Sorry Pittsburgh, New York, and Chicago (1 Viewer)

[doowain]

I have to admit, even as a fan who has found himself rooting for Atlanta....watching Aaron Rodgers absolutely dismantle the Falcons IN ATLANTA Saturday was a thing of beauty. We already knew Aaron Rodgers was top shelf, but there is absolutely no one playing better right now. Considering the options at WR (imagine if Finley was healthy, gah) and the new found running game, the offense looks absolutely unstoppable.

The other half of the equation....which is what I think makes them the favorite, is their defense. Each of the remaining playoff teams have QBs with a penchant for turning the ball over (some more than others). With two shutdown corners and an impressive pass rush, we're likely to see a major turnover differential in favor of GB in next week's NFC Championship game (hello Cutler) and in the Super Bowl. Aaron Rodgers/Clay Matthews Co-Super Bowl MVPs? I think so....

Rodgers officially leaves Favre's shadow this season.

NOTE: I say this as a completely unbiased football fan.

 

[Godsbrother]

I have to admit, even as a fan who has found himself rooting for Atlanta....watching Aaron Rodgers absolutely dismantle the Falcons IN ATLANTA Saturday was a thing of beauty. We already knew Aaron Rodgers was top shelf, but there is absolutely no one playing better right now. Considering the options at WR (imagine if Finley was healthy, gah) and the new found running game, the offense looks absolutely unstoppable. The other half of the equation....which is what I think makes them the favorite, is their defense. Each of the remaining playoff teams have QBs with a penchant for turning the ball over (some more than others). With two shutdown corners and an impressive pass rush, we're likely to see a major turnover differential in favor of GB in next week's NFC Championship game (hello Cutler) and in the Super Bowl. Aaron Rodgers/Clay Matthews Co-Super Bowl MVPs? I think so....Rodgers officially leaves Favre's shadow this season.NOTE: I say this as a completely unbiased football fan.

And a couple weeks ago people were saying the Patriots were unbeatable. Green Bay does look good but they still have to beat the Bears on the road and then beat the AFC champs so let's wait a couple weeks before we give them the Lombardi.

 

[CrossEyed]

Steelers are the only team left with a significant number of players with SB experience. That doesn't always decide the game, but it's a pretty big factor, imo.

 

[Da Guru]

It will be a Packer-Pitt SuperBowl.

 

[Mello]

Either the Steelers or Jets should be favorites over the Packers if they make it. GB has a one dimensional offense. Stop the pass, you stop GB. Both of those teams have defenses capable of shutting them down.

 

[Go deep]

I have to admit, even as a fan who has found himself rooting for Atlanta....watching Aaron Rodgers absolutely dismantle the Falcons IN ATLANTA Saturday was a thing of beauty. We already knew Aaron Rodgers was top shelf, but there is absolutely no one playing better right now. Considering the options at WR (imagine if Finley was healthy, gah) and the new found running game, the offense looks absolutely unstoppable. The other half of the equation....which is what I think makes them the favorite, is their defense. Each of the remaining playoff teams have QBs with a penchant for turning the ball over (some more than others). With two shutdown corners and an impressive pass rush, we're likely to see a major turnover differential in favor of GB in next week's NFC Championship game (hello Cutler) and in the Super Bowl. Aaron Rodgers/Clay Matthews Co-Super Bowl MVPs? I think so....Rodgers officially leaves Favre's shadow this season.NOTE: I say this as a completely unbiased football fan.

Hopefully the Steelers dont make it though, and not because i think they can beat the Packers. Im not sure i can watch the Refs hand the Steeelers another game. It just ruins an otherwise great sport.

 

[Deranged Hermit]

Either the Steelers or Jets should be favorites over the Packers if they make it. GB has a one dimensional offense. Stop the pass, you stop GB. Both of those teams have defenses capable of shutting them down.

I think the Eagles would didagree with that. Starks looked pretty good against them.

 

[Sabertooth]

I sure hope you are right. Green Bay will beat you with offense and defense both. They can play either type of game. Where they can be defeated is on special teams. They had better keep the ball out of Hester's hands this weekend. Weems got them last weekend. In a closer game that would have been huge. It was huge at the time but Atlanta failed to capitalize on it.

 

[Breesisdaman]

I would like to see Rodgers facing Big Ben in the Superbowl. This is a QB driven league and Sanchez and Cutler just dont have "IT" . I think you could be right though, the Packers look unstoppable to me and Atlanta's defense is not that soft. Green Bay just took them apart.

 

[Steeler]

Im not sure i can watch the Refs hand the Steeelers another game. It just ruins an otherwise great sport.

 

[The Westin]

And a couple weeks ago people were saying the Patriots were unbeatable. Green Bay does look good but they still have to beat the Bears on the road and then beat the AFC champs so let's wait a couple weeks before we give them the Lombardi.

Chicago poses a bigger problem for Green Bay than most acknowledge. The defense Chi runs has given McCarthy problems since he's coached Green Bay, for the most part. If Chicago develops any kind of a running game Green Bay may be in trouble. I know Rodgers played lights out against Atlanta, but they won't be playing in a dome in Chicago. Bad weather + a good Chicago defense will make this a very interesting game. As of right now I don't think it's supposed to snow, but it's definitely not going to be dome conditions.Add on to that, Pittsburgh has the best defense in the league. The Jets held GB to 3 field goals (albeit a very windy day) and I wouldn't go handing that Lombardi trophy over just yet.Lot's of football left to play.

 

[Evilgrin 72]

I'm rooting for Chicago because the teams that give the Steelers the most problems defensively are teams helmed by QBs who can make quick decisions before LeBeau's exotic pass rushes get to them, and can run a quick-strike timing-based offense. Brady, Brees, and Manning are 3 such guys, and other teams already took care of them for us. Rodgers is another, so I'm hoping Chicago knocks them out.

By the way, if it does turn out to be a GB/PIT Super Bowl, we can only hope it's as wildly entertaining as last year's PIT/GB tussle. For any who may not have seen it, or forgot, look at this :

12/20/09 - Pittsburgh 37 Green Bay 36.

