NFL Playoffs 2012: Fun Win Probability Graphs From Saturday's Games

It's always interesting to check out win probability graphs, no matter the sport. Looking back on the swings in momentum, plays that had a significant affect on the outcome of the game and just how in-control a matchup was at any given time can paint a fun picture of what happened. Such is the case for Saturday's NFL playoff matchups, which took two drastically different paths to their outcomes.

In one game, Tom Brady and the Patriots essentially ended the Broncos hopes early. The game was in hand in the first half and the Broncos never stood a chance.

In the other, a wild last few minutes caused peaks and valleys on the win probability chart, lending a visual aid to the drama taking place in San Francisco. The 49ers won, sure, but what a finish it was.

First up, the Niners win over the Saints. Look at the spikes at the end:

And then there was the Patriots win over the Broncos. By halftime, the game was basically over in a statistical sense.

Graphs courtesy of Advanced NFL Stats.