And then there were four... It seems like just the other day we were starting the NFL/NCAA football season and I was typing out all of my hopes and dreams for the Michigan State Spartans and the Detroit Lions. While Sparty basically imploded in their season not even making it to a bowl game, The Lions came within an inch of claiming a spot in the playoffs.
We rallied through the wildcard games and this past week we had what would be considered the "elite eight" if we were talking about college basketball. It was a bit bizarre only having four games to watch across the two days this past weekend. Likewise when Monday night rolled around and there was no game on, I was a bit beside myself.
Part of me wonders if anyone saw these four teams in the semi-finals? The Eagles for sure, they have been great pretty much all season. There has been little doubt that they would find themselves in this position come this time of year.
Kansas City as well. I mean they have Mahomes right? Sure, they have been a bit wobbly over the past couple of years, but do you ever really want to bet against Mahomes? Probably not now while he is still in his prime. He's definitely a more sure bet than Brady.
Then we have the Bengals. There has been a lot of hype around this team. Ohio has been rallying for them for quite some time now. Joe Burrow has been pretty dynamic all season. Aside from that last (or second to last) regular season game that didn't get finished, fantasy owners were feeling pretty good about having Burrow as their starting quarterback.
Finally, the 49ers. They are the one team that I probably wouldn't have guessed would be here. All that aside, I have been reading that these four teams are probably the most evenly matched semifinals we have seen in quite some time.
Minnesota fans are probably still reeling after The Vikings got knocked out. When they were "on", I have no doubt they could have held their own in this group. Just look at the majority of their season. Unfortunately, they gave up some big games when it really counted. It does make you wonder just how far they could have went had they made it in.
Same thing with the Lions? Did they have the momentum and tools to push them this far if Seattle could have just lost that final regular season game?
My one slice of happiness from all of this is the fact that the Cowboys didn't make it into the playoffs. I really can't stand them.
Where does that leave us going into this weekend?
The Niners go up against the Eagles and the Bengals take on the Chiefs. Man, that's a tough call. Personally, I have to go with the 49ers. Purdy has been impressive and basically came out of left field to lead them to where they are today. I have to respect that. I think in the grand scheme of things, I'd love to see San Francisco win it all. I've always been a Joe Montana fan, so I guess you could say "I left my heart in San Francisco".
Philly is tough though. Like I said, they have been the team to beat all season. I don't know if Purdy has what it takes to get past them. I think I read Philly leads the league in sacks. Purdy might be spending a good deal of his time on his back. It should be a good game either way.
Bengals vs. Chiefs? I have to go with the Bengals. We don't know if the ankle injury from last week is still going to give Mahomes trouble. If I had to pick Henne over Burrow, I'm going to go with Burrow every time. If Mahomes can play? He's a bit beat up and not quite what he was in his "earlier" years. I'm still going with Burrow on this one. I think the Bengals are hungrier for this win.
That's my call, do with it what you will.
Bengals versus 49ers in the Superbowl
What do you think?
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I have to agree with you on 49ers and Bengals. But I would like to see Burrow win it all. That last year's loss vs Rams was heartbreaking.
49ers chances depend on Deebo's health status - he's such a big part of their offense and if he won't be 100% they will struggle.
As a Lions fan, I was pretty happy with how the Rams did last season. Stafford deserved that ring after all he put up with here. If he never wins another one I am fine with that. It was actually kind of nice to see them implode this season. Better draft pick for us next year! I think the Bengals have been building towards this for a while, but I think you lose some the magic when you aren't that tough luck team anymore. Just look at the Cubs.
We are one game away from my dream scenario of Eagles vs. Chiefs for the Superbowl.
I'd have to cheer for the Eagles if that is the case. I don't know if I will put any money on the big game, but I will probably try to get in on a couple of square boards.
Chance of either Chiefs or Eagles in Super Bowl is pretty high.
Everyone loves an underdog story so I'm hoping Purdy can go all the way. Be keen to see if the 49ers end up trading Jimmy once his healthy
It's hard to say. I've seen teams before where the starter gets hurt, the backup does amazing, and then they just go back to the starter. I'm guessing it has to do with money. Isn't that always the case. You win a superbowl though and that might be a different conversation! :)
Yeah, we all remember what happened to Nick Foles
Haha, yeah.