Gridiron Guide: Take the Broncos in AFC playoff rematch
Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) steps back to throw during the first quarter of a preseason game against the St. Louis Rams. (Aug. 24, 2013) Credit: AP
RAVENS at BRONCOS,
8:30 p.m.
Broncos by 7 1/2; O/U: 48 1/2
TV: Ch. 4; Radio: WFAN
Coulda, shoulda, woulda. Life is filled with all sorts of second guesses and what ifs.
I'm sure it was a long offseason for the Denver Broncos, who came within a minute of a trip to the AFC championship game last season, but ultimately, lost to Baltimore, 38-35, in double overtime.
Reports came out that usually-friendly Peyton Manning was testy on his conference call this week to the out-of-town media when asked about last season's playoff game. "You," the Denver quarterback said, "just have to probably check some old clips for quotes."
Translation: "Let's shut up and play some football." Sounds great to me!
Recent money has poured in on the defending Super Bowl champ Ravens as the line dropped from 9 to 7 1/2 for underdog Baltimore. The Ravens, who lost eight starters from last season including linebacker Ray Lewis, were 6-9-1 against the spread (ATS) during the regular season. They did, however, snap a streak of eight straight cover losses against Manning in last season's playoff. The Broncos (10-6 ATS last year) should be geared up to pound the champs in Denver.
The pick: Broncos
Out East Show: Visit The Shamrock evergreen maze, Sannino Vineyard, Seven Ponds Orchard and the Warrior Ranch Foundation NewsdayTV's Doug Geed is heading 'Out East' to showcase the ultimate local spots you need to explore.
