NFL Playoff previews: AFC Wild Card game 1

Saturday, January 8 - AFC Wild Card Game 1

New York Jets (11-5) at Indianapolis Colts (10-6)

By the numbers:

NY Jets @ Indianapolis

Team	W	L	PF	PA	Dif	Pyth
NY Jets	11	5	367	304	63	.610
Indianapolis	10	6	435	388	47	.567

The Jets finished with a better record than the Colts while playing a tougher schedule. The Jets were, by the numbers, a significantly better defensive team. They have a better winning percentage and a better pythagorean winning percentage.

They also have Mark Sanchez playing QB.

The Colts have won their last four, going into the playoffs on a high note after a midseason struggle, while the Jets are only 2-2 over the last month.

Reason to pick the Jets:

They have a better defense and put together a better record against a tougher schedule.

Reason to pick the Colts:

Peyton Manning. Mark Sanchez. 'nuff said...

New York wins if:

They can score without asking Mark Sanchez to do much.

Indianapolis wins if:

Peyton Manning plays like traditional regular season Peyton Manning, not like traditional "throw-the-ball-to-the-other-team-in-the-playoffs" Peyton Manning, the defense plays moderately well and Pierre Garcon actually catches balls that hit him in the hands.

My Pick:

Indianapolis