The Sports Monitor

Steelers coach Mike Tomlin says he's happy with the coach at running back the team made last spring. Given the choice of Eddie Lacy and Le'Veon Bell, the Steelers choose Bell. What else would they say? One of the rumors after the draft was the Steelers liked Bell better because of worries about Lacy's health. Well, Bell has had his share of injuries this season. So far, Lacy has rushed for 1,028 yards on 248 carries (4.1 avg.) and eight touchdowns. He has 31 catches for 236 yards. Bell has 646 yards rushing on 198 attempts (3.3 avg.) and six touchdowns. He has 43 catches for 388 yards. Bell has been fine for the Steelers, running behind a make-shift line all season. But I would have taken Lacy in the spring, and nothing since then would have changed my mind.

Tom Hanks made the line famous in "A League of Their Own." Maybe Cowboys receiver Dez Bryant should take it to heart in football too. Bryant said he walked off the field before the end of the 'Boys' stunning loss to the Packers because of his emotions. Bryant said he went into the locker room and cried. Really? In a regular-season game? Wow. He really is an emotional wreck. He seriously needs to grow up.

I had a rough weekend picking the wild-card round. I had too many outside influences on my choices. Fantasy football leagues, home teams, allegiances all came into play. I've eliminated all the outside factors this week. It's time to bounce back. Saints at 49ers: Classic matchup between great offense and great defense. The Niners are at home and on grass, which should slow down the Saints, but I don't see how Alex Smith can lead San Fran past Drew Brees and the Saints. If the Niners are to win, the defense will need some turnovers and probably score at least one touchdown. The Saints are just too much. Saints 27, 49ers 16 Giants at Packers: Don't look now, but the Giants defense on a roll. They will face a serious test against Aaron Rodgers and the Packers, but they are peaking at the right time. Will it be enough? I don't think so. All season, Rodgers and Co. have come through, putting up the points when needed. The Giants might shut d...