Divisional Round: Ravens at Titans

Baltimore Ravens @ Tennessee Titans
Saturday January 10th, 4:30 PM
Favorite: Titans (-3)

Why the Ravens Will Win: Ed Reed and the Baltimore defense are other-worldly. They simply take over a game and win it all on their own. In the wild card game they were able to frustrate Miami and get them totally out of their element. Not only does the defense hold opponents to low point totals, they set up their offense in good field position and also score themselves. That is tough for opponents to overcome. The Ravens offense is nothing to write home about, but they are able to run the ball when it is needed most, especially late in the game with a lead. Punter Sam Koch is also a huge asset in the field position game.

Why the Titans Will Win: Tennessee is a lot like Miami but better. They run between the tackles better and pose more of a big play threat in the running game. On defense, Albert Haynesworth leads a great run stopping unit and they force turnovers as well. The Titans will be able to get a better pass rush on rookie Joe Flacco and force him into mistakes he didn't make last weekend.

Prediction: Every thing would seem to point to the Ravens, and that's why I will pick the Titans. They play very well at home and will get out to an early lead. That changes things a lot for Baltimore. I also think that Flacco will make one mistake that will set up a field goal or touchdown for the Titans. In the end, that will be the difference.

Titans 20, Ravens 16