Since the Tar Heels keep disappointing me, I'm glad that the Steelers are still alive and giving me much-needed sports hope. And it's refreshingly easy to pull for the Steelers these days. What is there not to like about Ben Roethlisberger, Jerome Bettis, Hines Ward, and Bill Cowher (ok, I admit Joey Porter is a little hard to love)? Also, other UNC alumi should appreciate the fun of watching Jeff Reed and Willie Parker do so well. Art Rooney still walks through the old neighborhood to the stadium on game days and the team plays tough, old-school football.

Still, I can't help but remain nervous about the AFC championship game this weekend, because Denver has been tough this season at home and the Steelers have a history of choking in conference championship games. If we can get to Detroit, I think our chances are good for Superbowl XL. What are your picks and why?