Ten things I’ll be watching today as the playoffs kick off…
1. Matt Ryan
Despite what Chiefs apologists may say, we could have leapfrogged the Falcons and acquired my guy by trading with the Rams. We didn’t, and that choice could haunt us for the next decade.
2. Darren Sproles
L.T. is too hurt to be effective, so today will be Sproles free agency audition. Here’s hoping that he comes home to Kansas City.
3. Karlos Dansby
Another free agent prize the Chiefs could end up going after.
4. Quarterback Play
All four of these teams have star quarterbacks. That’s what it takes to win in the NFL. Most of the time, at least.
5. Norv Turner
I actually hope he wins so that he can stick around in sunny San Diego.
6. Ovie “The Drill” Mughelli
To fondly recall what a legitimate fullback can do for a rushing attack.
7. Kurt Warner
To ponder whether a veteran quarterback — like, say, Donovan McNabb — would be the right guy to bring our Red and Gold back from the depths.
8. Anquan Boldin and Larry Fitzgerald
To see what Dwayne Bowe needs to do to advance from self-proclaimed superstar to legitimate superstar.
9. John Abraham
To see what a dominating pass rusher can do for a defense.
10. The Atlanta Falcons
To see if a bottom five team can bring in a first-time coach and GM and make a legitimate Super Bowl run the very next season.








