by Joe Wrighter

Created on: January 19, 2007   Last Updated: December 10, 2011

The time has come for the best the NFL has to offer to play their very best. Twenty weeks ago, any fan could give you reasons as to why his or her team was going all the way. Now, only four cities can make their claims. After this weekend, there will only be two, and the long-awaited Superbowl matchup will be set.

The Breakdown:

THE BEARS - Has a 13 win team ever been so harshly criticized and doubted? Of course, QB Rex Grossman's play the second half of the season has given doubters plenty of ammunition. But in last week's game against Seattle, Rex limited his mistakes and made just enough big plays to win. The main question mark now is the defense. This once stout unit has given up 21+ points in 5 straight games...against an offense as prolific as New Orleans, that does not bode well.

THE SAINTS - After a monster year from QB Drew Brees and an offense that includes Pro Bowl receiver Joe Horn, outstanding rookies Marques Colston and Reggis Bush, and dependable RB Deuce McAllister, the Saints must go on the road and win one game to continue their cinderella story. At the beginning of the year, most experts picked this team to finish at the bottom of their division, but they've played with passion and surprising talent all year long. With this momentum and a wide array of weapons to exploit the Bears defense, I don't think this story is over yet.

THE COLTS - Indianapolis has been so good for so long now, the regular season has become almost meaningless for them and their fans. Perhaps that is part of the reason the Colt's defense sucked so mightily during the season and has come alive in the playoffs. The return of dynamite safety Bob Sanders sure hasn't hurt, either. Still Indy has made it this far with all-world quarterback Peyton Manning playing two sub-par games. Will he be able to get it going in the AFC championship?

THE PATRIOTS - This team is the epitome of success. We all know they won three superbowls in four years, but the amazing thing is, every year they find a new way to be successful. Best clutch kicker in the game signs with your rival? No problem. Best wide receivers all leave? Hey, we got guys who can fill in. Many thought the Pats would fall off this year, yet here they are again, competing for the championship. Will history repeat itself, or will Brady's bunch finally lose to the team they've come to dominate?

PREDICTION: I won't try to predict the scores, but I think the Superbowl will be Saints vs. Colts.

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