So the Seahawks didn't make it to the NFL's Final Four, but they'll be a factor in this thing for many years to come. With that said, four teams remain in the NFL playoffs, but there can only be two in the Super Bowl.
Let's start with this, how crazy that three of the four teams at this point were in this same position last year - San Francisco, Baltimore, and New England. Three teams have been in this spot before, but only one knows what it's like to get to Super Sunday.
We'll start with the NFC, since I think it's a much easier pick than the AFC. After Sunday's game is anyone really intimidated by the Falcons? Even at home? After giving up 21 straight 4th quarter points on your home turf, I don't think that strikes any fear in the 49ers' hearts. Especially, after San Francisco's offense just had a field-day against Green Bay. Yes, Green Bay has a terrible defense right now, but it's not like Atlanta has this defense that is physical or intimidates their opponents in anyway. Even on the road, I believe the 49ers have one of the easiest roads to the Super Bowl in the last decade.
Prediction: 49ers win by more than ten points
Out to the AFC now, where it's a little different story. I can see Tom Brady and the Patriots winning because they always win. At the same time though, can't you see the Ravens pulling off a win inspired by the retirement of Ray Lewis and the sudden amazing play of Joe Flacco. I'm not convinced Flacco is an elite quarterback, but winning this game will come down to his play. That's mostly because this is not going to be a low scoring game. Baltimore's defense is not the same as it's been in past years, and the Patriots defense is improved but not great.
I like the feel good story of Ray Lewis, but I don't think you can bet against Tom Brady and Bill Belichick. Gronkowski may be hurt, but Brady has been winning without him for most of the season. In reality, I think they needed him in last year's Super Bowl more than they do this year. They've figured out how to win without him.
The simple question is this: can you really see Joe Flacco beating Tom Brady? Flacco just beat Peyton Manning, but can he beat Brady? I don't think so.
Prediction: Patriots by four points
So that means a Patriots vs. 49ers Super Bowl. Many people I've talked to hate both these teams, but at this point, this is the best Super Bowl match up we could hope for.
We'll just see what happens on Sunday.