Total Yards - PIT 537, GB 436

First Downs - PIT 28, GB 18

Turnovers - 0

Points scored in 4th quarter - 35

Game winning play : Roethlisberger 19 yd TD pass to Wallace with 0:00 on the clock.

46 first downs, 73 points scored and damn near 1,000 yards of offense.

ETA : QB stats in the game -

Rodgers 26-48 for 383 yards, 3 TDs (plus 1 TD rushing) / 0 INT, 101.3 rating

Roethlisberger 29-46 for 503 yards, 3 TDs / 0 INT, 121.9 rating

 

[CrossEyed]

I'm rooting for Chicago because the teams that give the Steelers the most problems defensively are teams helmed by QBs who can make quick decisions before LeBeau's exotic pass rushes get to them, and can run a quick-strike timing-based offense. Brady, Brees, and Manning are 3 such guys, and other teams already took care of them for us. Rodgers is another, so I'm hoping Chicago knocks them out. By the way, if it does turn out to be a GB/PIT Super Bowl, we can only hope it's as wildly entertaining as last year's PIT/GB tussle. For any who may not have seen it, or forgot, look at this :12/20/09 - Pittsburgh 37 Green Bay 36.Total Yards - PIT 537, GB 436First Downs - PIT 28, GB 18Turnovers - 0Points scored in 4th quarter - 35Game winning play : Roethlisberger 19 yd TD pass to Wallace with 0:00 on the clock.46 first downs, 73 points scored and damn near 1,000 yards of offense.

Lots of ED visits if the SB looks like that.

 

[Bayhawks]

I have to admit, even as a fan who has found himself rooting for Atlanta....watching Aaron Rodgers absolutely dismantle the Falcons IN ATLANTA Saturday was a thing of beauty. We already knew Aaron Rodgers was top shelf, but there is absolutely no one playing better right now. Considering the options at WR (imagine if Finley was healthy, gah) and the new found running game, the offense looks absolutely unstoppable. The other half of the equation....which is what I think makes them the favorite, is their defense. Each of the remaining playoff teams have QBs with a penchant for turning the ball over (some more than others). With two shutdown corners and an impressive pass rush, we're likely to see a major turnover differential in favor of GB in next week's NFC Championship game (hello Cutler) and in the Super Bowl. Aaron Rodgers/Clay Matthews Co-Super Bowl MVPs? I think so....Rodgers officially leaves Favre's shadow this season.NOTE: I say this as a completely unbiased football fan.

Couple of things.1-Rodgers is playing phenomenally right now, and if he keeps it up, it's going to be tough for a team to beat him. However, the Eagles and Falcons aren't great at pass defense (14th and 22nd in pass defense, respectively in 2010). The Jets and Steelers (if the Packers get there) are better (6th & 12th, respectively).2-You cite the Packers "new-found running game." Is this the same running game that rushed for 84 whole yards in a game where they were up by 21+ points for the entire 2nd half? They had a good run game against the Eagles, but it was not even close to being good against the Falcons. One good game doesn't make a dangerous running game.3- You cite "Each of the remaining playoff teams have QBs with a penchant for turning the ball over." What exactly is a "penchant for turning the ball over?" Roethlisberger had 5 INT this year (in 12 games, pro-rated over 16 games, it equals 7), Rodgers had 11 (in 15 games, pro-rated over 16 games, it equals 12), Sanchez had 13, and Cutler had 16 (in 15 games,pro-rated over 16 games, it equals 17). So, of the remaining 4 QBs, Rodgers is substantially better at not turning the ball over then Cutler, and only slightly better than Sanchez, but he is substantially worse than Roethlisberger.4-Both the Steelers and Jets defenses are just as good, if not better, than the Packers defense. While the Pack may have a defensive advantage when they play the Bears, they will not have that edge in the SB. And, if you want to use the "momentum" argument when it comes to the D's, the Steelers allowed 160 total yards on Saturday, and the Jets have contained Peyton Manning and Tom Brady so far. I'd bet they have just as much, if not more, momentum as the Packers have.Maybe next time, before you issue premature "apologies," you actually look at the whole picture and think about what you're posting, um-kay?

 

[bicycle_seat_sniffer]

you wanna crown their ###, then go ahead and crown em

 

[doowain]

I have to admit, even as a fan who has found himself rooting for Atlanta....watching Aaron Rodgers absolutely dismantle the Falcons IN ATLANTA Saturday was a thing of beauty. We already knew Aaron Rodgers was top shelf, but there is absolutely no one playing better right now. Considering the options at WR (imagine if Finley was healthy, gah) and the new found running game, the offense looks absolutely unstoppable. The other half of the equation....which is what I think makes them the favorite, is their defense. Each of the remaining playoff teams have QBs with a penchant for turning the ball over (some more than others). With two shutdown corners and an impressive pass rush, we're likely to see a major turnover differential in favor of GB in next week's NFC Championship game (hello Cutler) and in the Super Bowl. Aaron Rodgers/Clay Matthews Co-Super Bowl MVPs? I think so....Rodgers officially leaves Favre's shadow this season.NOTE: I say this as a completely unbiased football fan.

Couple of things.1-Rodgers is playing phenomenally right now, and if he keeps it up, it's going to be tough for a team to beat him. However, the Eagles and Falcons aren't great at pass defense (14th and 22nd in pass defense, respectively in 2010). The Jets and Steelers (if the Packers get there) are better (6th & 12th, respectively).2-You cite the Packers "new-found running game." Is this the same running game that rushed for 84 whole yards in a game where they were up by 21+ points for the entire 2nd half? They had a good run game against the Eagles, but it was not even close to being good against the Falcons. One good game doesn't make a dangerous running game.3- You cite "Each of the remaining playoff teams have QBs with a penchant for turning the ball over." What exactly is a "penchant for turning the ball over?" Roethlisberger had 5 INT this year (in 12 games, pro-rated over 16 games, it equals 7), Rodgers had 11 (in 15 games, pro-rated over 16 games, it equals 12), Sanchez had 13, and Cutler had 16 (in 15 games,pro-rated over 16 games, it equals 17). So, of the remaining 4 QBs, Rodgers is substantially better at not turning the ball over then Cutler, and only slightly better than Sanchez, but he is substantially worse than Roethlisberger.4-Both the Steelers and Jets defenses are just as good, if not better, than the Packers defense. While the Pack may have a defensive advantage when they play the Bears, they will not have that edge in the SB. And, if you want to use the "momentum" argument when it comes to the D's, the Steelers allowed 160 total yards on Saturday, and the Jets have contained Peyton Manning and Tom Brady so far. I'd bet they have just as much, if not more, momentum as the Packers have.Maybe next time, before you issue premature "apologies," you actually look at the whole picture and think about what you're posting, um-kay?

