For the gambling degenerates, here are my NFL conference championship picks. To note, the helmets indicate who I think will win the game, not cover the spread. At the end of the picks, I'll note a few teams that I like based on the spread.
Patri*ts (-3) at Broncos: The Broncos have a better non-quarterback roster and an outstanding defense, but the disparity in quarterbacks here is enormous. Football is a team sport. Obviously this is not tennis, where one individual plays another. However, all time, in games in which Brady faced off against Manning, the Patri*ts are 11-5. And most of that was when Manning was actually good. A week ago, the Broncos narrowly squeaked by a Steelers team missing Antonio Brown, LeVeon Bell, and DeAngelo Williams. This is a weak "1 seed" ripe for the picking.
Cardinals at Panthers (-3): To me, the Cardinals feel like a more complete team, and the matchup I love in their favor is their deep passing attack against the Panthers' slow-footed safeties. However, with this game being played around freezing temperatures, I love the way the Panthers are constructed as a run-heavy, defensive-minded football team. Even at 16-1, Carolina feels incredibly underrated by many. I like them to win it all.
Picks against the spread: Patri*ts (-3).
Last week, straight up: 1-3
Season, straight up: 167-97
Last week, ATS: 0-2
Season, ATS: 46-34-2
Follow Jimmy on Twitter: @JimmyKempski
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