NFL Conference Championship Predictions

Last week: 2-2
Playoffs: 4-4
Philadelphia at Arizona: Still hard to fathom that not only are the Cardinals in the NFC Championship game, but are actually hosting it. Arizona's defense has been stout in its two playoff victories over Atlanta and Carolina, shutting down the run and winning the turnover battle. The Eagles' defense shone in their defeat of the New York Giants, and Donovan McNabb was effective when needed. Brian Westbrook's health is a concern for Philadelphia. Anquan Boldin is scheduled to play for Arizona, but the Eagles must contain Larry Fitzgerald in order to win. Philadelphia 24, Arizona 20.

Baltimore at Pittsburgh: Even more than last weekend's Ravens-Titans matchup, this game is the most anticipated of the championship contests, rare for what should be a defensive battle. This has developed into the NFL's most intense rivalry. The Steelers own two close regular-season victories over Baltimore - can the Ravens do anything differently in this one? Willie Parker had a solid game for Pittsburgh in its win over San Diego, and the fact that the Steelers have a little more offense than Baltimore has been able to display should carry the day. Pittsburgh 17, Baltimore 13.

NFL Divisional Playoff Predictions

Last week: 2-2.
Baltimore at Tennessee: It's not often when people are anxious to see what would appear to be a defensive-oriented contest. The Ravens completely stifled Miami last week, but the Titans' running game is better. Tennessee won the regular-season meeting by a field goal. Joe Flacco will need to make a couple of plays for Baltimore to win. Baltimore 17, Tennessee 13.

Arizona at Carolina: The Panthers have received the least attention of the teams with the bye week. Not enough has been made about how much Jake Delhomme's return at quarterback has meant for Carolina. The Panthers have a good defense and running game, but Delhomme to Steve Smith is a big play combination. It's enough to hold off the Cardinals. Carolina 24, Arizona 20.

Philadelphia at NY Giants: The Eagles continue to be hot and have already won at The Meadowlands. As usual when divisional opponents meet in the playoffs, it's about the execution and not the scheme. Brandon Jacobs is back for the Giants, but Eli Manning and the passing game needs to come through. NY Giants 21, Philadelphia 13.

San Diego at Pittsburgh: Another rematch of a regular-season contest, won by the Steelers in the only 11-10 game in NFL history. The Chargers have been streaking, but no one has moved the ball against the stout Pittsburgh defense. Ben Roethlisberger has had two weeks to rest after his concussion, but if I'm Mike Tomlin I don't hesitate to use Byron Leftwich. Pittsburgh 20, San Diego 19.

NFL Wild Card Predictions

Atlanta at Arizona: The Cardinals have been average since their bye week (5-5) but good at home overall (6-2). Big stage for the Falcons and rookie quarterback Matt Ryan. If Arizona gets ahead Atlanta can't keep up. Arizona 27, Atlanta 17.

Indianapolis at San Diego: It's amazing that the Colts can be on a nine-game winning streak and be almost unnoticed. The Chargers surged late to win the AFC West, but Denver's tank job had a lot to do with it. Even if LaDainian Tomlinson was fully healthy Indianapolis is too much. Indianapolis 24, San Diego 20.

Baltimore at Miami: The worst-to-first Dolphins are one of the NFL's top stories. The Ravens join the Falcons with a rookie coach-quarterback combination, but also have a terrific defense. Ray Lewis and Ed Reed aren't afraid of a Wildcat. Baltimore 17, Miami 10.

Philadelphia at Minnesota: The Eagles have the title as The Team Nobody Wants To Play In The Playoffs, and I believe that team always loses. Philadelphia's whipping of Dallas in the regular-season finale was due to the home crowd and a Cowboys collapse. Minnesota's Adrian Peterson is the difference-maker. Minnesota 21, Philadelphia 16.