The 2016 NFL playoffs roll into the conference championship games this Sunday, and we've got one home favorite and one road favorite in the early odds. The top two seeds advanced on each side of the bracket for the first time since 2004.
The NFC Championship Game features the Carolina Panthers hosting the Arizona Cardinals. Carolina opened as a 4-point favorite, but the line has come down to a field goal at most sites monitored by OddsShark. A couple are at 3.5 points. Carolina was up 31-0 at halftime against Seattle, but the Seahawks gave them a fight in the second half. Arizona was in a tough fight against Green Bay, giving up a last second Hail Mary to force overtime, and then winning quickly in the extra frame. I am slightly leaning Carolina at three points, but if it gets up to 3.5-points, I might be more likely to take Arizona.
The AFC Championship Game features the Denver Broncos hosting the New England Patriots. The Patriots opened as a 2.5-point favorite, and the line is up to a field goal at most sites monitored by OddsShark. A few have gone up to 3.5, but most are sticking at a field goal. The Patriots beat the Chiefs 27-20, but the game never really felt that close after the Chiefs could only manage field goals to the Patriots touchdowns early in the game. The Broncos won an ugly one over the Steelers, with the offense getting just enough done to get the win. I am leaning Patriots in this one if I can get them at a field goal or less. The Broncos have a strong defense, but I think the Patriots can put up big points on Sunday.