AFC playoff preview: Deep field means tough sledding
NFC preview
Let's face facts: The team that comes through the AFC playoffs will be the Super Bowl favorite.
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| Richard Seymour and the Pats are hardly a sure thing. (US Presswire) |
We have another perceived defensive team (Jaguars) scoring a franchise-record 411 points.
The Patriots finished at 16-0 and are the odds-on favorite to win the AFC and go to the Super Bowl.
But you never know. The AFC is tough.
Now here's a quick look at the six AFC teams:
1. New England Patriots
The skinny: They went 16-0 in the regular season and all anybody wants to talk about is their chances of a truly perfect season. If they don't win it all, none of those 16 victories will matter. But they are explosive, and most everyone thinks they'll be in the Super Bowl.
Key stat: The Patriots give up 4.4 yards per rush, which is the highest of the 12 playoff teams. That means teams with strong ground games should find success running it right at them.
Player on the spot: Running back Laurence Maroney has been the target of plenty of criticism, but he actually has better numbers this season than he did as a rookie. If, as they say, you have to run in the playoffs, he's the guy.
Area of concern: I've been saying all along it was their speed at linebacker. They do a pretty good job of hiding it, but it is an area that can be exposed. I'm not one of those who believes weather will impact the offense, either.
Team strength: Tom Brady to Randy Moss. That passing combo is the best in the NFL. They scare a defense on every snap. Those two are the main reason this team is 16-0.
