NFL Playoffs: City Of Champions Staff Picks The Divisional Round Winners

Indianapolis Colts (12-5) at New England Patriots (12-4), Saturday at 8:15 p.m. ET on CBS

Gajtka: The Colts shocked everyone – maybe even themselves – when they surged back from down 28 points in the third quarter to stun the Chiefs. But despite the late heroics from Andrew Luck and Co., the Indy defense capitulated to depleted Kansas City for much of the game. I say the Patriots pick the Colts apart in Foxboro, and it’s not close.  Prediction: Patriots 35, Colts 17.

Nov 18, 2012; Foxboro, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots punt returner

(11) carries the ball during a punt return in the fourth quarter at Gillette Stadium. The New England Patriots won 59-24. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

Shetler: This could turn into a shootout between two great quarterbacks in Luck and Tom Brady. However, New England has forced the most turnovers in the NFL the past five years and that will be the difference. A couple of mistakes by Luck will prevent a miraculous comeback. The Colts make it interesting at the end but I’m taking Brady at home. Patriots 30, Colts 27.

Weiss: The Patriots have a quarterback that is proven. Colts may be relaxed and tweeting out underwear pictures, but the Patriots are the more talented team. Much like the 49ers, they have been in this position often. Colts showed a lot beating the Chiefs but it ends here. Patriots 35, Colts 24.

Snyder: New England defeated Luck and the Colts 59-24 in Week 11 action. I do not see Bill Belichick and Brady allowing another magical comeback by Indy this week. Patriots 30, Colts 21.

Tunno: A back and forth battle. Luck leads the Colts to a long game-ending drive, capped off by an Adam Vinatieri field goal as time expires to eliminate his former team. Colts 20, Patriots 17.

McDowell: Both teams have had a season of fourth-quarter wins, which makes for an exciting Saturday night playoff. Can the Colts pull off another thriller? This game may come down to the Aqib Talib vs. T.Y. Hilton matchup. Going with Luck and picking the upset. Colts 43, Patriots 40.

STAFF TOTAL: PATRIOTS 4-2