NFL Wild Card Recap & Divisional Round Predictions

The NFL Wild Card weekend delivered all the drama, surprises, and storylines fans could hope for. The Minnesota Vikings, despite a stellar 14-win season, were shockingly trampled by the surging Rams, while the Texans put on a masterclass, dominating in all three phases of the game. The Bills and Ravens cruised through their matchups, setting up a highly anticipated showdown in the Divisional Round. Meanwhile, the Eagles’ offense sputtered in an ugly win over Green Bay, raising concerns heading into tougher competition. And for the first time in 20 years, the Washington Commanders emerged victorious in a playoff game, giving their fans a long-awaited reason to celebrate.

Washington Wins First Playoff Game in 20 Years

The Washington Commanders ended their 20-year playoff drought in thrilling fashion, defeating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-20 on the road thanks to a Zane Gonzalez FG as time expired. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels shined under the bright lights, completing 24 of 35 passes for 268 yards and 2 touchdowns. Key contributions from Dyami Brown and Terry McLaurin powered Washington's offense, but the true star of the game was the Commanders' defense. They held Tampa Bay’s high-powered offense to under 200 passing yards and less than 100 rushing yards, a stunning feat given the challenge. Daniels’ impressive rookie season continues as he prepares to lead Washington into Detroit to face the top-seeded Lions at Ford Field. If the Commanders can pull it off, they are only one win from reaching the Super Bowl, a statement I never thought I would ever read.

Prediction: Lions - 31 Commanders - 26

The Vikings Prove they are Frauds ; Rams Look Scary

Once again, the Minnesota Vikings have an outstanding regular season, only to lose in the first round of the playoffs. That is nothing new for the SKOL.

The Minnesota Vikings have a tough decision ahead, but it’s clear: they should let Sam Darnold walk in free agency. Once again, Darnold crumbled under pressure, looking like the New York Jets version of himself in back-to-back weeks. Missing open throws, mistiming passes, and appearing visibly rattled, Darnold’s performance in another big game leaves little justification for a hefty contract. While some desperate team may offer him $30M a year, he’s just not worth it. Darnold is the ideal bridge quarterback, but the Vikings can use that money to make meaningful upgrades elsewhere. It’s time to hand the keys to JJ McCarthy and see what the young quarterback can bring to the table.

As for the Vikings, their 14-win season came to a humiliating end as the Los Angeles Rams dominated in every phase of the game. Matthew Stafford and the Rams' offense looked like their Super Bowl-winning selves, while their defense smothered Darnold, racking up an astounding 9 sacks. For most quarterbacks (except Joe Burrow), that’s more than enough to derail any game. Next week, the Eagles face a massive challenge with this red-hot Rams team that has lost just once since Week 12. Don’t be surprised if the Rams pull off the upset in Philly. With Stafford potentially heading back to Detroit for a shot at the Super Bowl, the storyline writes itself. This Rams team is peaking at just the right time.

Prediction: Rams - 24 Eagles - 20

Texans Dominate, Arrowhead Up Next.

The Houston Texans delivered a statement victory, dominating the Los Angeles Chargers 32-12 in all three phases of the game. Justin Herbert, who had only thrown three interceptions all season, was picked off four (!) times—a career-high. Herbert’s playoff struggles continue, as his two postseason appearances now include blowing a 28-0 lead to the Jaguars in 2022 and this humbling defeat. The Texans’ defensive line manhandled the Chargers’ highly-touted offensive line, making one of the league’s best units look overmatched. With relentless pressure, Houston’s defense set the tone early and never let up.

On the other side of the ball, QB CJ Stroud finally found his rhythm, throwing for nearly 300 yards and a touchdown to lead the Texans’ offense. While Houston’s defense was dominant, the challenge only gets tougher next week as they face Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs at Arrowhead. Though it’s hard to imagine the Texans replicating their defensive dominance, sustained pressure can disrupt even the best quarterbacks. Add in a kickoff temperature around 20 degrees, and history doesn’t favor Houston in cold-weather games. Expect the Chiefs to roll, but if the Texans’ defense can make it interesting, Mahomes might have his work cut out for him.

Prediction: Chiefs - 27 Texans - 21

Game of the Year Candidate

Here we go, the best playoff matchup so far this year. Star QB versus Star QB, MVP versus MVP, it doesn't get better than this. After falling behind 7-3 early, the Buffalo Bills flipped the script and dominated the Denver Broncos in a commanding performance. The Bills’ defense slammed the door shut after Denver’s lone scoring drive, holding the Broncos to a paltry 224 yards of total offense—most of it coming on that single possession. Buffalo’s relentless pressure and airtight coverage completely stifled the Broncos, setting the stage for an impressive playoff statement.

Next week, however, presents an entirely new challenge as the Bills prepare to face Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry. In their lone matchup this season, Baltimore crushed Buffalo 35-10, but this time will be different. With the Bills Mafia in full force at home, the crowd will undoubtedly play a role in shaking the Ravens’ composure. Josh Allen is primed to prove he’s the real MVP, leading Buffalo to a hard-fought win and earning a trip to Kansas City for another high-stakes playoff showdown, and a trip to the Super Bowl on the line.