1. Both of the GB wins have been on the road IN THE PLAYOFFS. I'd point to that before I start questioning their opposition's regular season ranking.2. New found running game is not the same as "dangerous running game". I never said it was dangerous. But thanks.3. Sanchez and Cutler have a history of being turnover machines. Roethlisberger, not as much as those two. That's why I said "some more than others". However, Roethlisberger does has a knack for holding onto the ball too long which is why he's sacked A LOT. INTs aren't the only form of turnover.Clearly the Packers went into the playoffs as an underdog (see 6th seed). I'm making a somewhat bold prediction based on what I've seen. You don't agree, fine. You made your points and I countered. No need for the douchey comments, "UM-KAY"?

 

[doowain]

you wanna crown their ###, then go ahead and crown em

Well played

 

[Go deep]

I have to admit, even as a fan who has found himself rooting for Atlanta....watching Aaron Rodgers absolutely dismantle the Falcons IN ATLANTA Saturday was a thing of beauty. We already knew Aaron Rodgers was top shelf, but there is absolutely no one playing better right now. Considering the options at WR (imagine if Finley was healthy, gah) and the new found running game, the offense looks absolutely unstoppable. The other half of the equation....which is what I think makes them the favorite, is their defense. Each of the remaining playoff teams have QBs with a penchant for turning the ball over (some more than others). With two shutdown corners and an impressive pass rush, we're likely to see a major turnover differential in favor of GB in next week's NFC Championship game (hello Cutler) and in the Super Bowl. Aaron Rodgers/Clay Matthews Co-Super Bowl MVPs? I think so....Rodgers officially leaves Favre's shadow this season.NOTE: I say this as a completely unbiased football fan.

Couple of things.1-Rodgers is playing phenomenally right now, and if he keeps it up, it's going to be tough for a team to beat him. However, the Eagles and Falcons aren't great at pass defense (14th and 22nd in pass defense, respectively in 2010). The Jets and Steelers (if the Packers get there) are better (6th & 12th, respectively).2-You cite the Packers "new-found running game." Is this the same running game that rushed for 84 whole yards in a game where they were up by 21+ points for the entire 2nd half? They had a good run game against the Eagles, but it was not even close to being good against the Falcons. One good game doesn't make a dangerous running game.3- You cite "Each of the remaining playoff teams have QBs with a penchant for turning the ball over." What exactly is a "penchant for turning the ball over?" Roethlisberger had 5 INT this year (in 12 games, pro-rated over 16 games, it equals 7), Rodgers had 11 (in 15 games, pro-rated over 16 games, it equals 12), Sanchez had 13, and Cutler had 16 (in 15 games,pro-rated over 16 games, it equals 17). So, of the remaining 4 QBs, Rodgers is substantially better at not turning the ball over then Cutler, and only slightly better than Sanchez, but he is substantially worse than Roethlisberger.4-Both the Steelers and Jets defenses are just as good, if not better, than the Packers defense. While the Pack may have a defensive advantage when they play the Bears, they will not have that edge in the SB. And, if you want to use the "momentum" argument when it comes to the D's, the Steelers allowed 160 total yards on Saturday, and the Jets have contained Peyton Manning and Tom Brady so far. I'd bet they have just as much, if not more, momentum as the Packers have.Maybe next time, before you issue premature "apologies," you actually look at the whole picture and think about what you're posting, um-kay?

2. Doesnt it make it harder to run when you are up by 21 points and the defense knows you are running? Plus, the Falcons are a tough team against the run, especially at home.3. Big Ben fumbled the ball 7 times...in 12 games. Rodgers fumbled 4 times in 15 games. So i wouldnt say Big Ben is significantly better at not turning the ball over.4. The Packers allowed 64 less points than the Jets this season, i would say that is better.

 

[Tom Servo]

Appropos of nothing (perhaps) but these are supposed to be the current odds to win the SB of those left per MGM Grand:

Steelers 8:5

Packers & Jets 2:1

Bears 14:5

 

[plyka]

I have to admit, even as a fan who has found himself rooting for Atlanta....watching Aaron Rodgers absolutely dismantle the Falcons IN ATLANTA Saturday was a thing of beauty. We already knew Aaron Rodgers was top shelf, but there is absolutely no one playing better right now. Considering the options at WR (imagine if Finley was healthy, gah) and the new found running game, the offense looks absolutely unstoppable. The other half of the equation....which is what I think makes them the favorite, is their defense. Each of the remaining playoff teams have QBs with a penchant for turning the ball over (some more than others). With two shutdown corners and an impressive pass rush, we're likely to see a major turnover differential in favor of GB in next week's NFC Championship game (hello Cutler) and in the Super Bowl. Aaron Rodgers/Clay Matthews Co-Super Bowl MVPs? I think so....Rodgers officially leaves Favre's shadow this season.NOTE: I say this as a completely unbiased football fan.

Hopefully the Steelers dont make it though, and not because i think they can beat the Packers. Im not sure i can watch the Refs hand the Steeelers another game. It just ruins an otherwise great sport.

This may be the first time i've agreed wtih you! I've NEVER thought that any sport was "fixed" or anything and I still don't think that football is fixed. But at least for that one game, the Steelers vs Seahawks superbowl, I am completely sure that it was fixed or at least "altered" in fairness in some way. I don't think it was just horrid mistakes and coincidence, but definite bias.

