Last week, I struggled with my predictions by going 2-4 as the Packers and Buccaneers pulled off stunning upsets on wildcard weekend. It means the field has narrowed to eight teams with a chance of hoisting the Lombardi in three weeks. The Ravens, Bills, Chiefs, and 49ers had expectations of being in this position at the start of the season. However, the Texans, Lions, Packers, and Buccaneers have exceeded expectations, and playing without any pressure, which is a dangerous prospect for any opponent they face. The divisional round is traditionally the best weekend to watch football on the calendar, and this year looks like it will not disappoint. In this article, we will preview and predict the showdowns looming in the divisional round.
1. Houston Texans at Baltimore Ravens-Saturday, 4:30 p.m., ABC/ESPN
These two teams played each other in week 1, with the Ravens beating the Texans 25-9 in their home opener. However, the result does not project what will happen this weekend because both teams have made significant improvements in the season. The Texans are now a young team brimming with confidence, while the Ravens became a juggernaut as the best team in the league. The Texans were dominant at home last week against the Browns, with quarterback CJ Stroud starring in his first playoff game. The Ravens, on the other hand, enjoyed their bye week, and they could be rusty by not playing a competitive game with their starters in 3 weeks. Last week illustrated the need for teams to start fast in the playoffs, and I think the Ravens will be ready in front of their home crowd. Lamar Jackson and CJ Stroud will play well, but I expect the Ravens QB to shine brighter and win this game.
Ravens 27-Texans 23
2. Green Bay Packers at San Francisco 49ers- Saturday, 8:15 p.m., Foxy
These are among the two of the oldest teams in the NFL, and they will match up for a record tenth time in the playoffs. Last week, the Packers pulled off a stunning win by going on the road and dominating a Cowboys team that was undefeated at home. The Packers will again be underdogs as they head to California for a matchup with the 49ers. I think the 49ers’ motion offense will be difficult for this Cowboys defense, and will enable them to play the game from ahead. Jordan Love showed last week he is in the ascending, and he will be able to keep his team in this game. However, in the end, I think the 49ers will force a late turnover to clinch a thrilling win.
49ers 30-Packers 27
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Detroit Lions- Sunday, 3 p.m., NBC
If you had this matchup at the start of the season to face off in the divisional round, then you are probably lying. Last week, The Buccaneers stomped the Eagles at home in a surprising lopsided win, while the Lions edged the Rams to clinch their first postseason win in over 30 years. Baker Mayfield has proved this season that he is a quality starting quarterback in the league, and Mike Evans showed that he should be paid top dollars based on his value to the team. However, I can’t see this team going into Detroit in that rabid home atmosphere and beating the Lions. The Lions won the week six matchup 20-6, and I think Jared Goff will have his offense humming in his home building. I don’t think Baker will be able to mount a comeback, but it will be a competitive game, and the Lions will advance to the NFC Championship game.
Lions 31-Bucs 23
4. Kansas City Chiefs at Buffalo Bills-Sunday, 6:30 p.m., CBS
They saved the best for last because this game has all the makings of a classic contest. The Bills won the regular season matchup in Kansas City by a margin of 20-17. In fact, the Bills have won the last three regular-season matchups. Interestingly, the Chiefs have the psychological edge in the playoffs because Patrick Mahomes is 2-0 against the Bills by winning back-to-back games in 2021 & 2022. However, this game will mark the first postseason game for Patrick Mahomes on the road and away from the comforts of Arrowhead Stadium. It will be a challenging task for the reigning Superbowl MVP, especially in an offense that has struggled to score all season. The unit did show an improvement in the wild card round, but I don’t think the issues are fixed. The key for Josh Allen is protecting the football and taking the safe throws the defense will allow. I think he will do just that, and the Bills will advance to the AFC Conference Championship in a thriller.
Bills 28-Chiefs 27