NFL Playoff Predictions: Upsets Shake Up NFC, AFC Favorites Stand Firm in Wild Card Weekend

The regular season is behind us, and it’s time for the high-stakes drama of the NFL playoffs! With excitement in the air, fans across the nation are gearing up for what promises to be an electric postseason filled with nail-biting matchups and thrilling moments.

Let’s recount the highlights from last week: I managed an 8-7-1 record against the spread to wrap up the regular season at 128-138-6, and a strong 13-3 straight up, finishing the season at 178-94-0. Now, as the playoffs begin, there’s a glimmer of hope that I can turn things around and finish strong. Here are my picks for an action-packed Wild Card Weekend:

Los Angeles Chargers (-3) at Houston Texans

*Saturday, 4:30 p.m. ET (CBS, Paramount+)* The potent Chargers offense, led by Justin Herbert who is eager to secure his first playoff victory, faces off against a Texans team that hasn’t met expectations, particularly with rookie quarterback C.J. Stroud. The Chargers' elite defense poses a challenge, and I believe Herbert will rise to the occasion, leading his team to victory.

**Prediction:** Chargers 27, Texans 20

Pittsburgh Steelers (+9.5) at Baltimore Ravens

*Saturday, 8 p.m. ET (Amazon Prime)* The Ravens enter the playoffs on a high note, while the Steelers look to snap a four-game losing streak. Despite their struggles, Pittsburgh is no stranger to playoff intensity, especially in division rivalries. Expect a hard-fought game, but I see the Ravens emerging victorious.

**Prediction:** Ravens 24, Steelers 19

Denver Broncos (+9) at Buffalo Bills

*Sunday, 1 p.m. ET (CBS, Paramount+)* The Broncos unexpectedly made it to the playoffs, led by a solid defense. However, they face a tough task against the powerful Bills and their star quarterback, Josh Allen. The unfamiliar playoff atmosphere in Buffalo could be daunting for Denver quarterback Bo Nix. I anticipate a close game but foresee Allen and the Bills taking the win.

**Prediction:** Bills 23, Broncos 16

Green Bay Packers (+4.5) at Philadelphia Eagles

*Sunday, 4:30 p.m. ET (Fox, fubo try for free)* With both quarterbacks nursing injuries, the outcome of this game hangs in the balance. Jalen Hurts will look to shake off rust after a period of inactivity, while Jordan Love aims to prove himself in this crucial playoff matchup. I’m betting on an upset here as Love leads the Packers to a surprise win over the Eagles.

**Prediction:** Packers 23, Eagles 20

Washington Commanders at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (-3)

*Sunday, 8 p.m. ET (NBC, fubo try for free)* Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels makes his playoff debut for Washington against a Tampa Bay squad that can score in bunches despite having a few key players banged up. Expect a score-heavy affair, with the Bucs benefiting from both strong offensive play and timely defensive moments.

**Prediction:** Buccaneers 35, Commanders 30

Minnesota Vikings (-1.5) at Los Angeles Rams (+1.5)