 

[Black&Gold]

I have to admit, even as a fan who has found himself rooting for Atlanta....watching Aaron Rodgers absolutely dismantle the Falcons IN ATLANTA Saturday was a thing of beauty. We already knew Aaron Rodgers was top shelf, but there is absolutely no one playing better right now. Considering the options at WR (imagine if Finley was healthy, gah) and the new found running game, the offense looks absolutely unstoppable. The other half of the equation....which is what I think makes them the favorite, is their defense. Each of the remaining playoff teams have QBs with a penchant for turning the ball over (some more than others). With two shutdown corners and an impressive pass rush, we're likely to see a major turnover differential in favor of GB in next week's NFC Championship game (hello Cutler) and in the Super Bowl. Aaron Rodgers/Clay Matthews Co-Super Bowl MVPs? I think so....Rodgers officially leaves Favre's shadow this season.NOTE: I say this as a completely unbiased football fan.

Hopefully the Steelers dont make it though, and not because i think they can beat the Packers. Im not sure i can watch the Refs hand the Steeelers another game. It just ruins an otherwise great sport.

This may be the first time i've agreed wtih you! I've NEVER thought that any sport was "fixed" or anything and I still don't think that football is fixed. But at least for that one game, the Steelers vs Seahawks superbowl, I am completely sure that it was fixed or at least "altered" in fairness in some way. I don't think it was just horrid mistakes and coincidence, but definite bias.

You guys are funny. If you've watched any Steeler games this year, you would know that the NFL definately doesn't want Roethlisberger hoisting the Lombardi trophy this year. The Oakland game this year was the most one-sided officiated game I've ever seen.I listened to Shannon Sharpe cry around this week about the refs missing a holding call on the last Steeler TD. There are missed holding calls on virtually every play. Blame the refs if you want.....envy is a very powerful thing.

 

[IHEARTFF]

Here's my quick assessment.

GB is the best team left in the field now that NE is out. Chi might be able to run a bit on them, and home field and snow gives them a chance to slow down GB. The GB pass defense should be able to generated some sacks and maybe turnovers. The Packers should have enough firepower to squeeze by 23-17.

NYJ defense would have a pretty good shot at shutting down GB as they held them to 9 points in the regular season. However, the Steelers are the best at stopping the run and can shut down the Jets offense. Pitt offense is more capable with a good run/pass balance. They'll take the Jets down, who just played their "super bowl". Pitt wins 19-10.

In a variance fest, you never know what is going to happen, but GB is probably about 2 points better than Pittsburgh on avg. This game might be a higher scoring one than the conf championships. Rodgers gets respect that he already has long deserved. GB wins 27-24.

 

[Go deep]

I have to admit, even as a fan who has found himself rooting for Atlanta....watching Aaron Rodgers absolutely dismantle the Falcons IN ATLANTA Saturday was a thing of beauty. We already knew Aaron Rodgers was top shelf, but there is absolutely no one playing better right now. Considering the options at WR (imagine if Finley was healthy, gah) and the new found running game, the offense looks absolutely unstoppable. The other half of the equation....which is what I think makes them the favorite, is their defense. Each of the remaining playoff teams have QBs with a penchant for turning the ball over (some more than others). With two shutdown corners and an impressive pass rush, we're likely to see a major turnover differential in favor of GB in next week's NFC Championship game (hello Cutler) and in the Super Bowl. Aaron Rodgers/Clay Matthews Co-Super Bowl MVPs? I think so....Rodgers officially leaves Favre's shadow this season.NOTE: I say this as a completely unbiased football fan.

Hopefully the Steelers dont make it though, and not because i think they can beat the Packers. Im not sure i can watch the Refs hand the Steeelers another game. It just ruins an otherwise great sport.

This may be the first time i've agreed wtih you! I've NEVER thought that any sport was "fixed" or anything and I still don't think that football is fixed. But at least for that one game, the Steelers vs Seahawks superbowl, I am completely sure that it was fixed or at least "altered" in fairness in some way. I don't think it was just horrid mistakes and coincidence, but definite bias.

I actually defended the Steelers after the Seahawks game. I definitely thought the calls went in their favor, but i just wrote it off as a coincidence. I still dont think the NFL is fixed, but i am 100% sure there is/was something fishy with the referees in the Ravens game Saturday.

 

[Godsbrother]

This may be the first time i've agreed wtih you! I've NEVER thought that any sport was "fixed" or anything and I still don't think that football is fixed. But at least for that one game, the Steelers vs Seahawks superbowl, I am completely sure that it was fixed or at least "altered" in fairness in some way.

So in this grand conspiracy theory of yours did the referees decide this themselves or were they instructed by the league to let the Steelers win? And if it was the league that decided to hand the Steelers the victory was it decided by all of the owners or just some of the owners?

 

[doowain]

This may be the first time i've agreed wtih you! I've NEVER thought that any sport was "fixed" or anything and I still don't think that football is fixed. But at least for that one game, the Steelers vs Seahawks superbowl, I am completely sure that it was fixed or at least "altered" in fairness in some way.

So in this grand conspiracy theory of yours did the referees decide this themselves or were they instructed by the league to let the Steelers win? And if it was the league that decided to hand the Steelers the victory was it decided by all of the owners or just some of the owners?

Let's not get off topic fellas.

 

[Bayhawks]

I have to admit, even as a fan who has found himself rooting for Atlanta....watching Aaron Rodgers absolutely dismantle the Falcons IN ATLANTA Saturday was a thing of beauty. We already knew Aaron Rodgers was top shelf, but there is absolutely no one playing better right now. Considering the options at WR (imagine if Finley was healthy, gah) and the new found running game, the offense looks absolutely unstoppable.

The other half of the equation....which is what I think makes them the favorite, is their defense. Each of the remaining playoff teams have QBs with a penchant for turning the ball over (some more than others). With two shutdown corners and an impressive pass rush, we're likely to see a major turnover differential in favor of GB in next week's NFC Championship game (hello Cutler) and in the Super Bowl. Aaron Rodgers/Clay Matthews Co-Super Bowl MVPs? I think so....

