WATERCOOLER CHAT: PLAYOFF WEEKEND
BASKETBALL
In the NBA, it was a battle of two potential sleeper teams to appear in the Finals: The Phoenix Suns and the Atlanta Hawks. Both teams are playing well this season, and it was time to see how two up-tempo teams would fare against each other. It was a back-and-forth game that would come down to the wire. And with just 3 seconds left, and down by two, Atlanta’s Jamal Crawford dribbled up to the 3-point line and pulled up for a jumper. BANG — GOT IT! And Atlanta sneaks past the Suns in a thrilling ending. Atlanta 102, Phoenix 101.
FOOTBALL
And in the NFL, Saturday you can catch two amazing playoff games. First up, it’s the red-hot Arizona Cardinals heading to New Orleans to face another high-powered offense in the Saints. Arizona’s offense looked unstoppable against Green Bay, and 38-year old Kurt Warner carried himself like a 25-year old quarterback in his prime. Their defense, on the other hand, was abysmal. Thus, if the Saints are able to get a few stops, their own offense should take care of business and win the game handily. They appear to be on a Super Bowl mission this year, and the Cardinals shouldn’t stand in their way.
Next up, it will be a prime time showdown between the Baltimore Ravens and the Indianapolis Colts. This game seems like it will be all Indianapolis, given that they are at home, and seem to be a truly top-notch team this year. However, you can’t EVER underestimate Baltimore’s stingy defense. They can make stops when they need too, and their offense can catch fire. Last week, Baltimore’s running game pulverized the Patriots defense. The Ravens will need running backs Ray Rice and Willis McGahee to keep the chains moving and keep Peyton Manning and Indy’s offense off the field. It’s really their only chance. This one should be close, but the Colts will probably edge them out.
