NFL Conference championship game predictions

AFC
Pittsburgh at Denver: The Steelers slayed the playoffs' biggest dragon in Indianapolis last week, but are they ready for a game at another tough venue? The Broncos have been the league's overlooked team all season and coach Mike Shanahan seems driven to get back to the big game. Broncos 24-16.

NFC
Carolina at Seattle. People have looked all year for a reason to doubt the Seahawks and today might be it. The Panthers are experienced, tough and their defense is good enough to slow down Seattle, especially with Shaun Alexander less than 100 percent. Besides, one road team usually wins in this round. Panthers 26-20.

NFL Divisional Playoff Predictions

Last week: 3-1

AFC
New England at Denver: The Patriots were impressive last week over Jacksonville and appear to be hitting their stride. Are the Broncos ready to fold? Maybe not. Denver 24-21.

Pittsburgh at Indianapolis: Solid offense by the Steelers against Cincinnati, but they will need a better effort in this one. The Colts should be ready to play a real game. Indianapolis 28-20.

NFC
Washington at Seattle: The Redskins have been rolling, but the end is coming. The Seahawks will be able to score, and Washington's health is a concern. Seahawks 21-13.

Carolina at Chicago: The Panthers' offense has been inconsistent, although they ran over the Giants last week. Defense usually rules, which means the Bears. Bears 17-14.

NFL Wild-Card Predictions

AFC
Jacksonville at New England: The Patriots are gathering steam as the playoffs begin. The Jags' defense is tough, but Byron Leftwich is due to be rusty as he returns from injury.
New England 24-14.

Pittsburgh at Cincinnati: The Steelers are favored on the road and the Bengals are the popular pick to fall after losing their final two regular-season games. Pittsburgh won't let this become a shootout, which Cincinnati would like. Pittsburgh 17-13.

NFC
Washington at Tampa Bay: Don't always buy into the hot team theory, but it may work here for the Redskins. Mark Brunell won't make mistakes, but Chris Simms might.
Washington 23-17.

Carolina at NY Giants: Jake Delhomme and the Panthers are two seasons removed from the Super Bowl, but the defense and running game were better. Eli Manning will keep it together, and Tiki Barber comes up big again. NY Giants 20-13.

Rose Bowl Prediction

USC has the experience, but so did Florida State against Oklahoma in 2000. Games like this usually turn on something never talked about, like kickers and punters. Matt Leinart has a huge game: USC 30, Texas 27.