NFL Playoffs, Round 1

So, I just got back from having a nice steak and a couple of beers with my Uncle Charlie. What does that have to do with the NFL playoffs, you ask? Absolutely nothing, of course --- which is exactly what LaDainian Tomlinson will be doing after this weekend ... except for maybe whining about the fact that his team has made yet another early exit from the playoffs. But more on that later.

Before I jump into my predictions for the games this weekend, I just wanted to mention a pretty good column that Bob Ryan wrote about the current state of Boston sports. If you've got the time, I recommend giving it a read. After growing up experiencing the heartaches of the local teams (with the exception of the Larry Bird led Celtics), it truly is amazing to sit back and reflect on just how good we have it right now.

Now, on to the picks (home team in bold). Please note that all lines are as of the time of this writing.

Washington Redskins (+3.5) over Seattle Seahawks 4:30pm, Saturday
Something tells me that the 'Skins are going to make some noise in the playoffs. They've dealt with tragedy this year. They've got a resurgent QB, and Joe Gibbs has some experience in this department. Also, as much as I like Matt Hasselbeck and Deion Branch, I just don't think that Seattle has it in them.

Pittsburgh Steelers (+2.5) over Jacksonville Jaguars 8:00pm, Saturday
I know, I know --- Jacksonville is the team du jour right now, and nobody wants to meet them in the playoffs ... blah, blah, blah. Listen, Pittsburgh is not going to lose to them again this year. The Steelers have guys wearing championship rings, and know how to win big playoff games --- unless they're playing the Pats (sorry, I couldn't resist). The most entertainment this game will have to offer for Jacksonville fans will be watching the coach who bears a striking resemblance to a certain actor, walking the sidelines. That's right, I'm talking about Jack Del Rio and Ben Falcone.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-3) over New York Giants 1:00pm, Sunday
I'd love to pick the Giants here, but I can't. They really impressed me with the game that they put up against the Pats, but I think they might be in for a bit of an emotional let-down. Also, I think that Earnest Graham is going to run all over them --- and I'm not saying that just because he was a stud on my fantasy football champion team this year. Okay, maybe just a little.

Tennessee Titans (+10) over San Diego Chargers
The Chargers cannot win big games. Norv Turner cannot win big games. Until I see otherwise, I'm always betting against these two entities --- regardless of who's playing QB for their opponent. Plus, I'm REALLY looking forward to watching LDT's meltdown after this game.

Those are my picks, and I'm sticking to them.