks and his ability to scramble his a key part to his game. New England needs defensive ends Chandler Jones and Rob Ninkovich, and their outside linebackers to play a contain game with Smith. Smith is at his best on boot-legs and rolling out of the pocket. If New England can keep Smith in the pocket, this will allow the Patriots to play more Cover 3 and Cover 4 (Zone Coverages). I say that Smith rushes for 44 yards, but that will be on one key third down play and an option in garbage time. 
• Both the Chiefs and Patriots rank top ten in sacks and completion percentage allowed. Both of their weakest links on the offensive line are at offensive tackle. Their is going to be lots of pressure coming from the edge and both teams need to use extra blockers. Chandler Jones will have a dance party on the field against Chiefs left tackle Eric Fisher. The former 2013 first overall pick out of Central Michigan has not lived up to his potential and struggles in pass protection. Chiefs right tackle Donald Stehenson is not any better, so Ninkovich has the opportunity to have a day too. On the other hand, New England gets Sebastian Vollmer back, but Marcus Cannon is going to have issues with Justin Houston. Both Jones and Houston should have no problem getting to the quarterback. Hali/Ford and Ninkovich could also boast some solid numbers against their opposing tackles.
• Despite being named to the Pro Bowl, most people overshadow Macus Peters pass coverage skills. He gave up over 900 yards receiving and 8 touchdowns during the regular season. Even though he set the record for most times being targeted by a cornerback, Brady is going to test Peters with everthing he's got. Peters will see a lot of combinations from Josh McDaniels, so expect Peters to have his hands full all day long.
• Both teams take away the ball a lot on defense, but protect the ball well on offense. Foxborough has been very lucky for most teams in the playoffs and the Chiefs haven't won a game their since 1990. The Patriots scheme of containing Alex Smith is enventually going to pay off. As for the Chiefs, they need to prioritize on keeping Brady under duress and not allowig the big play. Other than the Cardinals, Seahawks, and Eagles, no team poses a better saftey combination than the Chiefs and Patriots. They are going to be all over the field seeking a tackaway. Kansas City loves to bring the heat with their safties, and especially Ron Parker. He loves to attack gaps between the center and guard which bodes well for the Chiefs triple threat. (Patriots: 3 Takaways, Chiefs: 1 Takaway)
• The Chiefs have a top five inside linebacker in Derrick Johnson. His instincts, speed. toughness, and awareness make him a great linebacker. However, covering Rob Gronkowski is a very tough task. Gronk is probably the most difficult receiver to defend against because os his dangerous combination of basketball skills, height, break tackle ability, and speed. Johnson is good in coverage, but needs  Eric Berry, Tyvon Branch, Ron Parker, and Husain Abdullah to step up and stop Gronk. (Gronk: 6 Rec 91 yards 1 TD) (Johnson: 7 Tackles, 1 TFL, 2 PD)
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Wild Card Preview: Kansas City Chiefs v.s. Houston Texans

Back in week one, the Chiefs stormed out to a big lead and defeated Hosuton at Reliant Stadium. However, since then both teams have endured significant injuries and have overcome obstacles to clinch a playoff berth, Each team lost their star running back (Arian Foster: Texans and Jamaal Charles: Chiefs) and boast a top five defense. While Houston has overcome a wacky quarterback carousel, Kansas City found insurance from their gifted running back comittee. Today's enticing matchup features great pass rushers, entertining matchups on the outside, and stingy defenses. Each team also ranks top ten in nearly every defensive category and features good deep threats at wide receiver. However, who will be able to execute their game plan and keep their composure?

Projected Score: Chiefs 23 - Texans 20

Bold Predictions:

• Kansas City Chiefs rookie cornerback Marcus Peters will have his hands full with Texans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins. Look for Hoyer to target Hopkins early and often against the vulnerbable Peters (set NFL record for most targets in a single-season and has given up more than 1,000 receiving yards). Despite being a playmaker, Hopkins is going to turn on the jets early. Hopkins Projected Stats: 7 Rec 122 Yards 0 TD
• The rushing trio of Dee Ford, Justin Houston, and Tamba Hali are going to put Brian Hoyer under duress all day long. Losing All-Pro left tackle Duane Brown gives Kansas City the opportunity to take advantage of Houston's weaker front. 
• Kansas City's running game in the fourth quarter will open up play-action for the Chiefs Alex Smith. Smith loves using boot-legs to the left side of the field (82.8 Comp. %, 6 TD, 0 INT, 142.2 Passer Rating). 
• JJ Watt is going to manhandle the Chiefs offensive tackles. Kansas City's weak spot on the o-line is at tackle, where Watt usually lines opposite of. This creates a Watt nightmare and the interior of the Chiefs will struggle in the early going. Double Teams will free up Whitney Mercilus, Brian Cushing, and John Simon. Watt will sack Smith twice, but will be slowed down in the second half, due to Clowney's injury. 
• Alfred Blue is going to take a seat against Kansas City's front seven. Dontari Poe and company are going to control the line of scrimmage and give the Chiefs Big Three (Houston, Hali, and Ford) to pressure Brian Hoyer. Blue Projections: 17 Att/51 Yards/0 TD
• Look for Travis Kelce to find holes in Houston's secondary and take advantage of the middle of the field. Kelce is going to come up big and haul in a TD sometime in this game. Travis Kelce Projected Stats: 6 Rec/79 Yards/1 TD 
• Texans corner Jonathan Joseph will impact Chiefs Wide Receiver Jeremy Maclin with some bump and run early in the game. Romeo Crennel is creative when it comes to shutting down team's best weapons. Look for over the top, cover three/four looks. At one point in the game, look for Smith to test Joseph's speed against the agile Maclin (It's going to succeeed once) Maclin projected stats: 5 Rec 77 yards 0 TD
• De'Anthony Thomas is going to pick up key third downs for Kansas City. Look for him in single back sets on third down. Look for Offensive Coordinator Doug Pederson knows how to utilize backs such as Thomas. Look for Thomas to play a Brian Westbrook type role in this offense
• The advantage for both teams on special teams is the punting game. Look for Texans Shane Lechler and the Chiefs Dustin Colquitt pin both offenses deep
• The screen game is something the Chiefs like to use. Keep an eye on defensive backs Kareem Jackson, Joseph, Andre Hall, and A.J. Bouyce. They will use a combination of conservative play, flat zone coverage, and aggressiveness to counter screens

Key Matchups:

• Chiefs Marcus Peters v.s. Texans DeAndre Hopkins
• Chiefs Travis Kelce v.s. Texans Brian Cushing/Andre Hall
• Chiefs Jeremy Maclin v.s. Texans Jonathan Joseph
• Chiefs Dontari Poe v.s. Texans Brandon Brooks
• Chiefs Justin Houston v.s. Texans Derek Newton
• Chiefs Running Game v.s. Texans Front Seven
• Chiefs Offensive Line v.s. Texans JJ Watt
• Chiefs Derrick Johnson v.s. Texans Alfed Blue

Cincinnati Bengals v.s. Pittsburgh Steelers Wild Card Preview

The last time these two rivals faced off in the wild card round, Pittsburgh romped Cincinnati 31-17. Pittsburgh made a playoff run and were Super Bowl XL champions that season. However, that playoff game occurred ten years ago and each team has altered their game plans. The rivalry has not changed and the stakes are still high. Cincinnati has not won a playoff game since 1990 and need backup quarterback A.J. McCarron to come in clutch. He has the opportunity pick a part the Steelers soft secondary and become the first Bengal quarterback to throw a touchdown in his first career playoff start. Cincinnati will hope to avenge their week thirteen loss against Pittsburgh, but face a huge challenge in the Steelers high-octane offense. Pittsburgh high-flying offense has been a problem for defenses all season long, despite losing Pro Bowl running back Le'Veon Bell to a torn ACL. Will Cincinnati prevail and keep Big Ben and the Steelers offense in check or will Pittsburgh hand Marvin Lewis and the Bengals another playoff loss?

My Prediction: Bengals 30 - Steelers 27

Bold Predictions in Matchup:

• Cornerback Adam Jones (allowed only one touchdown during the regular season) will do solid job shadowing Steelers All-Pro Antonio Brown. He will get help from safeties George Illoka and Reggie Nelson. Brown will surpass 100 yards, but held out of the end zone
• McCarron will throw 2 TD and 1 INT (To Marvin Jones and Tyler Eifert)
• Pittsburgh defense will struggle in the red zone because Bengals Offensive Coordinator Hue Jackson is going to surprise Mike Tomlin with some trickery.
• A.J. Green is a matchup nightmare against William Gay (Projected: 7 Rec 150 yards)
• Vontaze Burficit lockeroom energy will fire up the Bengals defense. Burficit despises Pittsburgh and is hungry for a victory
• Ben Roethlisberger will throw for 350 yards, but throw two critical interceptions in the second half
• The Bengals offensive line will manhandle Steelers pass rush, but struggle to open up lanes for Jeremy Hill and Giovanni Bernard.
• Marvin Lewis finally gets that playoff victory

Key Matchups:

• Steelers RT Marcus Gilbert vs Bengals DE Carlos Dunlap
• WR Antonio Brown v.s CB Adam Jones
• RG Kevin Zeitler v.s. NT Steve McClendon/DE Cameron Heyward
• TE Tyler Eifert v.s. ILB Lawrence Timmons
• DT Geno Atkins v.s. RG David DeCastro