It says something when a visitor is favored on the road in a game of this magnitude. That's usually based on a conservative comparison as well. Especially against a number one seed.

I think part of it is that Atlanta didn't make a great impression last week. Most people probably thought they had blown the game. The comeback also really was kind of under stated, if such a thing really can be judged. One nice sideline pass and a timeout. One conventional simple pass in the middle and a timeout. A makeable kick without weather factors. Credit to them for doing it, but they didn't use any magic getting it done. And Seattle seemed almost to have let their go ahead score put them in a state of defensive passivity.

Atlanta basically went steadily downhill after the first quarter and barely saved themselves thanks largely in part to Seattle mistakes in the first half.

So I think the way that game played out means they really don't have positive momentum or excessive confidence. Even with the last thirty second revival.

Conversely, the Niners got better as the game went on, becoming more physical, intimidating and impressing their will on the Packers. The last few minutes of the fourth quarter were irrelevant.

Unless Atlanta has unbelievable self confidence I just don't see them having the intangibles and resources to win after sixty minutes. They'll have their moments and score a few times, but I expect the Niners to dominate time of possession and capitalize in the red zone most of the time. the only caveat are self-induced mistakes or an unexpected poor game from key players like Kap or the defensive Smiths. The secondary will be most challenged, but I can't see Ryan having consistent deep success. Gonzales will possibly be their most important receiver in moving the chains. linebacker pass coverage should be solid, but he's a special player.

I don't like the fact we lost about 80% of the most recent championship games. And if it happens again it will be a real issue to deal with in upcoming years. But the team is hot, has a strong redemption motive and a smart coaching staff. Assuming Crabtree can play as he normally does, it should be a double digit win. And convincing enough to be at least equal odds with the Pats. Or favorites over the other HRbaugh.