Saturday, January 20, 2007

NFC CHAMPIONSHIP GAME ........... CHICAGO BEARS- NEW ORLEANS SAINTS


Wonderful year for the Saints, regardless of what happens from now on in. This is the first Championship game in their 40 year history and they are the first team to reach a title game, after losing 13 or more games the previous season. Add Hurricane Katrina into the equation and it is a remarkable achievement.


However, it is a long way from the comfort of the Superdome, to the exposed environs of Soldier Field. Conditions are set to be very tough tomorrow, the temperature will definitely be sub zero and with the wind blowing off Lake Michigan, it will feel much colder and snow is also very possible.


Everyone seems to have doubts regarding Bears quarterback Rex Grossman and it is easy to understand why. Despite putting up career high stats of 21 completions from 38 attempts and 282 yards, in the overtime win over Seattle, he was still sacked 3 times, fumbled and threw an interception. Every play is an adventure, with him at the helm.


However, given the conditions, this is likely to be a lowish scoring battle, with the ball mostly on the ground. This may suit both teams, at least to begin with, Chicago having struggled to establish a pass rush since losing Tommie Harris and the Saints having great success with the run, at Philly last week.


As I write, it is -6 degrees at the stadium, which feels like -11 with the wind chill. If the snow comes, it will be a little warmer tomorrow, but will hardly make the conditions any easier.


With the line currently set at 42.5 points, it has to be the "under" for me.


4 points "under" 42.5 points Bears-Saints 1.91 + vegas line // 1.93 Pinnacle.
Good Luck.

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