Saswat’s Picks, 2014 Divisional Playoffs

Saswat Misra

New Orleans Saints at Seattle Seahawks

The Saints have proven they can win on the road in the postseason, but they will go up against a team that boasts probably the best home field advantage in all of the NFL. Having played them before helps, but Seattle is rested, healthier, and I believe the better team.

It will probably be closer than the last time these two teams met, but the 12^th man will do their damage again.

Saswat’s Pick: Seahawks beat Saints, 34-24.

Indianapolis Colts at New England Patriots

Andrew Luck showed why he is one of the best young quarterbacks in the league last week by leading one of the greatest comebacks in NFL postseason history. He and his team have plenty of momentum, but they will have to go into Foxboro.

Tom Brady has only lost at home in the divisional round once in his career. He doesn’t have the plethora of weapons like in years past, but he knows how to get it done when it matters.

Luck will have a successful NFL career, but it’s too early to see him outduel Tom Brady and the Patriots, especially on the road.

Saswat’s Pick: Patriots beat Colts, 38-27.

San Francisco 49ers at Carolina Panthers

Another interesting matchup that could turn out to be a fun game. The Panther defense has been great all season and they play with great consistency, which is key. On the other side, Kaepernick is playing at the level we saw him play at last year.

Even though both defenses are amazing, I don’t think the Panthers are ready for this yet. The 49ers are the reigning NFC Champions and are playing their best football of the season. I don’t see Carolina stopping them.

Saswat’s Pick: 49ers beat Panthers, 24-13.

San Diego Chargers at Denver Broncos

The Chargers might be the hottest team in the postseason now. Rivers is back to the Rivers of old, playing at a Pro Bowl level. Plus the defense is getting it done when it matters most.

Peyton had one of the best seasons a quarterback has ever had, but I don’t consider the Broncos a runaway favorite. The defense has flaws and Peyton has had a habit of underperforming in the postseason. Add the fact that this is a rivalry game and San Diego has beaten the Broncos in earlier in the season. Finally, not that Rivers is 2-0 against Manning in the playoffs.

With all that said, I will go Denver. I just can’t see them lose for a second straight year as the number one seed. Expect Manning and company to come out hungry.

Saswat’s Pick: Broncos beat Chargers, 41-38.