January 13, 2019\\
California, USA\\
Home Teams Hold Court
Playoff atmosphere always adds a bit more to the home-field advantage in any sport and it was certainly on display in the Divisional round this weekend. Kansas City, Los Angeles, Foxborough and New Orleans showed up to support their teams and it showed in the results.Chiefs Break Colts, 31-13
In a freezing Arrowhead Stadium, KC jumps out early and never look back.
Rams Run Cowboys Out of LA, 30-22
The Rams return the LA Coliseum to NFL Playoff Glory.
Cowboys vs Rams Recap via NFL.comPats Power Down Chargers, 41-28
New England lore is alive and well.
Saints Comeback Against Champs, 20-14
In the tightest game of the round, the Saints put it together before time runs out in the Dome.Eagles vs Saints Recap via NFL.com
Next Weekend: Conference Championship Matchups
This NFL Playoffs tournament is down to the Final Four. Next Sunday's matchups will decide the best of each conference, the winners to face off in Atlanta, on February 03 at Super Bowl LIII.
You can also catch the NFC vs the AFC next Sunday in the Pro Bowl on ESPN.
NFL Playoff coverage continues next Sunday at 12:05 PST on Fox,
You can also catch the NFC vs the AFC next Sunday in the Pro Bowl on ESPN.
NFL Playoff coverage continues next Sunday at 12:05 PST on Fox,
NFC\ Saints will host the Rams in The Dome
While all the games started as close ones, it was only the Saints and Eagles that didn't turn into a total blowout before it was all over. Every other team would win by at least 2 scores, the closest one being 8 points in the Rams victory over the Cowboys. I'm not entirely sure if that's an advantage for anyone here.
New Orleans gave up the lead early against the defending champions and failed to score in the 1st quarter. By all means, with the magic of Nick Foles, Philadelphia could have easily turned that into a victory but, the Saints returned the goose-egg before the half while adding 10 of their own to head into the locker room with a very interesting scoreline.
The Defense would shut out the Champs the rest of the way and add a few big Michael Thomas receptions, including one for a touchdown in the 3rd to eventually secure the W.
One could argue that a close game like this can take a little more out of you, giving the advantage to the Rams next Sunday but, it could also be said that the added adversity could serve as a momentum booster. It's a call back to that old adage of "rest vs rust". Which one do you believe in?
Although Dallas would come back and make things interesting, it was all but over in the 4th. So, maybe the Rams are a little more confident heading into the Dome. This one feels like more of a toss up, to me. I will go out on a limb, though and make a pick.
Of all the places in the NFL to have that home cooking, I would say New Orleans is one of the best places to be. The Rams put together a solid win at home but, I don't believe that's going to carry over in the Bayou. When Michael Thomas puts together a line like he did today, the Saints are only a tougher challenge at home. I'm picking the Saints to win next Sunday.
Video Highlights\ Cowboys vs Rams
Video Highlights\ Eagles vs Saints
AFC\ Patriots Return to Arrowhead to face the Chiefs
Last week, I made a timid pick for the Patriots to win it all. After today's performance, I'm still going with this, however, it was also the Kansas City Chiefs that were giving me pause about my choice and wouldn't you know it, that is the AFC Championship matchup we have on our hands.
Kansas City was victorious and fairly handily against Indianapolis in front of a Playoff success starved Arrowhead Stadium. This was the first actual game that I sat down and watched this new KC squad with their new face and QB, Patrick Mahomes. I have to say that, I do now see what all the hype is about.
That said, I also saw a few mistakes that, let's face it, the Patriots will capitalize on much more efficiently than the Colts did. I did like the way that the young slinger bounced back to make some big plays, though. Even if this isn't the year, I would not be surprised to see more success as he gains more NFL experience.
Factoring in the home-field advantage and newfound hunger in #ChiefsKingdom, I still feel that the "dynasty effect" of the Patriots and their profound #DoYourJob work ethic that is still very strong will be enough for Tom Brady and company to get it done in Kansas City next weekend.
Video Highlights\ Colts vs Chiefs
Video Highlights\ Chargers vs Patriots
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Cheers,
Josh\ #84Culture
www.artscience84.com
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