NFL Conference Championship Matchup Picks

New England (-13.5) vs. San Diego

As anyone one of Bill Belichick's boys will tell you, the Chargers (or <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CepkO_buVEk">Super Chargers</a>, if you please) have been the best team in football over the last 8 weeks. They are without a doubt a much different team than the one the Patriots thumped 38-14 back in Week 2. However, this weekend they may be without their three biggest weapons at full strength, with Antonio Gates, LaDanian Tomlinson, and Phillip Rivers all questionable or doubtful for Sunday's tilt. Michael Turner and Billy Volek filled in admirably after the stars went down last week, leading to their upset over the Colts at Indianapolis, but don't count on the same this week. Turner is arguably the best backup in the league and should have a strong game if LT2 is limited, but I just don't like Volek's chances against a very confusing Patriots defense. I didn't really like Rivers' chances of having much success, and I give Volek no shot at all. Look for the Hooded One to mix up coverage, as the Pat key in on the run and force the SD QB (whoever it is) to try to beat them with his arm and without his #1 target in Gates. I think the SD defense and predicted windy conditions will keep it close, but don't look for much scoring from either side.

Patriots 17, Chargers 10

Green Bay (-7.5) vs. New York Giants

I said this last week and I'm sticking with it, even though the Giants made me look foolish. I don't trust Eli Manning. When did this kid learn how to be comfortable in the pocket? Was it osmosis? Did he absorb pocket presence from Tom Brady in Week 17? Actually, what happened last week was the Cowboys inexplicably decided not to rush him. Don't expect the Packers to make the same mistake. Besides, would you bet against Brett Fav-ruh in a snowstorm? Me either. He could be 90 years old and wheelchair-bound and he'd still find a way to win. And if Ryan Grant runs as well in the snow as he did last week, the Giants are in for a long day.

Packers 28, Giants 7

This scenario obviously sets up what will be one of the greatest Good vs. Evil Superbowls since The Raiders beat down the Redskins in Super Bowl XVIII. Seriously, is there a soul south of Hartford that would be rooting against Brett Fav-ruh in this situation? I can't wait to root for the bad guys.