Pigskin picks

The NFL Divisional playoffs are set for today and Sunday and there’s not much to choose between any of the teams.

Today

Atlanta Falcons at Philadelphia Eagles – Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan has been sharp down the stretch and Atlanta has a solid run defence, allowing less than 80 yards a game, and an explosive receiver in Julio Jones. The Eagles are at 23 per cent in third down efficiency since the injury to QB Carson Wentz and that’s not good enough in the playoffs. I see an upset and an Atlanta win.

Tennessee Titans at New England Patriots – This game is a lot closer than one might expect. The Belichick-Brady- Kraft incident may play a factor in this one and don’t forget at age 40, Tom Brady could have an off day. The Titans have a top QB in Marcus Mariota and he’s mobile and talented. On wagering front, betting against the Patriots and Belichick at home is not for me and it shouldn’t be for you.

Sunday

Jacksonville Jaguars at Pittsburgh Steelers – This should be a nail-biter. The Jags intercepted Ben Roethlisberger five times in an early season rout of the Steelers but I don’t think that can happen this time. The key to this game is the availability of all-pro Steelers receiver Antonio Brown, who suffered a calf injury and has not played for three weeks. Brown is a game changer and if he is 100 per cent, I gotta love the Steelers. If he doesn’t play this could be an upset.

New Orleans Saints at Minnesota Vikings – There’s a lot of support for the Saints veteran QB Drew Brees, who would love another Super Bowl on his resume. The Saints have an explosive running game in Alvin Kamara and Mark Ingram, but the Vikings are at home, have a tough defensive club and a rags-to-riches QB story in Case Keenum, who is in the running for league MVP. My heart says Brees but my head tells me bet the Vikings.