It's time to make your picks!!
Championship Sunday -
Jets vs Steelers - I'm picking the Jets 21 Steelers 16, mostly because everyone else is picking the Steelers. But, also b/c the Jets have the ability to change defenses and adapt. The Jets have the athletes to match up with the Steelers rather average receivers and running backs as well.
Also, Sanchez has some experience and may be ready to take the next step in this one. Very good receivers as well as skilled running backs. Also, Polamalu isn't 100% either, and that could be the difference in not making the big play late in the game.
Packers vs Bears - Have no clue on this one. While the Packers have showed a running game recently, the Bears are a very good defense against the run. Rodgers can escape the rush but Peppers is excellent pass rusher. Packers have very good receivers.
Bears QB can be erratic at times, but if Forte can run some, Cutler should be able to complete some passes. Cutler can also escape the pocket similar to Rodgers, but may not throw as well on the run as Rodgers does. Special teams can be huge difference here. Bears must find a way to neutralize Woodson on the blitz, and make Packers pay with a few big plays.
Both teams play outside in cold weather, but the field is said to be the worst in the league, so home field may play a part in familiarity, but this is their second game on this field in less than a month. Execution will be the key to the win. Will Cutler thow a pick or two?
In a shootout the Packers would have the edge, but I think it will be a similar game to the last one with low scores.
So after thinking about it, I pick the Bears 17 - Packers 10.