Rodgers officially leaves Favre's shadow this season.

NOTE: I say this as a completely unbiased football fan.

Couple of things.1-Rodgers is playing phenomenally right now, and if he keeps it up, it's going to be tough for a team to beat him. However, the Eagles and Falcons aren't great at pass defense (14th and 22nd in pass defense, respectively in 2010). The Jets and Steelers (if the Packers get there) are better (6th & 12th, respectively).

2-You cite the Packers "new-found running game." Is this the same running game that rushed for 84 whole yards in a game where they were up by 21+ points for the entire 2nd half? They had a good run game against the Eagles, but it was not even close to being good against the Falcons. One good game doesn't make a dangerous running game.

3- You cite "Each of the remaining playoff teams have QBs with a penchant for turning the ball over." What exactly is a "penchant for turning the ball over?" Roethlisberger had 5 INT this year (in 12 games, pro-rated over 16 games, it equals 7), Rodgers had 11 (in 15 games, pro-rated over 16 games, it equals 12), Sanchez had 13, and Cutler had 16 (in 15 games,pro-rated over 16 games, it equals 17). So, of the remaining 4 QBs, Rodgers is substantially better at not turning the ball over then Cutler, and only slightly better than Sanchez, but he is substantially worse than Roethlisberger.

4-Both the Steelers and Jets defenses are just as good, if not better, than the Packers defense. While the Pack may have a defensive advantage when they play the Bears, they will not have that edge in the SB. And, if you want to use the "momentum" argument when it comes to the D's, the Steelers allowed 160 total yards on Saturday, and the Jets have contained Peyton Manning and Tom Brady so far. I'd bet they have just as much, if not more, momentum as the Packers have.

Maybe next time, before you issue premature "apologies," you actually look at the whole picture and think about what you're posting, um-kay?

2. Doesnt it make it harder to run when you are up by 21 points and the defense knows you are running? Plus, the Falcons are a tough team against the run, especially at home.I'm not sure if you are aware of this or not, but when a team is up big in the 2nd half, they will usually try to run, in order to keep the clock going, thereby helping them hold on to the lead and, you know, win. A team with a "new-found running attack" would be able to run the ball in that situation to increase their likelihood of victory. BTW-the Jets and Steelers are pretty good against the run, too, FYI.

3. Big Ben fumbled the ball 7 times...in 12 games. Rodgers fumbled 4 times in 15 games. So i wouldnt say Big Ben is significantly better at not turning the ball over.

Ben LOST 3 fumbles, and Rodgers LOST 1 fumble. Ben had 8 TO in 12 games, Rodgers had 12 in 15 games. Ben was better. If you choose not to use the word significantly, so be it, but the OP said that all the other playoff QBs were prone to turning the ball over, and Rodgers turns the ball over more than Roethlisberger, and just as often as Sanchez.

4. The Packers allowed 64 less points than the Jets this season, i would say that is better.

The Jets allowed 282 yards less than the Packers, I would say that is better, so it depends on what stat you're using. But, I said that "Both the Steelers and Jets defenses are just as good, if not better, than the Packers defense." I would think that the Steelers giving up fewer points and yards would be better, and the Jets allowing 4 more points a game, while allowing 17 fewer yards a game would constitute just as good, so I stand by my statement. Not withstanding the point that I was refuting the OP's premise that the Packers defense made them the favorite to win the SB. How can the Packers defense make them the favorite if their defense is balanced out by 1 potential SB opponent, and inferior to the other?

 

[CrossEyed]

This may be the first time i've agreed wtih you! I've NEVER thought that any sport was "fixed" or anything and I still don't think that football is fixed. But at least for that one game, the Steelers vs Seahawks superbowl, I am completely sure that it was fixed or at least "altered" in fairness in some way.

So in this grand conspiracy theory of yours did the referees decide this themselves or were they instructed by the league to let the Steelers win? And if it was the league that decided to hand the Steelers the victory was it decided by all of the owners or just some of the owners?

Why even acknowledge the crazies around here?

 

[Godsbrother]

I actually defended the Steelers after the Seahawks game. I definitely thought the calls went in their favor, but i just wrote it off as a coincidence. I still dont think the NFL is fixed, but i am 100% sure there is/was something fishy with the referees in the Ravens game Saturday.

So how do you explain the fact the Steelers were penalized more times than the Ravens, the blown call on the kickoff that caused the Steelers to burn a challenge on the very first play of the game, the roughing call on Ward when both he & Reed were going at it mutually, the blow to the head to Roethlisberger on the fumble, giving the Ravens a free timeout on a play they were not permitted to challenge, etc?Speaking of the fumble, if the refs wanted the Steelers to win they could have easily ruled it an incomplete pass on the field and blown the whistle? At the very least it would have caused the Ravens to use a challenge and forced them to go on offense to score the TD.I guess you ignore all of that because it doesn't fit in with your conspiracy theories...

 

[Godsbrother]

This may be the first time i've agreed wtih you! I've NEVER thought that any sport was "fixed" or anything and I still don't think that football is fixed. But at least for that one game, the Steelers vs Seahawks superbowl, I am completely sure that it was fixed or at least "altered" in fairness in some way.

So in this grand conspiracy theory of yours did the referees decide this themselves or were they instructed by the league to let the Steelers win? And if it was the league that decided to hand the Steelers the victory was it decided by all of the owners or just some of the owners?

Why even acknowledge the crazies around here?

I know, I know. I expect the whining every time the Steelers win but when it gets to the games being fixed they have gone too far...

 

[Bayhawks]

1. Both of the GB wins have been on the road IN THE PLAYOFFS. I'd point to that before I start questioning their opposition's regular season ranking.

