AT ISSUE
Jiggy about Jags
What: Just how hot are the Jacksonville Jaguars?
Background: The Jaguars entered the playoffs as the sexy pick to be a surprise team in the postseason. The Jaguars went 11-5 and won four of their final five games before surviving at Pittsburgh in the wild-card round with a 31-29 win. Many pundits believe the Jaguars are a special team. This is their chance to prove it. If they derail New England’s perfect season, then, yes, they are special.
Williamson’s take: Jacksonville is a fine team, but it isn’t New England good. No one is. The Jaguars are one of the top five teams in the NFL, but the Patriots are three wins away from being the best team in NFL history.
THE HOT SEAT
Romo on radar
Who: Dallas Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo
When: Sunday at Dallas against the New York Giants
Why: This is Romo’s first postseason game since last year’s disaster at Seattle, when he muffed a field-goal attempt as the holder in the final seconds, costing the Cowboys a wild-card game. All offseason, Romo had to live with that memory. And in the regular season, he showed he was over it with a fine showing. Still, Romo is under big pressure heading into the Cowboys’ first playoff game this season, against the underdog Giants. If Romo has a bad game and the Cowboys lose, he’ll be known as a playoff choker after only two NFL seasons as a starter. If he plays well and Dallas rolls, the mistake in Seattle will be forgiven.
ROOKIE WATCH
Gaga over Gonzo
Who: Indianapolis Colts receiver Anthony Gonzalez
When: Sunday at Indy against the San Diego Chargers
Why: He is one of the better rookies still playing. Gonzalez was the last player taken in the first round, and has made a nice impact for the Colts. The former Ohio State receiver is perfect for Indy’s multidimensional attack. He has taken over for Brandon Stokley, now in Denver. Gonzalez, who had 37 catches for 576 yards this season, has quickly gained the trust of QB Peyton Manning. With Marvin Harrison healthy, Gonzalez still should get plenty of chances vs. San Diego.
