12 Hours of Football

Between the first 2 weekends of the NFL playoffs, and the first 2 weekends (4-day weekends) of March Madness, it doesn't get any better. This past weekend was a semi-dud with blowouts in 2 games, and a game featuring NFC East teams that just that aren't compelling. The bright spot was clearly the wild finish at Dallas-Seattle, and not just on the botched hold. There was the Cowboys stop on 4th down, the crazy fumble safety play, the ensuing touchdown, the overturn on 1 yard line and then the botched snap.

But this weekend looks to be incredible. Here are my quick thoughts on the Divisional Round:

Colts at Ravens, Saturday 3:30 CST, CBS
Big O vs Big D
Peyton and his playoff struggles vs (arguably) the #1 defense
I wasn't sold on the Ravens all year, but they've proven me wrong
People were writing off the Colts, even as they were 8-0. But their defense is healthier and could play well enough to win.
Intrigue Factor: 9.0

Eagles at Saints, Saturday, 7:00 CST, FOX
Jeff Garcia? The Saints? In the playoffs?
The Saints only have one playoff win. Ever. They've never had a playoff bye. Can they really succeed in the playoffs?
What about Reggie Bush? First year and he could have a huge impact in the playoffs. Is this the start of a Hall of Fame career?
The Garcia led eagles are on a 6-0 streak. Can they keep it up?
Seriously, though. The Saints? Katrina and all?
Intrigue Factor: 9.5

Seahawks at Bears, Sunday 12:00 CST, FOX
Rex Grossman stinks. Bears D can't be beat.
Shaun Alexander still not in his '05 form.
Will Grossman blow the game for the Bears?
Intrigue Factor: 8.5

Patriots at Chargers, Sunday 3:30 CST, CBS
The Best Team vs The Best Coach
The Coach that blows it in the playoffs with the best player
The Quarterback that doesn't lose in the playoffs against a top defense
Brady's 11-1 in the playoffs
LT is the MVP
Martyball vs Bellicheck
The Chargers look like a clear cut favorite, but the Patriots have everything you want (except LT)
Intrigue Factor: 9.5

Here's to a weekend of great games.