NFL Conference Championship Gridiron Guide
Shaun Ellis of the New England Patriots celebrates after a sack against the Denver Broncos. (Jan. 14, 2012) Credit: Getty Images
49ers by 2 1/2; O/U: 42 -- TV: Ch. 5. Radio: WFAN (660)
I'll admit it. I've been a nonbeliever in the Giants lately. But I've finally bought into Big Blue. The 49ers are 13-3-1 against the spread, but I like the G-Men to cover AND win. The Giants are an improved team since their Week 10 meeting (won, 27-20, by San Fran). The Giants are healthier, playing better defense, rushing the passer well, and even running the ball more efficiently. Plus, Eli Manning has left no doubt that he is an ELIte quarterback. All that adds up to another magical run to the Super Bowl, a la four years ago. Tom Coughlin's "Road Warriors" (7-0 ATS in their last 7 playoff road games) win outright and advance to their fifth Super Bowl. Get ready for Indy!
THE PICK: Giants, 27-24
Patriots by 7; O/U: 50 1/2 -- TV: Ch. 2. Radio: WFAN (660)
High-powered offenses Green Bay and New Orleans are home. Can New England be next? Nope. Since a 24-20 loss to the Giants in Week 9, the Pats have outscored opponents by an average of 37.3-18.7. The Pats -- 6-1 in AFC title games; 4-1 with Tom Brady and 3-0 at home -- get revenge for a 33-14 home playoff loss suffered two Januarys ago. THE PICK: Patriots, 34-23STAFF PICKS
John Boell 123-132-9 (8-11 best bets)
Giants Patriots
Bob Glauber 129-126-9 (8-8-3)
Giants Patriots
Giants Ravens
Roderick Boone 128-127-9 (14-5)
49ers Patriots
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