Scribbler's Wrap-Up: NFL Playoffs, Divisional Round

What if I told you that you may have just watched the last best weekend of NFL playoff football until the 2015 season begins?  Coming into this weekend, there were so many compelling storylines with each game.  The Ravens always seem to have the Patriots' number in Foxboro.  It's always a defensive dogfight between the Panthers and Seahawks.  An injured Mr. Discount Double Check might appear mortal after all in the "Ice Bowl II".  Peyton faces his replacement for the first time in the playoffs.  Some things turned out as expected while there were a few surprises and controversies along the way.  Nevertheless, if you're a true fan of the sport like I am, none of these games disappointed.  Instead of regurgitating statistics, I'll give you my biggest takeaways from this weekend.

Dirk's 1st Annual NFL Free Agency Frenzy Wrap-Up



Now that's a money shot.  Amidst so much doubt as to whether you're the franchise quarterback, you go out and play nearly flawless postseason football, win a Super Bowl and put yourself in position to virtually request a blank check during contract negotiations.  However, not every player was in the same position as Joe Flacco when the free agency frenzy began last Tuesday--especially because quarterbacks always get preferential treatment when they win that Lombardi trophy.  Some players tried to gain leverage from what the market dictated combined with their productivity to either be the highest paid or just get more money for their families, fledgling businesses and/or sports car fetishes.  On the converse, many teams had to make hard decisions because they were running up against the salary cap, often letting go of some of their best players.  One thing is clear from this year's free agency frenzy: if you bank on wearing the same uniform your whole career, then plan on being broke.