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Experts' Picks

SI.com's writers pick the championship games

Posted: Thursday January 19, 2006 2:19PM; Updated: Thursday January 19, 2006 3:19PM
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  PITTSBURGH at DENVER CAROLINA at SEATTLE

Don Banks		 Having disposed of the Patriots and with no Colts around, the Broncos are supposed to win and go on to rout the eventual NFC champion. But the Steelers are road-tested and playing too well to be denied.
Pittsburgh 27, Denver 23		 It's bad timing for the 'Hawks, but playoff seeding just doesn't mean as much this season. The Panthers are fearless and have the game's reigning big-play performer in Steve Smith.
Carolina 23, Seattle 17

Jeffri Chadiha		 Ben Roethlisberger continues his efficient play in another hostile environment.
Pittsburgh 24, Denver 21		 Given the way Jake Delhomme and Steve Smith torched the Bears' defense, the Seahawks have no chance.
Carolina 27, Seattle 17

Nunyo Demasio		 It's been unwise betting against Pittsburgh since late in the regular season, and it's even more true now that Ben Roethlisberger has shown these road warriors can throw their way to victory.
Pittsburgh 21, Denver 17		 After showing that they can win without their stud back, the Seahawks roll to victory in Shaun Alexander's return, even as Steve Smith puts on his latest show.
Seattle 28, Carolina 19

Peter King		 This is the toughest football pick I have ever had to make. I flipped a coin and it landed on its side. I just have a feeling that Pittsburgh turns into Blitzburgh and wins.
Pittsburgh 21, Denver 20 		I said to Mike Holmgren last week that his special teams will be fatal unless they get fixed. Just a gut feeling, but I don't think they got that area fixed in the last few days.
Carolina 24, Seattle 17

Michael Silver		 Something infinitesimal is going to decide this game. Let us pray it's neither an atrocious P.I. call nor an unconscionable replay overturn.
Denver 21, Pittsburgh 20
 Jake Delhomme and Matt Hasselbeck stage a classic QB duel, and he who has the ball last, wins.
Carolina 30, Seattle 28

Dr. Z		 Two blitzing teams, but I'll take Dick LeBeau's variety.
Pittsburgh 20, Denver 17		 Spirit, fire and inner toughness will carry this team of destiny all the way. (Plus, in August I picked it to win the Super Bowl.)
Carolina 24, Seattle 20

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