AFC/NFC CHAMPIONSHIP PREDICTIONS

GREEN BAY(-4) AT CHICAGO
Before the season started I took the Packers to win the NFC and meet the Ravens in the Super Bowl. Obviously only half of my prediction will come true. Jay Cuntler will throw at least two costly picks and the people's champion Aaron Rodgers will have another huge game. I know the Bears are the home team and they are tough to beat at Soldier Field but I don't see Brian Urlacher and Julius Peppers being huge factors today and the Packers will roll up 400 yards of total offense. Devin Hester could change this prediction with one punt return but right now I have a good feeling the Packers will roll in this one.

Prediction: Packers 27 Bears 17

NEW YORK JETS(+4) AT PITTSBURGH
I know the Pittsburgh Steelers are America's Team (sorry Dallas, you lost your title) but who honestly can root for them with Ben Rapelisberger as their leader? The Jets come in with road victories over New England and Indy so I don't think they will be intimidated by Heinz Field. With all the bravado Rex Ryan brings to this game you can't just ignore what makes the Jets successful: their running game and most importantly their defense. Today I think the Jets are going to have a hard time running the ball with Shonn Greene and Tomlinson toughing out 1-3 yard gains against a strong Jet's run defense. If the Jets are going to win they are going to need a huge game from Mark Sanchez. As much as I want the Jets to win because I can't stand the Steelers I just can't take the Jets over Pittsburgh. But I do like the Jets to beat the spread in a close one.

Prediction: Steelers 21 Jets 19