The divisional round of the NFL playoffs is underway, and the stage is set for some exciting matchups as eight teams remain in the hunt for the Lombardi Trophy. The No. 1 seeds have entered the fray after their bye week, bringing even more talent to the table. This weekend, fans can look forward to thrilling quarterback duels, with Patrick Mahomes facing Josh Allen in his first-ever road playoff game on Sunday night. The action is sure to be intense, and you won’t want to miss a second of it.
To help you navigate the divisional round, we have gathered all the best picks and gambling content from CBS Sports and SportsLine. Our CBS Sports experts will provide picks against the spread, along with additional feature content for each game. The SportsLine Projection Model, which has a stellar track record, will also offer its insights and best bets. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or a casual fan, we’ve got you covered.
The first matchup features the Texans taking on the Ravens. CBS Sports NFL expert Mike Tierney, who has covered the league for decades, has an impressive record when it comes to picks involving the Ravens. He leans towards the point total going over, but you’ll need to check out SportsLine for his spread pick.
However, not everyone is convinced of the Ravens’ dominance. CBS Sports NFL writer John Breech expresses his doubts about the team’s playoff performance and believes that the Texans, led by quarterback C.J. Stroud, have the potential to pull off an upset. Breech predicts the Texans will come out on top with a score of 23-20.
In the Packers versus 49ers matchup, Senior NFL Analyst Pete Prisco sees the Packers as the underdogs who have the potential to surprise. Prisco highlights Green Bay’s impressive offensive line and the strong performance of quarterback Jordan Love in recent weeks. He predicts a high-scoring game with the Packers pulling off the upset.
On the other hand, Senior Analyst R.J. White from SportsLine is leaning towards the point total going over. He sees a tough test ahead for Love facing the 49ers’ formidable defense, but also acknowledges the strength of the Packers’ offensive line. To see his spread pick, head over to SportsLine.
The Buccaneers will face the Lions in another intriguing matchup. NFL writer Tyler Sullivan believes the Lions have the home advantage and the momentum from their first playoff victory since 1991. Sullivan points to the Lions’ stellar defense and their ability to stifle opponents in the red zone. He sees the Lions covering the spread in what promises to be a closely contested game.
However, NFL writer Jordan Dajani has faith in the Buccaneers to cover the spread. He acknowledges the Bucs’ success on the road this season and their ability to score points. Dajani also highlights the issues in the Lions’ kicking game and believes that the Bucs will prevail in a close game.
The Chiefs and Bills will face off in a highly anticipated showdown. Will Brinson from the Pick Six Podcast predicts a nail-biting game between two of the AFC’s top teams. He sees the Bills coming out on top in their home turf, considering their impressive defense and the pressure on quarterback Patrick Mahomes in his first true road playoff game.
Meanwhile, Senior Analyst Larry Hartstein from SportsLine has had success in betting on Chiefs games. He predicts the point total will go under and offers a strong opinion on the spread, which you can find on SportsLine.
However, NFL writer Tyler Sullivan believes in the Chiefs’ playoff success and believes they have what it takes to win against the Bills. He credits the Chiefs’ strong defense and the smart play of Mahomes. Despite playing on the road, Sullivan expects the Chiefs to come out on top in a close game.
Lastly, NFL writer John Breech believes that the Bills have what it takes to defeat the Chiefs. He notes the Bills’ consistent success against the Chiefs in regular season matchups and believes that their defense is built to neutralize the Chiefs’ strengths. Breech predicts a victory for the Bills, with the home crowd making a significant impact in the game.
As the divisional round unfolds, these predictions and insights will guide fans and bettors alike. Whether you agree or have your own opinions, the excitement of the playoffs is sure to deliver thrilling games and unexpected outcomes. Enjoy the weekend and may the best teams emerge victorious.