NFL Gameday Predictions: Conference Championships Edition

3:00 EST FOX In one of the dumbest scheduling moves by the NFL in recent history, the Eagles and Cardinals take the field in the first of two championship games at precisely 3:00 EST, or noon Arizona time. The NFL should leave the game times a flex options so that a team like Arizona wouldn't have to play a championship game at noon when there is another game in Pittsburgh that is starting three hours later. Hobbled headliners Brian Westbrook of Philadelphia and Anquan Boldin of Arizona are both expected to play, though their effectiveness will be in question. The story of this game will be the ability of quarterbacks to overcome the opposing defense. Philly's blitz-happy scheme will give Arizona's receivers single-coverage down the field, so if Warner has the time and composure to find them, it could be a big day for the Arizona passing attack. Even though Philly's run defense is stout, it will be important for Arizona to attempt to establish the run early so they do not become ... (link)