This week of the NFL playoffs started slow and disappointed many fans. With most games being relatively predictable, only a few truly stood out this week.
Chargers (seed 5) at Texans (seed 4): While this game did have the away team favored, I personally think the Texans are a great team when playing at home, showing the importance of playoff seeding. I was correct, because throughout the game I felt the Chargers slowly die down throughout the game–almost like they were getting drowned out through the feisty Houston crowd. This negatively impacted Los Angeles quarterback Justin Herbert as he threw a career-high four interceptions, which led to Houston being able to secure a lead and win the game. Next week, I’m worried about the Texans, though, since they’re known to struggle in road games.
Broncos (seed 7) at Bills (seed 2): As a fan of both teams, I believed this matchup was going to be intense, so I’m disappointed in how the Broncos slowed and gave up in the second half. Thankfully the Bills continued to perform well offensively which kept me intrigued in the game. Buffalo QB Josh Allen continued to make his receivers look like stars, with one instance being his 24-yard pass to Ty Johnson. This ended up as a Buffalo win. Overall, the Bills’ offense looked stellar and made me excited to watch their next game.
Commanders (seed 6) at Buccaneers (seed 3): This was my favorite game this week. Each game has struggled to keep me on-edge, but this one didn’t. Each team was neck-and-neck, forcing the game to last until the clock hit exactly zero. It was really exciting to watch rookie QB Jayden Daniels lead the Commanders through this game, especially while being the away team. He had such a stellar performance as well, having himself 268-yards, two touchdown passes and no interceptions. While both teams played well, Washington scored a last-second field-goal that hit the goal post and went in, winning them the game. I cannot wait to see how this team performs next week against the Lions.
Vikings (seed 5) at Rams (seed 4): With the wildfires happening in Los Angeles, this game had to be moved to Arizona. While that choice strongly can impact the game, I think it was a good choice by the NFL to protect players, staff, fans, and others who were attending the game. Many fans still showed up to support their team and it was honestly just magical watching fans overcome the adversity. LA channeled their fandom by performing well both offensively and defensively. I was impressed with LA’s defense in particular, by ending the game with 9 total sacks on Vikings QB Sam Darnold. Overall, the Rams really impressed me and made me wonder how tough they’ll be in their next game, which will be against the Eagles
Predictions for the Divisional Round: Up first for Texans at Chiefs, I have a feeling the Chiefs will win. Even though they’ve had about three weeks to rest their starters, I don’t have much confidence in the Texans while they’re on the road. Next Commanders and Lions. The Commanders have been impressive, but ultimately the Lions are going to be strong coming off the bye-week. While I could see it go either way, the Lions are my pick to win. Rams at Eagles is a game I think the Rams could win. After strongly coming off that win from the Vikings, I believe they’re secretly a difficult team to beat. Both are very strong teams but the Rams could certainly come out on top. Then, Baltimore at Buffalo. This game has me very nervous, but truly excited due to a mashup of current MVP favorites. Both faced off earlier in the season, but I think the outcome will change due to Josh Allen’s hand being healed, Buffalo’s defense also being healthy, and due to them being in Orchard Park. Overall, Buffalo could take that game.
Conclusion: Overall, I’m looking forward to next week, since many good teams will be facing off with each other. I’m expecting more close games as we get closer to the Super Bowl. The next round of the NFL playoffs begin this Saturday at 4:30.
