Poll
Who will win Sunday's AFC Championship Game?
Your vote has been counted, thank you for voting.
Let's consider motivation for a moment.
Puppies are motivated by a desire to make their masters happy – and by food. College students do their best when grades and the possibility of a fine career or job are on the line. Some college students also are motivated by really hot women (or men, your choice).
Professional football players? My guess is they are motivated by their desire to perform well under an intense spotlight, being part of a team endeavor, knowing they must be thoroughly prepared to play in one of the sporting world's most grueling and dangerous tests, and by a desire to win.
It's fairly certain that opponents' comments – delivered in print, Twitter or a recorded interview – don't make the list of things that get their motor running.
Some New York Giants, justifiably fired up after beating Green Bay, are chirping about being happy to face the 49ers next. No matter how hard some try to make more of it, the comments are tame.
The best 49ers response came from offensive lineman Anthony Davis, who tweeted simply: "Are the Giants doing drunk interviews? LoL," which was about perfect. Humorous, light, facetious.
Taking verbal shots at one another is a time-honored deal in sports (politics, too), yet there's no proof that it carries much weight.
There's way too much on the line for a little lame taunting to mean much, as these guys well know.
What to do
NBA, Indiana at Kings, Power Balance Pavilion, 7 p.m.: The Kings went 1-4 on the road trip; will being home help them tonight?
What to watch
NBA, Dallas at L.A. Clippers, 7:30 p.m., ESPN: It's the defending champs against the best NBA team in California.
Today's poll
Who will win Sunday's AFC Championship Game?
• Patriots
• Ravens
Vote above or leave your comments in the comment field; Or, go to www.sacbee.com/sports
Tuesday's results
Who will win Sunday's NFC Championship Game?
• 49ers: 86%
• Giants: 14%
Total votes: 509
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Contact Brian Blomster at bblomster@sacbee.com or (916) 326-5512.
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