1. What's your point? Do you think the Eagles & Falcons stop blitzing and playing their normal defense at home? Their rankings are based on 8 home and 8 road games, so they are what they are. And their pass defenses ARE NOT as good as the Jets or Steelers

2. New found running game is not the same as "dangerous running game". I never said it was dangerous. But thanks.

2. Oh, okay, I got it. So when you were using the phrase "new found running game" as a reason that the Packers were the favorite to win the SB, you didn't mean "dangerous" or "good" running game. I see-because a "new found running game" that is ineffective definitely makes a team the favorite to win the SB

3. Sanchez and Cutler have a history of being turnover machines. Roethlisberger, not as much as those two. That's why I said "some more than others". However, Roethlisberger does has a knack for holding onto the ball too long which is why he's sacked A LOT. INTs aren't the only form of turnover.

3. Cutler does tend to turnover the ball, but Rodgers isn't much better than Sanchez at protecting the ball, and Roethlisberger is better at it than Rodgers is. BTW-a sack isn't a TO, but if it were, Roethlisberger gets sacked about 2.9 times a game, and Rodgers gets sacked about 2.5.

Clearly the Packers went into the playoffs as an underdog (see 6th seed). I'm making a somewhat bold prediction based on what I've seen. You don't agree, fine. You made your points and I countered. No need for the douchey comments, "UM-KAY"?

Just offering you some advice. As evidenced by this post, you didn't take it . Maybe you check your stats, facts, and info before you post. itsatip

 

[Evilgrin 72]

This may be the first time i've agreed wtih you! I've NEVER thought that any sport was "fixed" or anything and I still don't think that football is fixed. But at least for that one game, the Steelers vs Seahawks superbowl, I am completely sure that it was fixed or at least "altered" in fairness in some way.

So in this grand conspiracy theory of yours did the referees decide this themselves or were they instructed by the league to let the Steelers win? And if it was the league that decided to hand the Steelers the victory was it decided by all of the owners or just some of the owners?

Why even acknowledge the crazies around here?

I know, I know. I expect the whining every time the Steelers win but when it gets to the games being fixed they have gone too far...

Most of them do it just to get a rise out of us. I had the hardest time resisting for years, but recently, it amuses me where it used to aggravate me. They've gone to the same well too many times with me, and it lost its effectiveness.

 

[Sinrman]

Green Bay's running game (or mostly lackthereof) will be squashed by Pitt or NYJ (whoever ends up in the SB). Rodgers has done quite well this year having to

be one-dimensional, but I feel the Steelers or Jets will force him to throw over and over and I'm not sure even he can overcome their exotic blitzes.

Personally, I'd like to see GB there, rather than Chicago, who just seems kinda BLAH to me and Cutler is a whiner that irks me. I would rather see the Jets in

the SB because I would like to personally see Tomlinson win a SB before he retires and because I'm tired of seeing the Steelers in the SB.

 

[Ice Cream Man]

I don't understand why people are saying GB is a hot team, or they've found their offensive groove, or they are surprising some people.

Despite being 10-6, this is a team that hadn't lost a game all season by more than 4 points. Every coach in the league knows they don't want to face this team.

They dominated CHI both times they've played them [i'm still scratching my head how they lost their first meeting 20-17], so I fully anticipate them reaching the Superbowl.

I'm not a GB fan but I've felt they were the best team this year.

 

[gandalas]

3. Cutler does tend to turnover the ball, but Rodgers isn't much better than Sanchez at protecting the ball, and Roethlisberger is better at it than Rodgers is. BTW-a sack isn't a TO, but if it were, Roethlisberger gets sacked about 2.9 times a game, and Rodgers gets sacked about 2.5.Just offering you some advice. As evidenced by this post, you didn't take it . Maybe you check your stats, facts, and info before you post. itsatip

Just to play devils advocate here, Roethlesberger was sacked 32 times on 389 passing attempts, or 8.23%. Rodgers was sacked 31 times on 475 attempts, or 6.53%. That is a fairly big difference....

 

[Go deep]

This may be the first time i've agreed wtih you! I've NEVER thought that any sport was "fixed" or anything and I still don't think that football is fixed. But at least for that one game, the Steelers vs Seahawks superbowl, I am completely sure that it was fixed or at least "altered" in fairness in some way.

So in this grand conspiracy theory of yours did the referees decide this themselves or were they instructed by the league to let the Steelers win? And if it was the league that decided to hand the Steelers the victory was it decided by all of the owners or just some of the owners?

Why even acknowledge the crazies around here?

I know, I know. I expect the whining every time the Steelers win but when it gets to the games being fixed they have gone too far...

Most of them do it just to get a rise out of us. I had the hardest time resisting for years, but recently, it amuses me where it used to aggravate me. They've gone to the same well too many times with me, and it lost its effectiveness.

Im not trying to get a rise, and im not trying to rain on Steelers fans parade. As a Bills fan i would gladly take a AFC championship birth no matter how i got there. Im sure some here are doing it for a rise, but isnt it possible that some people(especially those who are not fans of either team) honestly think the Refs might have cost the Ravens the game? Why cant i post what i thought really happened without it being to get a rise or being a "hater"?

 

[Go deep]

Green Bay's running game (or mostly lackthereof) will be squashed by Pitt or NYJ (whoever ends up in the SB). Rodgers has done quite well this year having tobe one-dimensional, but I feel the Steelers or Jets will force him to throw over and over and I'm not sure even he can overcome their exotic blitzes.Personally, I'd like to see GB there, rather than Chicago, who just seems kinda BLAH to me and Cutler is a whiner that irks me. I would rather see the Jets inthe SB because I would like to personally see Tomlinson win a SB before he retires and because I'm tired of seeing the Steelers in the SB.

I agree that the Packers will have a hard time running against either the Steelers or the Jets. However, i think the Jets and Steelers will have at least as equallly a hard of a time running against the Packers. So it will come down to the passing game, which the Packers have a big advantage over the Steelers and a HUGE advantage over the Jets.

 

[doowain]

1. Both of the GB wins have been on the road IN THE PLAYOFFS. I'd point to that before I start questioning their opposition's regular season ranking.

