PFT’s conference championship game picks - NBC Sports

Jan 26, 2023

I don’t want to discount the great season Jalen Hurts and the Eagles have had, and playing in Philadelphia is an advantage, but I think the 49ers are playing better football than the Eagles right now, and I’m picking the upset.

And Jalen Hurts is a far more accomplished quarterback than Brock Purdy.

Regardless, Hurts is the more proven quarterback, and I’ve got more faith in him to make a big play in a big spot, and/or to inspire his teammates at the right moment to do something that will make a difference.

MDS’s take: If Patrick Mahomes were 100 percent healthy, the Chiefs would be favored.

With Mahomes’ ankle possibly affecting him, the Bengals have been the favorites for most of the week, and it’s tempting to pick them — especially considering how well Joe Burrow has played in the playoffs so far in his young career.

And yet I think even with Mahomes hobbling, this Chiefs team has the kind of offense that can attack the Bengals’ defense, and I’m going to pick Kansas City.