Another year passes and best wishes for 2010 to those who read this blog. Anyway week 17 looms large and there are still a few things to be decided in the AFC anyway where I think any one of 11 teams can mathematically anyway still win the Super bowl.
Last week didn’t answer many AFC questions as the 1st round byes and home field were pretty much sorted and the teams in control of their wild card destiny Baltimore & Denver both managed to lose by 3 points so it’s wide open. The Ravens and Broncos should still make it but it’s sure been exciting for the neutral fans.
As for Week 16s games the major surprise was The Saints losing again and they are not looking too confident at this stage despite having home field advantage. With a tough trip to a reviving Panthers to come they could go in to the post season on a 3 game losing streak which is not the best preparation. I think whoever gets through the wild card game will fancy their chances.
Indy pulled out Manning and co a bit early and I am sure if the Jets make the playoffs there will be a few angry coaches in the AFC who know that the Colts could have cost them their post season place. There should be a rule forcing teams to play hard right to the end as it is very unfair on the other teams.
Philly showed their Jekyll and Hyde characteristics to great effect against the Broncos nearly losing it after seeming in total control. When the Eagles play good they are very good but when not they are really awful. The Division decider against Dallas should be a great game and Dallas do look to be improving at the right time but I still think Philly are a good bet for the Super bowl if they play at their best.
Arizona have again nonchalantly qualified without really getting out of first gear and the Green Bay Packers are a team no one will fancy playing as they seem to be finally getting their offensive line sorted.
The Packers will be hoping to get through the Wild Card game so they can get a chance at their divisional rivals The Vikings who like the Saints look to be on the slide with Favre admitting they looked far from super bowl winners in their overtime defeat to the Bears. Fortunately they will have an extra week to put things right providing they can beat the Giants who’s season ended with a bit of a whimper against the season’s biggest under achievers the Panthers.
Not my best prediction week by far at 9-7 not helped by the Saints and Colts capitulating against teams they should have beaten.
Predictions to week sixteen 162 -78 following this weeks 10-6 performance.