Playoff Predictions: Why the Patriots Will Win It All

       With wild card weekend coming to a close, its clear to the nation who the best four teams are. But what's not clear is the outcome of the super bowl, and who will follow the path to it. To me, the outcome isn't so hard to predict. The Patriots will win the 2015 super bowl. 

       The reasoning behind my prediction is due to one thing is particular; consistency. In the past 15 years, no other franchise in NFL history has had the success of the New England Patriots. In a large part, this is because of Bill Belichick. Another part is Tom Brady. But two people don't win a super bowl. So what does? A physical defense does. A sound running game to compliment the passing game does. A handful of talented wide outs and tight ends does. A great coaching staff also helps. The Patriots have it all, which is why they will win the super bowl. 

       The Patriots rank in the top 5 in points per game, and the top ten in pass yards per game. With a high powered offense, defenses will have a very tough time slowing down Brady and the offense, especially in Foxboro. With that high powered offense comes a defense that ranks 8th in points allowed (19.6), and 9th in rush yards allowed (104.3). With predominantly passing teams left in the AFC, the patriots will have to focus on dropping more men into coverage, with help over the top and a man on man situation on certain receivers. Belichick will have his hands full with the opposing Ravens team, as they have proved challenging in the playoffs before. With a tough defense that ranks in the top ten in rush yards per game, points per game, and yards per game, the Patriots will have to utilize the Ravens weak pass defense to their advantage. 

        After the Ravens, the Patriots will play a strong Broncos team at home. This will be their easiest playoff game, as the Denver offense will struggle to move the ball on the ground, and will be forced to throw long passes down the field. The Broncos defense will also struggle against the pass game, and will be stretched apart. This will cause them to be susceptible to the run game. With two strong backs, the Pats could really wear down the Denver defense. The final game will be the super bowl against Seattle. Playing in Arizona will provide a neutral location, so both teams will feel the pressure of not having a home field advantage. Although the Seahawks have the best defense, they are still vulnerable, and I expect Brady to come out ready to play. I also expect that Gronk will be a huge factor in the game, along with LaFell. The final score of the super bowl will be 24-21, Patriots.