Don't count out Chiefs
SUNDAY
Chiefs (+3.5) over RAVENS; Over 44.5: It has been demonstrated to us that these Chiefs have yet-to-be-displayed offensive resources, and could be further persuaded to display those resources near-parity with the favored Ravens.
This season’s Ravens already have shown grit, determination and stick-to-itiveness in tight situations. And they do have the additional advantage of their home field.
Lamar Jackson, Odell Beckham Jr. and associates hung up a 13-4 regular season to reach this year’s playoffs, and just last week notched a 24-point victory over the improving Texans.
Nevertheless, coming off a relatively pedestrian season, the Chiefs come into this game after a wildcard playoff thrashing of the Dolphins and the emotional punishing of the Bills. Add to that, they’re actually getting points on the road.
And, of course, coach Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes and the rest of this Chief’s roster have proven themselves comfortable in postseason play. Mahomes is 13-3 in the postseason in his career, and hasn’t lost a playoff game since the 2021 season.
Off all that, we believe there’s further gas in the tank and still better things ahead.
49ERS (-7) over Lions; Over 51: Detroit hasn’t won a championship since 1957, and, though there may be limits to human memory, that win actually came against the 49ers. Nearly 70 years later, the 49ers have a chance to gain their comeuppance.
In the past two NFC championship games, San Francisco wasn’t able to overcome the Eagles or the Rams, but these Lions don’t seem to have that kind of staying power.
These two teams finished the regular season 12-5, but the 49ers had generally stronger showings in those wins. We’re concerned about the broad injury list for the 49ers. Nevertheless, San Francisco’s skill players are more than capable of threatening the Lions defense on their best days.
The Niners’ Christian McCaffrey will be on hand and Deebo Samuel returned to limited practice Thursday, recovering from a shoulder injury. Their presence, along with that of Trent Williams, would be especially good news for Kyle Shanahan, Brock Purdy and the San Francisco faithful.
With Lions tight end Sam LaPorta’s knee injury still in play, coach Dan Campbell and Jared Goff could be looking to maximize other options.
The Lions defense as currently constituted is likely unable to stop the Frisco offense at full throttle, and is capable of making multiple fatal mistakes. Meanwhile, their playoff wins have come against two appreciably weaker defenses. Now, after those victories against the Rams and Buccaneers , the Lions are in the position of facing a consistently stubborn stop unit in the 49ers. Even getting 7 points, these Lions seem overmatched.
LAST WEEK: 3-1 SEASON: 109-120-9