We’re about an hour away from kickoff of what promises to be an entertaining game. Anyone sick of the cross-promotional ads yet? Yes, the Lone Ranger does look that terrible. Anyway, back to the task at hand. The Machine’s had a tough time figuring out this one. The Niners are the hotter team. Fast, punishing defense and an offense that no one has figured out (yet: see Year 2 of the Wildcat). Ginger King questioned the decision to start C-Kap…but obviously that’s paid off (Alex Smith will look great in a Bills uniform next year). There’s really no way to pick against the Niners, unless….
They’re playing a team of destiny, and right now, the Ravens have the look of a team of destiny. They’re almost reminiscent of the Giants of last year. That overtime win at Denver? Improbable. Near double-digit underdogs to the Patriots? No problem. The Ravens have been counted out of every game this post-season, and not only have the risen up to the challenge, but have done so in convincing fashion. Joe Flacco is no Trent Dilfer (a sigh of relief to the greater-Baltimore area). Combine that with solid play on both sides of the ball (and some deer antler spray) and the Ravens have the post-season magic. They’re 4.5 underdogs in the Super Bro™…exactly where they want to be.
This really does have the makings of a close game. In that respect, point goes to Baltimore, as David Akers has been anything but consistent for the Niners this year…missing 13 field goals with an extremely poor 69% field goal conversion.
Although lady luck is on the Ravens side, The Machine thinks that, at the end of the day, C-Kap and crew will do just enough to bring home the Lombardi trophy. Sorry Baltimore, but sometimes destiny isn’t enough (see 18-1).
Plus, The Machine is a younger brother, and nothing gives us more pleasure than sending a big FU to your big brother…and what better way to do that than to beat him in the Super Bro™. Jim Harbaugh clearly will do anything to win…so look for a trick play or two (fake punt, onside kick). The Machine would love a never-before seen pistol option fleaflicker. We’ll call it the Reloader™
If you want a safe bet…bet the under. The Machine doesn’t see this being a high-scoring affair. If you really want a good bet, tease the Ravens and the Under. Money in the bank.
Ok, time to drink and eat a ridiculous amount of pepperoni, cheese, and chili. Enjoy the Game (and if Beyonce lip syncs at Halftime everything will be ruined).
Niners 24, Ravens 20