1. New York Jets (+7.5) vs. Indianapolis Colts
Sometimes it’s too difficult to tempt fate. This is one of those times. While we actually think the Colts will win a close one, it’s hard to imagine a scenario where they’ll win by more than 8. In fact, with the way the Jets are playing, both on defense as well as running the ball, we think it’ll be decided by less than four points.
And the reason for that is the Jets possess the most aggressive defense in the Playoffs and Peyton Manning struggles when he has pressure in his face. He gets happy feet and his throws are erratic.
New York will keep everything in front of them and bring waves after No. 18 to disrupt his timing.
Offensively, the Jets will continue to pound the ball in an attempt to shorten the game and keep Manning and Co. cold on the sidelines.
The 7.5 point spread is too much. Take the Jets plus the points and if you believe in fate, and that the stars have aligned to have the team the Colts could’ve eliminated (in Week 16) come back to knock them out of the Playoffs, bet the +250 money line too.
Next In Line
Minnesota Vikings (+3.5) vs. New Orleans Saints
The only reason Brett Favre came back was to have a chance at another ring. He’s 60 minutes away from realizing that goal.
While the Saints might possess a bit more potency on offense than the Vikings do, Minnesota is superior on defense.
And we think the defense will be the difference. The Saints are nearly unbeatable when they go up and down the field and score at will. Not only does it demoralize the opposing defense, it puts intense pressure on the offense to match them score for score. But we don’t see this happening against Leslie Frazier’s defense.
Instead, expect the Vikings to be able to move the ball on both the ground and through the air against the Saints and for its defense, once it has a lead, to pin their ears back and come after Brees.
The final score will be close, but take the 3.5 points as well as the money line (+150).
The story book ending Favre’s been looking for is very close to being realized.
