THERE are eight teams left in the playoffs and from here on out it’s win or go home for everyone. Some compelling games pose a lot of questions heading into the divisional round, with injuries, match-ups and home field advantage all playing a major role. What questions do we want answered the most though?
Can Aaron Rodgers remain superhuman without Jordy Nelson?
IF last weekend is any example then Rodgers and Co will be just fine. He was able to find Cobb and Adams in the end zone and downfield with ease against what was supposedly a ‘dominant’ Giants defense. The Cowboys are another story all together though. Missing your lead receiver is a big deal no matter who you are. The Packers have the receiving depth to soften the blow though. Besides it’s Aaron f*#$ing Rodgers, he isn’t from this planet. Rules don’t apply to him.
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How banged up is Big Ben?
THERE are serious concerns about Ben Roethlisberger’s health. After the Steelers offense burned Miami last weekend, everyone finally saw what the Steelers are capable of these playoffs. Even with Roethlisberger in a moon boot at his post game press conference, the Steelers are still a dangerous team. But you have to wonder how far can Big Ben carry them though if the QB is under constant duress and pain?
Which Seattle team will show up?
They unleashed their dominant run game last weekend headlined by Thomas Rawls, who clocked up a Seahawks postseason record for rushing yards. It’s unfair to expect Rawls and Seattle to replicate those numbers, and it’s worth pointing out that he had more rushing yards on Saturday (161) than in the last four games of the regular season combined (123). If they can unleash a somewhat similar run attack and Wilson is given time to pick apart Atlanta’s secondary, watch out.
Will Whitney Mercilus and Jadeveon Clowney kill Tom Brady?
BECAUSE let’s be honest that’s about the only way that the Texans can defeat the Patriots. It shapes as a great test for Houston, taking on the GOAT in his own building for a chance to advance to the championship round. While it remains a pipe dream to advance, one thing that became evident after last weekend is that the pass rush pair of Whitney Merciles and Jadeveon Clowney are going to cause Tom Brady issues. Combining for two sacks and an interception last week, if they can replicate similar numbers this game may be closer than the Pats would like.
Will the Chiefs cash in on their week off?
A potential ailing Roethlisberger, home field advantage, a weeks rest and their best record in over a decade. The stars are aligning for the Kansas City Chiefs, who are making their second straight appearance in the divisional round. Will having a week off stall the momentum they had created or will the rested Chiefs tear through the Steelers? I’m tipping this one to be exciting, high scoring and to go down to the wire.
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