1. What's your point? Do you think the Eagles & Falcons stop blitzing and playing their normal defense at home? Their rankings are based on 8 home and 8 road games, so they are what they are. And their pass defenses ARE NOT as good as the Jets or Steelers

2. New found running game is not the same as "dangerous running game". I never said it was dangerous. But thanks.

2. Oh, okay, I got it. So when you were using the phrase "new found running game" as a reason that the Packers were the favorite to win the SB, you didn't mean "dangerous" or "good" running game. I see-because a "new found running game" that is ineffective definitely makes a team the favorite to win the SB

3. Sanchez and Cutler have a history of being turnover machines. Roethlisberger, not as much as those two. That's why I said "some more than others". However, Roethlisberger does has a knack for holding onto the ball too long which is why he's sacked A LOT. INTs aren't the only form of turnover.

3. Cutler does tend to turnover the ball, but Rodgers isn't much better than Sanchez at protecting the ball, and Roethlisberger is better at it than Rodgers is. BTW-a sack isn't a TO, but if it were, Roethlisberger gets sacked about 2.9 times a game, and Rodgers gets sacked about 2.5.

Clearly the Packers went into the playoffs as an underdog (see 6th seed). I'm making a somewhat bold prediction based on what I've seen. You don't agree, fine. You made your points and I countered. No need for the douchey comments, "UM-KAY"?

Just offering you some advice. As evidenced by this post, you didn't take it . Maybe you check your stats, facts, and info before you post. itsatip

Do sacks often lead to fumbles? Hmmm..... Roethlisberger was sacked 32 times and lost 3 fumbles in 12 games. For a team that rushes the passer so well and can play man coverage on the outside....that's a TO waiting to happen.Man, I didn't think I'd have to spell out how any semblance of a running game should take pressure off the passing game. It's Football 101.You seem to be taking all of this a bit personally.....and you are adamantly defending the Steelers. The picture is becoming clear....

 

[Ditkaless Wonders]

I would have loved to see a healthy Packer Team against a healthy Pittsburgh team. The Packers have unquestionably lost more impact players by total number, but Pitts loses in the critical unit of the O-line have been very significant.

The Packers have come through a tough road recently with Giants, Bears, Eagles, and Falcons. They have found at least the threat of a running game which has also reinvigorated their slant game. With Cullen Jenkins back they have some d-line rotation and should be improved against the run and the pass. I like their chances this week and against the AFC champ should they get so far, but realistically I have to agree with the oddsmakers, the Packers are not yet the favorites, but they have a good chance.

As for the Bears, well lets just say that I do not yet believe.

As for the Jets, I think they have to hide their Q.B., and while defense and running may win championships having to hide one's Q.B. does not bode well.

All four teams deserve kudos and if anything I have posted upsets a fan of a particular team just blow it off, I am a fan, not a nuetral prognasticator as some like to posture. I am definately biased.

 

[Godsbrother]

Im not trying to get a rise, and im not trying to rain on Steelers fans parade. As a Bills fan i would gladly take a AFC championship birth no matter how i got there. Im sure some here are doing it for a rise, but isnt it possible that some people(especially those who are not fans of either team) honestly think the Refs might have cost the Ravens the game? Why cant i post what i thought really happened without it being to get a rise or being a "hater"?

Go ahead and post whatever you want but as I pointed out the Steelers were victimized by penalties and questionable calls /no calls last week too. If the officials wanted the Steelers to win then why hang it on a 3rd and 19 fift eight yard pass, completed with the ball balanced on the WR's head? Then you went on to say that the Steelers/Seahawks game was fixed so I am curious who you feel is behind the conspiracy and what magical powers do they possess?

 

[Godsbrother]

Do sacks often lead to fumbles? Hmmm..... Roethlisberger was sacked 32 times and lost 3 fumbles in 12 games. For a team that rushes the passer so well and can play man coverage on the outside....that's a TO waiting to happen.Man, I didn't think I'd have to spell out how any semblance of a running game should take pressure off the passing game. It's Football 101.

The Packers had less than 100 yards rushing last week and averaged 3.0 ypc. James Starks has had exactly one good game in his career. The Steelers, Jets and Bears all have pretty good defenses against the run. I am not getting where you think GB's running game is going to be the difference.You want to give the Lombardi to the Packers today, the rest of us just want to watch the games play out.

 

[doowain]

Do sacks often lead to fumbles? Hmmm..... Roethlisberger was sacked 32 times and lost 3 fumbles in 12 games. For a team that rushes the passer so well and can play man coverage on the outside....that's a TO waiting to happen.Man, I didn't think I'd have to spell out how any semblance of a running game should take pressure off the passing game. It's Football 101.

The Packers had less than 100 yards rushing last week and averaged 3.0 ypc. James Starks has had exactly one good game in his career. The Steelers, Jets and Bears all have pretty good defenses against the run. I am not getting where you think GB's running game is going to be the difference.You want to give the Lombardi to the Packers today, the rest of us just want to watch the games play out.

Why is it that I don't want to watch the games play out? I'm predicting (and hoping) that the Packers win the SB. Sorry you don't share my sentiments.I'm not saying their running game will be the difference, but it's certainly better than when Brandon Jackson was carrying the load. THAT is why it's "better" than it has been all season....IMO of course. And it'll keep the Packers from having to be so one dimensional....LIKE THEY HAVE ALL SEASON. It seems that everyone just wants to nitpick wording and project what they THINK I meant onto those words. At no point did I say that their running game was setting the world on fire or that it would be the reason they win out. Is it part of the equation that I think makes the GB offense suddenly unstoppable? Sure. But, the larger reason is the depth and level of talent they have at WR. You can say that their opponents will take the pass away, but how do you expect to do that? Jennings, Driver, Jones, Nelson.....you can't cover them all.....and if you try, I hope you can get pressure on Rodgers playing nickel all game.

 

[The Westin]

Do sacks often lead to fumbles? Hmmm..... Roethlisberger was sacked 32 times and lost 3 fumbles in 12 games. For a team that rushes the passer so well and can play man coverage on the outside....that's a TO waiting to happen.Man, I didn't think I'd have to spell out how any semblance of a running game should take pressure off the passing game. It's Football 101.You seem to be taking all of this a bit personally.....and you are adamantly defending the Steelers. The picture is becoming clear....

