Columnist Sal DeFilippo: Niners-Packers took gamblers for a wild ride

It was one of those rare cases where the excitement actually parallels the hype.

The Green Bay-San Francisco NFC wild-card game gave gamblers the best of all worlds.

With Green Bay ahead 27-23, the Niners mounted their final drive with 1:30 remaining. A San Francisco touchdown would mean a tie against the spread, and would send the game over the total of 51. There was one other thing -- oh yeah, it would keep the 49ers alive in the playoffs.

Steve Young hit Terrell Owens in the end zone with three seconds to go, capping one of the best games in recent years. To think, Reggie White could have stayed retired after all.

Defending champion Denver and three teams who weren't in the playoffs a year ago -- the New York Jets, Minnesota and Atlanta -- open their second season this weekend.

The most frightening is 15-1 Minnesota, which set a league scoring record and seemingly can move the ball at will, particularly in the controlled atmosphere of the Metrodome.

* SHELTON WINS CONTEST: Congratulations to KSHP 1400-AM "Sports Line" host Alex Shelton, winner of this year's What's Their Line handicapping contest.

Shelton, who led throughout much of the season, finished with $23,700 of Monopoly money to top the field of eight contestants.

Shelton's key to success: Access to information made available through his many radio guests and contacts. It should be noted that Shelton was the only contestant in the field of eight who isn't either a professional handicapper or a sports book manager.

Handicappers Mike Lee ($21,700) and Jackie Dell ($21,100) were the only other entrants to finish with more money than the $20,000 allotment to start the season.

Divisional playoffsSAN FRANCISCO +3 1/2 over Atlanta, over 53 1/2 -- This could be another case where the team with the ball last wins. The points are too tasty to pass up, but Morten Andersen will win it with a field-goal at the buzzer. Atlanta 31, San Francisco 28.

MIAMI +13 1/2 at Denver, under 47 1/2 -- Dan Marino and John Elway hook up for the second time in three weeks. Marino's passing made the difference in the first game. Elway's supporting cast and the home-field advantage will make the difference in this one. Denver 23, Miami 13.

JACKSONVILLE +7 1/2 at New York Jets, over 44 1/2 -- Mark Brunell still may not be 100 percent, but the Jacksonville offense is dangerous as long as he's on the field. Vinny Testaverde's dream season continues, but not without a scare. New York Jets 30, Jacksonville 28.

MINNESOTA -15 1/2 vs. Arizona, over 53 -- The Cardiac Cardinals will need triple bypass surgery by the time this one's over. Minnesota 40, Arizona 23.

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