NFL Playoff Schedule 2012: Road To The Super Bowl Down To Four Teams

After another weekend of thrilling playoff football, the road to the Super Bowl became even more clear, as only four teams remain in the chase for the Lombardi Trophy.

In the AFC, the New England Patriots showed why they were the No. 1 seed in the AFC with a dominant 45-10 victory over Tim Tebow and the Denver Broncos. The result was never in question, as the Patriots jumped out to a quick 14-point lead and coasted to the victory. Tom Brady delivered a brilliant performance, throwing for 6 TD's in the victory.

It wasn't quite as easy for the Baltimore Ravens, who had to fight off the gutsy Houston Texans. The Ravens defense showed that it is still one of the best in the NFL, forcing T.J. Yates to throw three interceptions in the 20-13 victory. Although he struggled with his accuracy, Joe Flacco threw for 176 yards and 2 TD's in the win.

The San Francisco 49ers knocked off the New Orleans Saints in the one of the most entertaining games in recent playoff history. Alex Smith delivered two TD drives in the final five minutes to propel the 49ers to the 36-32 victory. San Francisco will host the surprising New York Giants for a spot in the Super Bowl. In the regular-season meeting between these teams, the 49ers picked up a 27-20 win.

New York delivered a dominant performance at Lambeau Field, knocking off the No. 1 seed Green Bay Packers. The Giants defense controlled the game in the 37-20 victory, forcing four turnovers. Eli Manning continued his excellent postseason, throwing for 3 TD's for the second consecutive game.

Be sure to visit SB Nation NFL for all your news and notes heading into these games.