JJ Watts plays with the cast off his left hand today and Brain Cushing who has been playing great acknowledges that the defense is playing at it's highest level since he's been there. Even Clowney is a possibility to play. The Chiefs are favored here because of their well publicized 10 game winning streak. However, upon closer look The Chiefs only beat 2 of these teams with over .500 winning percentages. They beat the Steelers without Big Ben and Denver when Peyton Manning went out. The Hedgie knows all too well than to trust the Chiefs against the spread. This will be a low scoring dog fight where the home team wins.
Texans 20 Chiefs 16
Texans +3.5 3 stars
Under 40 1 star
In the Hedgie's opinion Bengal's QB McCarron will have no problem on the big stage. He's been there before in National Championship games. He looked like a veteran vs the Bronos just a few weeks ago. And he's great at protecting the ball. The Steelers have issues at RB. Deangelo Williams has been ruled out and although they have serviceable runners to fill in The Hedgie thinks pass blocking will be an issue. Big Ben threw 36 passes in their last conest and is likely to throw more this time. Pass protection will be an issue and without Williams there is no experience in the backfield. This Bengals Team has more experience now and will prevail at home.
Bengals 24 Steelers 20
Bengals +3 3 stars