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First down
New England at N.Y. Jets, 11 a.m., Ch. 2 • I find it curious that Pats players were anonymously criticizing Rob Gronkowski for not rushing back after his 37 offseason surgeries. A few thoughts: 1. It's not your career that's on the line with another injury, so shut up; 2. You went 5-1 without him, so shut up; and 3. Even if he were sitting out again, you're playing the Jets, so shut up.
Second down
Dallas at Philadelphia, 11 a.m., Ch. 13 • Eagles fans uneasy with Michael Vick being their quarterback on account of that whole torturing-and-murdering-dogs episode may now rejoice that his hamstrings are as fragile as Alex Rodriguez's psyche in a playoff game. Nick Foles — this is an opportunity not only to render your job competition irrelevant, but also to make yourself beloved by a fan base that is, ironically, quite rabid.
Third down
Houston at Kansas City, 2:25 p.m., Ch. 2 • Sports fans are not, by their nature, tremendously patient people, and thus Texans' supporters desire to see Matt "Pick-six" Schaub head for the sideline is understandable. That they cheered when his body was awkwardly contorted and his ankle sprained was a bit much. OK, ya degenerates … you got your wish; Case Keenum is your new QB. Now … who are you going to blame when K.C. whips your butt?
Fourth down
Denver at Indianapolis, 6:30 p.m., Ch. 5 • Faux apologies are my favorite. Angry Figurehead speaks spouts off, public reacts, Angry Figurehead, not anticipating the level of vitriol, backtracks, usually by claiming comments were taken out of context. Guess what, Jimmy Irsay? While it may be presumptuous to expect Super Bowl wins, you're not alone in doubting Peyton Manning's playoff track record. But at least have the guts to own it.