They were what, 3rd against the run and 12th against the pass going into the playoffs. But they were 1st in terms of defending the red zone, so I'm guessing that a lot of teams that managed to get close were stopped trying to run it in. Meaning that if you want to beat them you have to score less conventionally in that respect.
I think they're the best team standing, on balance, but their vulnerability through the air, relatively speaking, could allow either Atlanta or Green Bay a punchers chance against them. Absent pressure, neither team is going to have much luck stopping Brady. Both defenses are bottom tier against the pass, though Green Bay has a good run defense.
I suppose I shouldn't be overlooking the Steelers, but it's hard for me to see them finding a way to win against the Pats. They seem like a similar, but lesser version of the New England.
