Alright, I'm going to make my Colts-Jets prediction now and I'll wait later for my Vikings/Saints prediction.
First off, we need to get some statistics (regular season, playoff stats are based off 1 or 2 games and not accurate) out of the way. The Colts have the best quarterback in football (2nd in total yards, won MVP) yet have the worst rushing attack in the game. The Colts rushing yards ranks dead last (32nd) in the NFL. Not something a playoff caliber team should have. What does this mean? The Colts are a one dimensional football team, they rely on Peyton Manning and that's it. They have an average passing defense (14th) and a below average run defense (24th) which begs the question why does their defense get so much credit? The only bright spot are their pass rushers and the New York Jets will not be passing a whole lot. Now lets look at the New York Jets statistics. They have the best pass defense in football and an above average run defense (8th) which makes the #1 defense in football. The Jets also have the #1 running attack in the league yet a very poor passing offense (31st) which makes the Jets a one dimensional running team. Which is better you might ask? The obvious choice here is the New York Jets. The Colts will win the first half in most likelihood, but I highly doubt they get more than 2 touchdowns and have many of their red zones trips turned into only field goals. The Jets will completely own the time of possession game. This doesn't matter for the Colts quick strike offense, but it is a completely different story for their defense. With a poor running defense the Jets will just keep pounding the ball away and the longer this goes on the more the Colts defense will get worn out. The Colts have one of the smallest defenses in football as well. They will tire out a lot easier and faster than most teams and the Jets will dominate the 4th quarter. The tired defense will eventually give up a big run or two and that's all the Jets will need to win because they will keep the score close. The only factor that can really change this outcome are turnovers. Mark Sanchez is being kept on a huge leash right now and they are playing him really conservatively. The Colts pass rushers though will probably get a sack fumble out of him but the Jets will get their turnovers as well. Peyton Manning isn't invincible, Ed Reed intercepted him twice last week. All it takes is a tipped ball or a big play on defense. The Jets will win this close game through their powerful running game and dominating defense. The Colts will have to play near perfect football if they want to win and I just don't see that happening.