Dave Hackenberg's picks

1/9/2005

Blade pro football writer Dave Hackenberg has always loved the great outdoors, but the same can't be said for the Minnesota Vikings, who have lost 18 of their last 20 games not played in domed stadiums. Lambeau Field, at last check, has no dome. The Vikings, at last check, have no chance. Here are Hack's picks, against point spreads, for today's NFL playoff games:

Denver (+10) at Indianapolis: Broncos safety John Lynch said, "I think we sent a message," after last Sunday's 33-14 win over Indy. What message? That while he may have lost a step he can still deliver a cheap shot? The only message we received was that Peyton Manning, Edgerrin James and other key Colts played just one series. Indy will have to stop the run, but this one shouldn't be close. Pick: COLTS.

Minnesota (+6) at Green Bay: This is a tale of two teams. The

Vikings limped, crawled and backed into the playoffs with a 1-4 mark in last five games. Pack won last two (including a game in Minneapolis) and three of final four to build some momentum. Vikes haven't beaten Green Bay this season and that won't change today. Pick: PACKERS.