Predicting the outcome of the entire 2019 NFL Playoffs

AFC Divisional: Baltimore Ravens (4) at New England Patriots (2)

Yes, I’m picking the Ravens to upset the Patriots at home. It may seem asinine, but that’s what I’m predicting. This is the NFL Playoffs, and crazy things happen every year. But I digress…

I know the Patriots managed to secure the No. 2 seed. I know they have yet to lose at Gillette Stadium this season. What I also know is that they’ve had plenty of games this year during which they’ve looked less than spectacular on both sides of the ball. What I’m trying to say is that they are absolutely beatable.

What’s more is the Ravens have their elite defense to lean on. And as the saying goes: defense wins championships. In this one, I’d expect Baltimore to lean heavily on the ground game, minimizing the opportunities for Bill Belichick to take advantage of Jackson’s inexperience and tendency to make mistakes under pressure.

Like many of the games we’ve already discussed, this should come down to the wire. However, a final stand by the Baltimore defense proves too much for Tom Brady, who comes up just short. The Patriots are bounced from the playoffs early, while the Ravens start to gain some traction as a legitimate Super Bowl contender.

Prediction: Ravens defeat Patriots