7.5 point underdogs? Really?

Yes, the Seattle Seahawks are nearly 8-point dogs to the Green Bay Packers in tomorrow's NFC Divisional Playoff game.

I repeat, really?

Statistically speaking, these teams are in a dead heat on both sides of the ball.

By rank, the Packers offense is #1 in the NFC; the Hawks #5.

Passing: Packers #1; 'Hawks #5
Rushing: Packers #9; 'Hawks #8
Receiving: Packers #1; 'Hawks #6
Edge: Packers

Defensively, it's scary how evenly matched they are:

Overall: Packers #6; 'Hawks #7
Rush Yds. (per game): Packers 102.9; 'Hawks 102.8
Pass Yds. (per game): Packers 210.4; 'Hawks 219.1
Points Allowed (total): Packers 291; 'Hawks 291
Edge: None

Special teams, the edge goes to the 'Hawks, both on kick and punt returns. The two teams are virtually dead even in the kicking game. A big edge goes to the Packers on punting. Edge: 'Hawks.

But the playoffs are really about turnovers. Whoever turns over the ball the least, usually wins. In that department, the 'Hawks have a +10 takeaway to giveaway ratio; the Packers +4. Edge: 'Hawks.

Meanwhile, the 'Hawks were third in the NFC with 45 sacks, while the Packers had 35. And the speed of the 'Hawks linebackers and corners cannot be understated. If you watched last week's thumping of the Redskins, you know exactly what speed and pressure can do to a QB. Edge: 'Hawks.

Then there are the intangibles.

The 'Hawks are playoff-tested and battle-ready team that's been to the playoff 5 straight years; the Packers were last in the playoffs in 2004. Yes, the Packers have Favre who will be up against 4 All-Pro 'Hawks. And let's forget how well an inexperienced 'Hawks QB Hasselbeck played in Lambeau in 2004. Edge: 'Hawks.

This is Packers head coach Mike McCarthy first trip to the post-season. He will face off against a coach with 1 Super Bowl victory and countless playoff appearances and multiple victories. Edge: 'Hawks.

Of course, there's St. Brett and Lambeau. But the weather looks like it is here in Seattle quite often: chilly, slight breeze and few snow flurries. Fairly tame by Lambeau in January standards. Edge: Packers (Huge edge, really.)

This game, like most playoffs games will come down to turnovers and special teams. Any big plays on a turnover or returns and it could be the difference maker.

I love Brett. He's my favorite player of all-time. But I'm a Seattle-ite and while I'm rooting for the 'Hawks big time, I think the Packers will still win.

But by 7.5 points? Makes you wonder what brand of crack the Vegas oddsmakers are smoking.

Packers 28, 'Hawks 24.

If you're gambling man (or woman), take the 'Hawks and the points. I know I have.

P.S. I won't be watching the game tomorrow, my wife and I have a 9-5 birthing/baby care class. We're expecting our first in March. But I'm sure all of us will be checking our cells during every break... ;-) And yes, I'm Tivo-ing the game...