For the record..

In week 17, many were debating the right approach was for a team with nothing to play for. Here is a small statistical sampling:

New England- At 15-0, with the #1 seed wrapped up and only a perfect season to play for, the Pats played as hard as any week, and now find themselves hosting the AFC championship game.

Indianapolis- At 13-2, the Colts were locked into the #2 seed, and took all starters out before the start of the 2nd quarter. Their reward? Losing their first playoff game at home to Billy Volek.

Jacksonville- Locked into the 5th seed at 11-4, the Jags willingly took a beating from the Texans to give Garrard, Jones-Drew and Taylor a rest. While they did win at Pittsburgh, they still find themselves watching on TV with the rest of us next week.

Dallas- At 13-2 with te #1 seed in hand, Tony Romo played just the first half, and Marion Barber carried the ball only 6 times as the 'Boys let their division rival Redskins walk into the playoffs with a 27-6 win. Their reward? An opening round home loss to hated rival New York.

Green Bay- Despite having the #2 seed locked up, the Pack came out with something to prove, started their A-team and routed the Lions 34-13 to wrap up the season. Not surprisingly, they find themselves hosting the NFC title game next week.

New York Giants- Locked in the #5 seed and faced with a no-win situation ( try to derail the Pats perfect season or rest up a beat-up squad), Big Blue opted to play their hearts out and have the Pats a run for their money. They lost Sean O'Hara, but gained priceless confidence. Two road wins later they find themselves a game away from the Super Bowl.

So much for 'much-needed rest'...