Forecaster Frank Wild Card Round Preview: Can the Dolphins Get a Miracle
Saturday
SF -9.5 (o/u 42.5)
49ers 23 Seahawks 10
The Seahawks got into the playoffs with the Packers' loss and find a familiar foe in the 49ers. The Niners won both matchups in the regular season. San Francisco ended the season with a ten-game winning streak and has the best defense in the NFL. It is hard to imagine the Seahawks winning this game, though they could keep it close for three quarters.
LAC -2.5 (o/u 47.5)
Chargers 27 Jaguars 23
The Jaguars had a remarkable turnaround from NFL worst to playoffs, as they catapulted to an AFC South title. The Jaguars ended the season on a five-game winning streak and beat the Chargers in Week 3. That game saw Justin Herbert playing hurt. Herbert finished the season strong, which should give the Chargers the advantage to get the win in Jacksonville.
Sunday
Buf -13 (o/u 43.5)
Bills 47 Dolphins 10
The Dolphins and Bills split the two games they played this season, with Miami winning in the heat, as the Bills suffered heat fatigue, while the Bills won on a walk-off field goal in the snow in December. Tua Tagovailoa played in both games and played well, but now he is out with the lingering effects of a concussion that he first suffered in the first game against Buffalo. This one could be ugly, as the Bills will also be given an emotional jolt with Damar Hamlin out of the hospital. PAIN
NYG +3 (o/u 48)
Giants 23 Vikings 20
These teams met three weeks ago, with the Vikings winning on a walk-off field goal. Now the Vikings, who are the screwiest 13-win team in NFL history with a negative point differential, face the playoffs, where Kirk Cousins has often struggled. This game has upset written all over it.
Cin -10 (o/u 40.5)
Bengals 34 Ravens 16
This would be a difficult game for the Ravens to win if they had a healthy Lamar Jackson. Jackson has missed the last five games and is doubtful to play. The Bengals ended the season strong and looked poised for another Super Bowl run.
Monday
TB +2.5 (o/u 46)
Buccaneers 20 Cowboys 17
Perhaps the most intriguing matchup of the week. It is Tom Brady, in what could be his final game against a Cowboys team that is capable of going on a long run. The Buccaneers started the season with a win in Dallas. Dak Prescott was injured in the game. As the season closed, Prescott was struggling, add in Brady's ability to win games, late and the stage is set for the upset.