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In an NFL scheduling oddity, all four divisional playoff games are rematches from the regular season. For the most part, I don't think they give much insight into what will happen this weekend. All but one occurred between eight and twelve weeks ago. The only more recent matchup was the Eagles-Giants game on December 7th. However, the Giants are a much different team, in that they're healthier and the loss of Plaxico Burress isn't as fresh.
 

Picks appear in bold.

Baltimore (+3) at Tennessee
Last week, we saw the speed of the Ravens' defense capitalize on the weak arm of Chad Pennington. Obviously, they won't have that advantage this weekend. However, the Titans' offensive philosophy is much more predictable, which I think will play into the hands of Baltimore defensive coordinator Rex Ryan. In addition, the loss of center Kevin Mawae will be a huge loss for a Tennessee offensive line that will be trying to figure out the best front seven in football. On the other side, an e-mailer asked me how the Ravens will score on a very good Titans' defensive squad. Believe it or not, I think they're going to put the ball in the hands of Joe Flacco at the beginning. They'll try to open up the running lanes by using the short passing game, and obviously, I think it's going to work.

Arizona at Carolina (-9.5)
There are a few reasons why I think this game will be over by the third quarter. 1. The Cardinals were 0-5 this year on the east coast this season and were outscored by an overwhelming 202-102 in those games. 2.  The "very iffy" status of Anquan Boldin means that he'll be hampered at best, and probably won't provide much help against the Panthers. This is a huge problem for a team that runs the ball as an afterthought. 3. Arizona was able to stop Atlanta's running game last week, but will be going up against a better running back combination and a much more balanced offense overall. I see Jake Dehomme and Steve Smith having big days.

Philadelphia at New York Giants (-4)
This was by far the most difficult game of the weekend for me to pick. Don't get me wrong, the Giants are the better team, but the games between these two always seem to come down to the final possession. I've said it many times and I'll say it again: with a healthy Donovan McNabb and Brian Westbrook, the Eagles can beat anyone at anytime. Also, New York's biggest concern is trying to find Plaxico Burress' replacement as the key figure in Eli Manning's passing game. So far, we haven't really seen anyone step into that role, but I think a combination of Amani Toomer and tight end, Kevin Boss, will fit the bill. In the end though, I think there will be too much Brandon Jacobs and Derrick Ward.

San Diego at Pittsburgh (-6)
People have been touting Darren Sproles all week and even asked me if the Chargers would be better off trading LaDainian Tomlinson for a draft pick "while he was still worth something." Remember, there's a huge difference between being a complimentary back and being "the guy." Moreover, there's a bigger difference between running against the Colts and running against a very physical Steelers' defense. We'll see that in practice this weekend as I think the diminutive San Diego back will struggle against a physical Steelers' defense. Offensively, Pittsburgh is as healthy as they've been all year, but their primary concern will be to keep Ben Roethlisberger from making mistakes. I think they'll run the ball effectively with Willie Parker and Mewelde Moore and keep San Diego's offense off the field.

Last Week: 2-2
Season: 135-120-5