NFL Conference Championship Previews

NFL Conference Championship Previews

We’re down to the final four. There was only one upset in the divisional round, as the Bills were dominated by the Bengals. I am a little disappointed in myself for picking Buffalo. I picked Cincinnati to win their matchup in the regular season, but I let the Damar Hamlin situation sway my opinion of the Bills too much. It’s a learning experience. Anyways, it’s time for the conference championship games. Here’s who I think makes the Super Bowl and why.

AFC:

Cincinnati Bengals @ Kansas City Chiefs:

As mentioned above, the Bengals crushed the Bills in the divisional round 27-10. Their depleted offensive line was a non-issue, as Cincinnati ran for 155 yards and adequately protected Joe Burrow. However, most of the credit for the win should go to defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, who constructed a brilliant gameplan to shut down Josh Allen and the Bills’ offense. It was mostly smooth sailing for the Chiefs in the divisional round, as they never trailed in a 27-20 win over the Jaguars. However, Patrick Mahomes suffered a high ankle sprain in the second quarter that limited his mobility in the second half. He will play through it, but he surely won’t be at 100%. The Bengals have beat the Chiefs three times in a row, including in this very same game a year ago. I expect Anarumo and Cincinnati’s defense to keep the Chiefs in check while Burrow, and the offense shouldn’t have much of a problem moving the ball on a middling Kansas City defense.

Prediction: Bengals 31, Chiefs 23

NFC:

San Francisco 49ers @ Philadelphia Eagles:

The Eagles cruised past the Giants 28-7 in the divisional round. The Niners had a tougher time, but they were able to hang on for a 19-12 win over the Cowboys in a defensive battle. Brock Purdy had his worst game since he became the starter, but Dak Prescott was worse. This should be a great game. The Eagles have a slightly more stacked roster and home field advantage, but the Niners have better coaching and more playoff experience. With that being said, I am going to take San Francisco to win. The Eagles have a creative offensive scheme, but I think 49ers defensive coordinator Demeco Ryans may be the best defensive coach in the league outside of Bill Belichick, so he should have some tricks up his sleeve to keep Philadelphia somewhat in check. On the other side, the Eagles have an extremely talented defense, but their scheme is not the most creative. The Niners have a great group of playmakers, and Kyle Shanahan is the most creative offensive play caller in the league. Both these teams are extremely talented, but I think the Niners will win the coaching and creativity battles.

Prediction: 49ers 26, Eagles 21