I think whoever comes out of the AFC Championship game will be the Super Bowl Champs. Reasons:
- The Ravens proved a few years back that a great defense and an average quarterback can with the title, but the average quarteback cannot throw interceptions... something Rex has been guilty of too many times. Arizona had the Bears by the throat on MNF and choked - they won't get those breaks in the post-season.
- I'd love to see the Saints win it all, but I'm not sure they're there yet. Reggie Bush is going to be a stud for years to come, but his rookie-ness showed up late last week and that didn't sit well with Sean Payton. If the rest of the team plays up to par, I think they can beat Da Bears, but remember they'll be playing in Chicago (frigid cold), so it could spell trouble for the Dome-Home Saints. Still - my sentimental pick to win it all - it would be a great story!
I think Indianapolis finally figured out how to win in the post-season which makes them extremely tough, but New England proved once again yesterday that they can still play good, solid team football. Despite turnovers, they found a way to get it done. Indy's defense, arguably their achille's heel entering the post-season, has stepped up and delivered. If they continue to play at that level, they will be the Champs IMHO.
Lastly, I served beer at The Murph yesterday - OK, technically it's Qualcomm Stadium but it'll always be The Murph to me. Anyway, after the game I went out to the remaining tailgaters and found resounding support for the Saints (Drew Brees is still a fan favoorite here in San Dog), despite the loss they suffered themselves - so all you Saints fans have that contingent behind you as well. So, go Saints, but beware of the Colts.
If I had to answer Justin's question, here's what I'd pick.
NFC Championship Game: Bears over Saints in a nail-biter.
AFC Championship Game: Colts over Patriots.
Super Bowl: Colts over Bears.