Here are my takes on this week's Wild Card Round NFL matchups.
The Rams, who have the talent and depth to dominate, should be able to take down their Panthers foes. While the Panthers had a strong outing in Week 13 when they ran it 40 times for 164 yards and Bryce Young completed 15 of 20 passes for 206 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions, I still think they can't replicate that success.
The Packers, meanwhile, are looking to make some noise in the playoffs but I believe their injury-plagued roster is going to hold them back. With Parsons, Kraft, Jenkins, and Wyatt all out, it's hard to see how they'll be able to contain Jalen Watson. The Bears have the league's best turnover differential, which will help them secure a crucial victory.
I'm also not putting my money on the Bills in this one. They're an unimpressive team that might just rely on their rushing attack. On the other hand, the Jaguars are looking hot and have won eight straight games with a plus 153 point differential during those contests. I think they'll be able to take down Buffalo.
Lastly, the 49ers should be able to handle their Eagles counterparts but will likely struggle to contain the pace of this game. I'm picking Philadelphia here too.
In the end, I have faith that Houston's defense can keep things close in this matchup against Pittsburgh, and I think the Texans are due for a win after being under the radar for so long.
My survivor pick is simple: just go with the Rams.
The Rams, who have the talent and depth to dominate, should be able to take down their Panthers foes. While the Panthers had a strong outing in Week 13 when they ran it 40 times for 164 yards and Bryce Young completed 15 of 20 passes for 206 yards, three touchdowns, and zero interceptions, I still think they can't replicate that success.
The Packers, meanwhile, are looking to make some noise in the playoffs but I believe their injury-plagued roster is going to hold them back. With Parsons, Kraft, Jenkins, and Wyatt all out, it's hard to see how they'll be able to contain Jalen Watson. The Bears have the league's best turnover differential, which will help them secure a crucial victory.
I'm also not putting my money on the Bills in this one. They're an unimpressive team that might just rely on their rushing attack. On the other hand, the Jaguars are looking hot and have won eight straight games with a plus 153 point differential during those contests. I think they'll be able to take down Buffalo.
Lastly, the 49ers should be able to handle their Eagles counterparts but will likely struggle to contain the pace of this game. I'm picking Philadelphia here too.
In the end, I have faith that Houston's defense can keep things close in this matchup against Pittsburgh, and I think the Texans are due for a win after being under the radar for so long.
My survivor pick is simple: just go with the Rams.