The divisional round of the NFL playoffs gave us plenty of exciting action. Fans can only imagine what the Conference Championships have in store as they fight for a trip to Super Bowl. Both games are scheduled for Sunday, and they happen to be the second meetings for all teams involved. If the previous meetings is any indication of what's to come, fans will be in for another exciting match.
The New Orleans Saints ended up giving the LA Rams their first loss, after Bress and company demolished the Rams defense and putting up 35 points in the first half, leading to a 45-35 victory. The game was a serious wake up call for Jared Goff and company. However, witnessing the Rams massive victory over the Dallas Cowboys, shows they are facing a revamped team.
In the AFC, the New England Patriots and KC Chiefs ended up combining for over 83 points during their first meeting in October. These two matches could end up being shootouts if the regular season is a sign of what's to come.
White records double-digit receptions again
While New England considers James White a running back, the Patriots love to use him as a wide receiver since that is when he's the most dangerous on the field. White has the power to turn a simple pass from Brady and turn it into a massive gain. White finished the season bringing in 15 of 17 passes thrown to him. This hints at all the scoring that could happen as the Patriots take on the Kansas City Chiefs. White always seems to elevate his game this time of year in the postseason.
Williams sees 25+ carries second week in a row
The Chiefs have managed to move on from Kareem Hunt and found success with Damien Williams. Williams ended up finding the end zone six times during the last four games of the season. During the divisional round against the Colts, Williams ended up rushing for 129 yards and scored a touchdown. This shows he has the strength and power to be the star running back on offense.
Ingram held to less than 40 rushing yards
Ingram is just one half of the Saints dangerous duo in the backfield. Kamara has delivered big time for the Saints since he was drafted in 2017. Ingram continues to show he is a workhorse and hard to tackle. Both of these players can make a case for being the top running back for New Orleans. Ingram struggled in the ground game last weekend, so it will be interesting to see how the Rams work to contain him. If Ingram is used more, the Rams still have the defensive power to keep him in check.
Gurley, Anderson combine for 200+ rushing yards
Near the end of the regular season, Todd Gurley went down with a minor knee injury. Los Angeles didn't want to risk making the injury worse, so they called on C.J. Anderson, who killed in on the field, reaching the 100-yard rushing mark for three games in a row, including the win over Dallas. Los Angeles also has a powerful duo at running back.
Michel records another touchdown hat trick
Sony Michel has become a star running back, and has caused problems for offensives during the regular season. Michel ended up recording three rushing touchdowns against their big win over the LA Chargers. Michel also led the running backs with 24 carries and 129 rushing yards. He could have a repeat performance this week during the AFC Championship.
Goff tosses four touchdown passes
Last weekend, the Rams managed to score 30 points against the Dallas Cowboys, and Goff didn't even throw a single touchdown pass. Most of the credit belongs to the offensive line giving space for Gurley and Anderson to make their mark in the ground game. This matchup against the Saints will require Goff to throw a touchdown. Hopefully the offensive line can give Goff the room to make the necessary touchdown passes.