Poor Indianapolis.

What a terrible end to their season. They were arguably the best team in the league through 90% of the season. Then San Diego proves they are mortal after all. Suddenly other teams have been given the key to the pantry, so to speak. They play less than stellar football the last few games of the season. They are dealt a horrific blow with the sudden suicide of coach Tony Dungy's son. They get their bye week, sit back to relax and regroup, and then come in and play uninspired football at the moment they need their abilities the most. At the end, just when it seemed there was a light at the end of the tunnel and they had a shot to tie the game and go to overtime, Vanderjagt, the most accurate kicker in the NFL, shanks one from a totally makeable distance. And with that, the season is over.

I guess in the AFC championship game, I've gotta root for Denver. Sure, they are a division rival for my Chargers, but I was also born in Denver, and if the Chargers aren't going to the dance, at least their neighbors can. Only one game left to set up the championship games; let's see if the Bears can resurrect the '85 shufflers to do some work. My prediction: Bears 28, Panthers 17.

On to Detroit...(Seattle vs. Denver)