NFL Playoffs Conference Semi-finals

Saturday, January 14th


New Orleans (14-3) at San Francisco (13-3)
Line: Saints by 3½

The Saints easily dispatched Detroit last weekend and now their biggest task will be at hand. New Orleans has never won a playoff game on the road, but the on the plus side, the record setting play of Drew Brees all season has given the Saints a very good chance to get the elusive road victory. They must contend with a strong Niners defense, which has given up only 10.9 points per game all season long. If they can stop Brees, they must find a way to score points in the endzone. Contrary to belief that the Saints are unstoppable, they are vulnerable.

Smooth’s Pick – San Francisco (20-17)




Denver (9-8) at New England (13-3)
Line: Patriots by 13½

Another miracle took place last week for Tim Tebow and the Broncos, as they shocked the Pittsburgh Steelers in overtime. They must now face another David/Goliath task as they play on the road against Tom Brady and the Patriots. Earlier this season, New England manhandled Denver in a 41-23 victory during week 15 and ended Tebow’s 6 game winning streak. If the Broncos are going to win this game, they have to stop Brady. If not, it could be a long game.

Smooth’s Pick – New England (36-20)


Sunday, January 15th


Houston (11-6) at Baltimore (12-4)
Line: Ravens by 7½

Rookie QB T.J. Yates held his own as the Ravens defeated the Bengals in their first ever playoff game and win. It remains to be seen if he’ll have success on the road in Baltimore, who were undefeated all season long. In order for the Texans to win, they’ll need a big game from their big running back, Arian Foster, who was held to 49 yards at Baltimore earlier this season. Baltimore’s success will depend on Joe Flacco, who has a tendency to crack during playoff games. He’ll have Anquan Boldin back who missed the last two games of the season. If Ray Rice gets hot running the football, it could be lights out for Houston.

Smooth’s Pick – Baltimore (27-14)




NY Giants (10-7) at Green Bay (15-1)
Line: Packers by 7½

The Giants wanted a rematch with the Packers after losing to them 35-31 in week 13. They’ll get their chance for redemption in Lambeau Field this Sunday. However, the defending Super Bowl champions will have heavy hearts heading into Sunday’s home meeting after the tragic death earlier this week of offensive coordinator Joe Philbin’s son. How the Packers react to this tragedy will be key, because the Giants will be prepared to pull off another upset like they did four years ago in the NFC Championship. The Packers were my pre-season pick to win it all this year, but upon further review…

Smooth’s Pick – NY Giants (28-27)


Last Week's Results

Against The Spread: 1-2-1
Head to Head:2-2