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NFL Wild Card Weekend predictions for every game

Originally posted on NFL Analysis Network
By Ian Van Roy | Last updated Jan 11, 2025 10:23 AM ET

Between the Philadelphia Eagles, Los Angeles Rams, and the other dozen teams in the playoffs, there are plenty of opportunities for twists.

The NFL is entering a unique section of the calendar. What once was a weekly feast of watching teams like the Kansas City Chiefs and Green Bay Packers play every week has become a source of entertainment in short supply.

While analyst opinions like Dan Orlovsky on Mike Tomlin are year-round, fresh football is running dangerously low.

With teams like the Carolina Panthers and New York Giants done for the year, all attention remaining is left for winning football teams. From this point forward, every team left has a winning record. Also, unless something shocking happens, the ship has sailed for stars many hoped would return like Aaron Donald.

Still, picking winners from the 14 best teams left could be a tall order. As such, here’s a look at what NFL analysis expects to happen this weekend.

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Los Angeles Chargers vs Houston Texans

The Los Angeles Chargers haven’t been in the dance, but between Jim Harbaugh and many veteran pieces, this team is surprisingly primed to make some noise this January. Expect CJ Stroud’s Houston Texans to come up short, raising questions going forward.

Chargers win, 24-16

Denver Broncos vs Buffalo Bills

The Denver Broncos beat the Buffalo Bills in their building last year. Since then, the Bills have arguably gotten weaker while the Denver Broncos have gotten stronger. It will be Bo Nix’s first playoff game, so that most likely will be the difference. Still, expect a thriller.

Bills win, 23-24

Washington Commanders vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Washington Commanders and Tampa Bay Buccaneers might have the most competitive matchup of the weekend. Baker Mayfield’s defense has been a thorn in their side while Jayden Daniels will be working through his first playoff appearance. Expect the veteran to win, but only just.

Buccaneers win, 27-24

Pittsburgh Steelers vs Baltimore Ravens

Russell Wilson and the Pittsburgh Steelers are in a nose-dive. The Steelers haven’t won a playoff game in nearly a decade. However, the Baltimore Ravens will be down Zay Flowers. Still, expect the Steelers to be eliminated this weekend.

Ravens win, 20-10

Green Bay Packers vs Philadelphia Eagles

The Green Bay Packers and Philadelphia Eagles‘ 2024-25 season ends as it starts. At least, that is how the losing team will tell the tale. Jordan Love managed to upset the Dallas Cowboys last year in the Wild Card round, so expect a similar turn of events this time. Jalen Hurts’ month-long absence doesn’t bode well either.

Packers win, 30-20

Minnesota Vikings vs Los Angeles Rams

The Minnesota Vikings and Los Angeles Rams are heading into one of the least conventional playoff games of all time. Despite winning the division, the Rams will play the game in the Arizona Cardinals’ stadium. Despite this, Matthew Stafford takes care of business in a big spot.

Rams win, 27-17

This article first appeared on NFL Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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