It's The Most Wonderful Time of Year

Yup, Divisional Weekend is finally upon us. Arguably the best weekend in the NFL. So without further adieu, let's preview these first two games.


New Orleans @ San Francisco +3.5

Saints Difference Maker: Darren Sproles

He's arguably been the best free agent acquisition this year, and his quick movements propel this offense with an offset running game and a great screen game. Without Sproles, Brees probably wouldn't have broken the passing record.


49ers Difference Maker: Michael Crabtree

Alex Smith is playing in his first playoff game Saturday, and nothing would help him more than getting Crab going. Crabtree always seems to step up in the spotlight, and this game will be no different.

Saints Statistical Difference Maker: 3rd down conversions
Saints are 1st in the NFL in 3rd down conversions at 57%
49ers are 30th in the NFL in 3rd down conversions at 29.4%


49ers Statistical Difference Maker: Takeaways 
49ers are 1st in the NFL in takeaways with 2.4 per game
Saints are 31st in the NFL in takeaways with 1.1 per game

Computer analysis PREDICTION: Saints 26-21

Final PREDICTION: Saints 27-23 

Betting Line Pick: Saints -3.5














Denver @ New England -14


Broncos Difference Maker: Von Miller 

This Broncos defense has long needed for a leader defensively ever since Brian Dawkins got injured, and Miller is a guy who needs to step up. The Broncos need Miller to create havoc in the backfield against Tom Brady.

Patriots Difference Maker: Kyle Arrington
Look, I could have taken anyone on the Patriots offense and explain why they'd be the difference maker. The truth is this defense lives on turnovers.Arrington led this team with 7 INT's. Tim Tebow's worst nightmare is turnovers, and that equals a recipe for success.

Broncos Statistical Difference Maker: Rushing Yards
Broncos are 1st in the NFL with 164.5 yards per game.
Patriots are 20th in the NFL with 110.3 yards per game.

Patriots Statistical Difference Maker: Passing Yards
Patriots are 2nd in the NFL with 317.8 yards per game. 
Broncos are 31st in the NFL with 152.1 yards per game.

Computer Analysis PREDICTION: Patriots 27-14

Final PREDICTION: Patriots 31- Broncos 20

Betting Line Pick: Broncos +14