2009 AFC Divisional Playoffs Predictions

One thing I will absolutely guarantee will happen this weekend in the 2009 AFC divisional playoff round. If the teams with the byes dominate, the analysts will say it's because they're well rested. If those teams stink up the joint, it'll be because they lost their momentum and were rusty. (Check out my 2009 NFC divisional playoff predictions.)

In the first game, the Ravens (11-5) take on the Titans (13-3). In the Titans, you have a team that people perceive won largely with smoke and mirrors. This is not at all true. Granted, they didn't score a ton of points (15^th in the league) and ranked 27^th in passing yards, but they did outscore their opponents by 141 points, tied with (who else?) the Ravens for tops in the NFL. Like the Ravens, their bread and butter is their defense.

They ranked in the top 10 in all major defensive categories. The Ravens have much better offense than they've had in years past, and rookie quarterback Joe Flacco showed no fear last week in Miami. Still, they excel at running the ball with two capable backs in Le'Ron McClain and veteran Willis McGahee.

Like the Titans, the Ravens are a force to be reckoned with defensively, not allowing much of anything with both passing and rushing. The Titans' offense is almost a carbon copy of the Ravens', with quarterback Kerry Collins experiencing somewhat of a resurgence. With the two teams so evenly matched statistically, I will give the Titans the edge if only for their experienced quarterback and week to rest.

TITANS 17, RAVENS 10

On Sunday the Chargers (8-8) play the Steelers (12-4). Yes, the Chargers have momentum, but they will be without running back LaDainian Tomlinson. The Steelers are very stingy defensively, ranking first in the league in points allowed, total yards allowed, rushing yards allowed, and were second in passing yards allowed. The loss of LT will prove too much to overcome.

The Steelers' offense is no great shakes, but they don't have to be when their defense gives up less than 14 points a game. They beat some impressive teams during the season, and their four losses were to the Eagles, Giants, Colts, and a meaningless week 16 defeat to the Titans. Because LT is unavailable, the Chargers will have to rely on their passing game, and the Steelers will be ready for them.

STEELERS 30, CHARGERS 6