2016 NFL Divisional Playoff X-Factors: Saturday Edition
By Erik Lambert
The next round of the 2016 NFL division playoff is officially at hand. The Saturday edition of the games are set to kick off with two highly intriguing matchups between the Kansas City Chiefs and New England Patriots and the Green Bay Packers and Arizona Cardinals. The primary setup for each contest has been reviewed plenty, so it’s time to ask the question.
What or who are the x-factors that will decide the outcome of each contest? Here is the rundown for both matchups.
Chiefs @ Patriots: Can Chiefs defense contain Rob Gronkowski?
There is no question the Patriots offense has struggled of late, and part of the reason is they haven’t had All-Pro tight end Rob Gronkowski on the field. Word is he plans to give it a go at Foxborough, but he’ll be doing so in significant pain. Regardless, he remain a dangerous target for Tom Brady and one the Chiefs defense knows it can’t afford to ignore. They’ve played great football all season, but this is a veteran playoff experienced team and the defending world champions. Gronk is often the reason they win so many games. If he goes off, it could mean the difference.
Cardinals @ Packers: Can Packers keep Cardinals blitz at bay this time?
Aaron Rodgers had a good game in Washington, but bad memories are sure to surface as he prepares to take on the Arizona Cardinals. This team has given him nightmares dating back to his first ever playoff appearance in 2010. First they forced a fumble return for a touchdown that won the game. Then in their past meeting this season, they pummeled him for eight sacks and forced an interception and three fumbles in a 38-8 runaway. The Packers offensive line will be seeing that same aggressive defense again. If they can’t stop it, don’t expect Rodgers to be any different the second time.
It figures to be a fun, thrilling Saturday for the 2016 NFL divisional playoff action. Time will tell whether these X-factors play out as they could.