Ya he gets personal in the Brady/Roethlisberger thread too because I don't agree with him. For a guy who claims to "not be a Steelers fan"...he sure does get emotional over it.Anyways I see Pittsburgh as the favorite with Green Bay a close second. Chicago - might have a shot against Green Bay, mostly due to their defense's ability to slow down Green Bay's offense. These two teams always seem to play it tight. NYJ - Both have quality defenses, but the Steelers is better. I just think Roethlisberger is so much better than Sanchez....and that's going to be the difference in that game. If it does end up being Green Bay-Pittsburgh it's a toss up to me. Rodgers seems to be lights out in domes recently but who knows against that Pittsburgh defense. I don't think it'll be like the last game where Roethlisberger threw a TD in the closing seconds in a high scoring matchup. Ugh...tough call.

 

[shortbow]

Either the Steelers or Jets should be favorites over the Packers if they make it. GB has a one dimensional offense. Stop the pass, you stop GB. Both of those teams have defenses capable of shutting them down.

And the Jets dont have a completely god awful passing game ? All the defenses left in the playoffs can stop the run.

 

[Fensalk]

The Packers flaw is that their record when leading at halftime this year was 8-5. 5 times their defense blew 4th quarter leads. That's an awful lot. I just think somewhere down the road this stat will come back to bite them. I think its in Chicago, but I wouldn't be shocked to see Ben lead the Steelers to a 4th quarter win on the Packer defense, either.

 

[Godsbrother]

Do sacks often lead to fumbles? Hmmm..... Roethlisberger was sacked 32 times and lost 3 fumbles in 12 games. For a team that rushes the passer so well and can play man coverage on the outside....that's a TO waiting to happen.Man, I didn't think I'd have to spell out how any semblance of a running game should take pressure off the passing game. It's Football 101.

The Packers had less than 100 yards rushing last week and averaged 3.0 ypc. James Starks has had exactly one good game in his career. The Steelers, Jets and Bears all have pretty good defenses against the run. I am not getting where you think GB's running game is going to be the difference.You want to give the Lombardi to the Packers today, the rest of us just want to watch the games play out.

Why is it that I don't want to watch the games play out? I'm predicting (and hoping) that the Packers win the SB. Sorry you don't agree.

I just think it is premature to predict a winner of a game before you even know the participants of the game. But what the heck: Sorry rest of NFL teams, the Detroit Lions will be the Super Bowl XCIX champs. How is THAT for prognostication?

 

[The Westin]

Do sacks often lead to fumbles? Hmmm..... Roethlisberger was sacked 32 times and lost 3 fumbles in 12 games. For a team that rushes the passer so well and can play man coverage on the outside....that's a TO waiting to happen.Man, I didn't think I'd have to spell out how any semblance of a running game should take pressure off the passing game. It's Football 101.

The Packers had less than 100 yards rushing last week and averaged 3.0 ypc. James Starks has had exactly one good game in his career. The Steelers, Jets and Bears all have pretty good defenses against the run. I am not getting where you think GB's running game is going to be the difference.You want to give the Lombardi to the Packers today, the rest of us just want to watch the games play out.

Why is it that I don't want to watch the games play out? I'm predicting (and hoping) that the Packers win the SB. Sorry you don't agree.

I just think it is premature to predict a winner of a game before you even know the participants of the game. But what the heck: Sorry rest of NFL teams, the Detroit Lions will be the Super Bowl XCIX champs. How is THAT for prognostication?

Man, I've never really had much interaction with Steelers fans on a message board since my team's in the NFC but you guys are quite a sensitive bunch, huh?The guy made a prediction. It's a football message board. Calm down.

 

[Ice Cream Man]

The Packers flaw is that their record when leading at halftime this year was 8-5. 5 times their defense blew 4th quarter leads. That's an awful lot. I just think somewhere down the road this stat will come back to bite them. I think its in Chicago, but I wouldn't be shocked to see Ben lead the Steelers to a 4th quarter win on the Packer defense, either.

Except this wasn't the case -- they've only had four 4th quarter leads that they've lost. Also, any of these "leads" at half time that they lost, the leads were never bigger than a touchdown. Moreover, their defense seems hardly at fault:

In CHI, Jones fumbled the ball on GB's 46 setting up the winning kick.

In WAS, Rogers threw a pick that set up the winning kick.

In DET, GB had a 3 point lead, in a game that finished 7-3.

In NE, their lead was 3 points and they were playing with their backup QB.

This idea that GB's defense hasn't played well this year, or somehow collapses under pressure, is a figment of one's imagination.

 

[DesmondBishop]

Agreed. I personal hate these kinds of post (No offense intended), but then I am also not the "in your face, bragadocious" type fan. Don't get me wrong, in my own living room, I may have shouted "F-YOU Matty Ice" (Said VERY sarcastically) when Tramon pick sixed him. But before and during a game I am the very "anything can happen" type fan definitely not one to claim victory before a game has even kicked off. I guess I kind of do believe in bad luck or jinxing your team with that type of attitude.

 

[Godsbrother]

I just think it is premature to predict a winner of a game before you even know the participants of the game.

But what the heck:

Sorry rest of NFL teams, the Detroit Lions will be the Super Bowl XCIX champs. How is THAT for prognostication?

Man, I've never really had much interaction with Steelers fans on a message board since my team's in the NFC but you guys are quite a sensitive bunch, huh?The guy made a prediction. It's a football message board. Calm down.

It was supposed to be a joke

 

[doowain]

I just think it is premature to predict a winner of a game before you even know the participants of the game.

But what the heck:

Sorry rest of NFL teams, the Detroit Lions will be the Super Bowl XCIX champs. How is THAT for prognostication?

Man, I've never really had much interaction with Steelers fans on a message board since my team's in the NFC but you guys are quite a sensitive bunch, huh?The guy made a prediction. It's a football message board. Calm down.

It was supposed to be a joke

I don't think he was referring to that part of your post.Every year thousands upon thousands of people place bets on who will win the Super Bowl......IN AUGUST. I'm choosing 1 of 4. I don't see why that's so taboo.