The NFL Divisional Round is here, and the stakes couldn’t be higher as eight teams battle for a spot in their respective conference championship games. These matchups feature the league’s best teams, rising stars, and proven veterans.
As a PPH bookie, this is the perfect opportunity to capitalize on one of the most exciting weekends in football. If you’re not already running a sportsbook with WagerHome, now is the time to start offering the best betting experience for your players.
Let’s dive into the preview and predictions for each game in this critical round.
(1) Kansas City Chiefs vs. (4) Houston Texans
The Chiefs are rested and ready, coming off a bye week as the AFC’s top seed. Patrick Mahomes has never lost in the divisional round, sporting a perfect 6-0 record. Kansas City defeated Houston 27-19 in Week 16, showcasing their ability to dominate when it matters most. Andy Reid’s teams have been historically strong after a bye, and this game is no exception.
The Texans pulled off a surprising win against the Chargers in the Wild Card round, thanks to their relentless pass rush. Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter were game-changers, and Derek Stingley Jr. added two interceptions. However, Houston’s offense remains inconsistent, especially without star receiver Stefon Diggs, who has been sidelined since Week 8.
Prediction: The Chiefs’ offense, led by the return of Marquise Brown, will exploit Houston’s secondary. Kansas City’s defense, led by Chris Jones, will pressure C.J. Stroud and force mistakes. Expect the Chiefs to control the game and advance.
(2) Buffalo Bills vs. (3) Baltimore Ravens
This matchup features two MVP-caliber quarterbacks in Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson. The Ravens crushed the Bills 35-10 in Week 4, but Buffalo has improved since then. Their defense held Denver to just two third-down conversions in the Wild Card round, while Allen delivered with both his arm and legs.
The Ravens, on the other hand, rely on a dominant ground game led by Jackson and Derrick Henry. Baltimore’s defense has been nearly impenetrable since Week 11, ranking first in EPA allowed per play. They’ll need a complete effort to contain Allen and the Bills’ dynamic offense.
Prediction: Baltimore’s rushing attack will keep the game close, but Buffalo’s ability to make big plays in key moments gives them the edge. Allen’s versatility and the Bills’ strong offensive line will prove too much for the Ravens.
(1) Detroit Lions vs. (6) Washington Commanders
The Lions are riding high after a stellar regular season and a first-round bye. Detroit’s offense, led by Jared Goff and a potent rushing duo in Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery, has been one of the league’s best all year. Their defense is getting healthier, with key players like Alex Anzalone back in the lineup.
Washington’s rookie quarterback, Jayden Daniels, has shown remarkable poise, leading the Commanders to a shocking Wild Card win over Tampa Bay. However, Detroit’s defensive front poses a significant challenge, especially against a Washington offensive line that has struggled at times.
Prediction: Detroit’s balanced attack and physicality will be too much for Washington to handle. While Daniels will make some plays, the Lions’ offense will dominate time of possession and wear down the Commanders’ defense.
(2) Philadelphia Eagles vs. (4) Los Angeles Rams
The Eagles have leaned on their defense all season, and they’ll need another strong performance to contain Matthew Stafford and the Rams. Philadelphia’s offense has been inconsistent, but Saquon Barkley provides a steady rushing attack that can keep the Rams’ defense on its heels.
The Rams’ defense has improved significantly since their early-season struggles. Rookie defensive end Jared Verse leads a pass rush that could disrupt Jalen Hurts, especially if the Eagles’ offensive line can’t hold up.
Prediction: The Eagles’ defensive front will pressure Stafford and force mistakes. Barkley will control the game on the ground, helping Philadelphia grind out a hard-fought win.
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