Lance's Wildcard Predictions

Wildcard weekend has arrived! There’s just six games and here’s my take on how I think they’ll go:

Regular Season Record: 162-93-1

Indianapolis over Buffalo

Buffalo drew the short straw. If I were them I would have been hoping for a Houston upset of Tennessee in week 17, or a Pittsburgh win over Cleveland so they could take on Miami again. Instead they have to face the Colts who are potentially the most well-rounded team entering the playoffs. They have one of the best defenses this season, their running game is heating up, and T.Y. Hilton has returned to the spotlight. The weakest point on the team is under Center, but Rivers is a veteran who has found himself in this spot multiple times in his lengthy career. I like the Colts to win a close one.

Seattle over LA Rams

If Goff plays and IF he’s at 100%, then the Rams have a serious shot at taking down Seattle. That second part is a big if though, which is why I’ve got Wilson and company escaping with a win.

Tampa Bay over Washington

I want to have the gut to go ahead and pick Washington. I want to believe in the recent success of 7 and 8 win teams that have made the playoffs and pulled out first-round upsets. I just can’t trust their offense, especially when they’ve entered Brady’s domain.

Baltimore over Tennessee

Revenge game for the Ravens. The big difference this time, the real reason why I’m going with Baltimore (other than the fact that they’re on a roll), is Tennessee’s defense. That unit has been getting worse as the season has gone on. Jackson, Dobbins, Andrews and Brown are about to light them up.

New Orleans over Chicago

The Bears played the Saints tough when they met back in week 8, forcing OT and losing by a Field Goal. I’m sticking with the Saints to pull it off head to head because the Saints have Brees while the Bears have Trubisky, but if you’re placing bets I’d take Chicago and the points.

Pittsburgh over Cleveland

I was going to take Pittsburgh before it was announced that a good chunk of Cleveland’s coaching staff will miss the game thanks to COVID, that news just affirmed my decision. Cleveland has had a hard time playing at Pittsburgh, and their win in week 17 was by 2 points, came down to the final drive, and came against Pitt’s QB2. Sorry Browns fans, I don’t see your team lasting into next week.