NFL Playoffs: Upsets Loom as Favored Teams Face Injuries and Questionable Confidence

Strategic Insights -

Veteran Miami quarterback Dan Marino and his team are heading into the divisional playoffs with a reputation for producing magic, most recently against Seattle. However, their upcoming game against Jacksonville is far less predictable, with the Jags as firm favorites. Meanwhile, Washington Redskins' running-back Stephen Davis is confident he'll play despite an injured ankle, and Tampa Bay will rely on their strong running game led by Mike Alstott and Warrick Dunn.

Key Takeaways:

  • Dan Marino and the Miami Dolphins are poised to make a deep playoff run, having already shown their capabilities against Seattle.
  • Jacksonville quarterback Mark Brunell has been wearing a new brace on his sprained left knee in practice and is a key player to watch in the upcoming game.
  • Washington Redskins' running-back Stephen Davis rates his injured ankle at 80-85% effective and is confident he will play in the playoff game.
  • Tampa Bay's running backs, Mike Alstott and Warrick Dunn, were a dominant force in the regular season, combining for 1,565 rushing yards.
  • Indianapolis Colts will be without their leading tackler, linebacker Cornelius Bennett, due to a knee injury for the remainder of the playoffs.
  • Tennessee tight end Frank Wycheck is set to play despite a strained ligament in his left knee.
  • St Louis Rams free safety Keith Lyle is recovering from nerve damage but is expected to return to play against the Minnesota Vikings.

Statistics:

  • Dan Marino and the Miami Dolphins have shown impressive playoff form.
  • Jacksonville's Mark Brunell has been dealing with a sprained knee in practice.
  • Stephen Davis has gained 119 yards on 15 carries and scored twice before getting injured.
  • Mike Alstott and Warrick Dunn combined for 1,565 rushing yards in the regular season.
  • Indianapolis leading tackler, linebacker Cornelius Bennett, will be out for the duration of the playoffs.
  • Frank Wycheck has a strained ligament in his left knee.
  • Keith Lyle has been sidelined with nerve damage.

Sources:

  • Sports news reports from NFL play-off weekend