Friday, January 17, 2014

Saswat’s Picks, 2014 Conference Championships



Saswat Misra


New England Patriots at Denver Broncos

Another classic Manning vs Brady duel which can very well go either way. Both teams have advantages and disadvantages.

First for the Patriots, injuries are still a problem as Brady has lost some of his targets for the season and the defense is thin, too. Luckily, other younger players have stepped up in their absence.

For Denver, their defense can be an issue. No Von Miller for them and they have struggled against the pass for most of the season.

Like most experts, I believe the team that wins will run the football the best, but it will also come down to defense. Knowshon Moreno has had some big games on the ground, but Bill Belichick always has tricks up his sleeve and I think he will have his team and his offense more mentally prepared than the Denver offense as a unit. I don’t trust the Denver defense and that’s why I think the Patriots will ultimately squeak by.

Saswat’s Pick: Patriots beat Broncos, 34-30.


San Francisco 49ers at Seattle Seahawks

This is a pure rivalry game. Both fan bases hate each other and the players don’t like each other. Both teams play physical and are known for their defenses.

Even though both teams are playing with a high level of intensity right now, the Seahawks have a huge advantage in this game. The defense is lights-out. They rarely have a bad game and both times Kaepernick has gone up into Seattle he has played poorly and his team gets blown out.

Seattle is an intimidating place to play in. The defense is phenomenal and Marshawn Lynch is able to run the ball effectively. The 49ers are a good team but Seattle plays with poise, cleverness, and an unmatched physicality that I have not seen since probably the 2000 Ravens.

The only way the 49ers stand a chance is if Kaepernick uses his athleticism because it will be a no-fly zone most of the night for him.

Saswat’s Pick: Seahawks beat 49ers, 34-13.

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