Your Ultimate NFL Wild Card Guide: Matchups, Predictions, And Expert Insights
The NFL Wild Card weekend is upon us, and with it comes a slate of exciting matchups and potential upsets. Here's a closer look at each game, along with predictions and expert insights:
Saturday, January 14
Buffalo Bills vs. Miami Dolphins
The Bills enter the playoffs as the No. 2 seed in the AFC, while the Dolphins clinched a Wild Card berth with a thrilling win in Week 18. Buffalo has dominated the Dolphins in recent years, winning the last seven meetings. However, Miami has shown significant improvement under head coach Mike McDaniel, and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is playing at a high level.
Expert Predictions:
- CBS Sports: Bills
- ESPN: Bills
- The Athletic: Bills
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Los Angeles Chargers
The Jaguars are making their first playoff appearance since 2017, thanks in large part to a resurgent defense led by quarterback Trevor Lawrence. The Chargers, meanwhile, have struggled with consistency all season but still managed to secure a Wild Card spot. Justin Herbert is one of the league's most talented quarterbacks, but he will need to play his best to overcome Jacksonville's stingy defense.
Expert Predictions:
- CBS Sports: Chargers
- ESPN: Chargers
- The Athletic: Jaguars
Sunday, January 15
New York Giants vs. Minnesota Vikings
The Giants pulled off one of the most surprising turnarounds in NFL history, going from 4-13 in 2021 to winning the NFC East in 2022. Quarterback Daniel Jones has been a revelation under head coach Brian Daboll, and the Giants' defense has been solid all season. The Vikings, meanwhile, have been dealing with injuries to key players, including quarterback Kirk Cousins and running back Dalvin Cook. However, Minnesota has a talented roster and should be competitive in this matchup.
Expert Predictions:
- CBS Sports: Vikings
- ESPN: Giants
- The Athletic: Giants
Baltimore Ravens vs. Cincinnati Bengals
In a rematch of last year's AFC Divisional Round, the Ravens and Bengals will face off with a trip to the Divisional Round on the line. Baltimore has been one of the NFL's most consistent teams in recent years, but they have struggled with injuries this season. Quarterback Lamar Jackson has been dealing with a knee injury, and his status for the Wild Card game is uncertain. The Bengals, meanwhile, are coming off a disappointing regular season, but they have a lot of talent, led by quarterback Joe Burrow.
Expert Predictions:
- CBS Sports: Bengals
- ESPN: Bengals
- The Athletic: Ravens
Monday, January 16
Dallas Cowboys vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Cowboys are one of the most talented teams in the NFC, but they have struggled with consistency all season. Quarterback Dak Prescott has been injured multiple times, and the defense has been inconsistent. The Buccaneers, meanwhile, have been a disappointment in 2022, but they still have Tom Brady at quarterback. Brady is one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, and he will be looking to add to his legacy with another Super Bowl victory.
Expert Predictions:
- CBS Sports: Buccaneers
- ESPN: Cowboys
- The Athletic: Cowboys
Conclusion
The NFL Wild Card weekend is always filled with surprises, and this year should be no different. There are several intriguing matchups on tap, and it's impossible to say for sure who will come out on top. However, one thing is for certain: the playoffs are always more fun when the stakes are high. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.