Stay tuned to TJC for my not-so-expert prediction on the big game later next week.

AFC Championship

New York Jets @ Indianapolis Colts (-8)

Despite the 9-7 record, the Jets only lost by more than 8 points twice this year.  All of the numbers point to the Colts winning, but likely by less than a touchdown.  That’s not the way I see it though.  I see Peyton Manning punishing New York with a long tedious touchdown drive in the first quarter.  Playing from behind, Mark Sanchez will have to throw more and that will spell trouble for the Jets.  Besides the rookie Sanchez, the Jets don’t exactly boast the NFL’s best receivers.

New York might hang around, but look for the Colts to play mistake free while a costly turnover or two will make the game seem too long for New York fans.  In the end, Manning and the Colts will head to the Super Bowl with a double digit victory over the Jets.

TJC’s pick: Indianapolis (-8)

NFC Championship

Minnesota Vikings @ New Orleans  Saints (-3.5)

For some reason, I’ve heard nothing but love for the Vikings from most analysts on ESPN  Radio over the past week.  Once again, I don’t see it that way.

Yes, I think that Minnesota’s offensive attack is impressive, and the defense can be dominant at times, but with all of the weapons New Orleans’ head coach Sean Payton has at his disposal, I don’t think the Vikings can contain Drew Brees over the course of an entire football game.

In what could be a shootout, home field advantage will come into play.  Adrian Peterson hasn’t topped 100 yards rushing since mid-November, and his yards/carry has been on the decline, so either he’s nursing an injury or is just a little worn down.  Either way, it’s going to make Favre throw plenty.  That hasn’t been a problem most of the season, but this time around, I see the Saints winning the turnover battle and subsequently the game.

The all important question is will the Saints cover the 3.5 points.  Yes, yes they will.  Payton’s schemes will befuddle the Vikes and New Orleans will put up a handful of TDs as they advance toward a matchup with the Colts in a couple weeks.

TJC’s pick: New Orleans (-3.5)