Orchard Park, New York – After a thrilling regular season, the NFL playoffs are finally here. Fourteen teams remain in the hunt for the Lombardi Trophy, and they will go head-to-head in a series of exciting matchups during Super Wild Card Weekend. This opening slate is filled with reunions and intriguing storylines that will captivate fans across the nation.
One of the most fascinating games involves Matthew Stafford, the former Detroit Lions quarterback who will return to face his old team as a member of the Los Angeles Rams. Another reunion will take place when Tyreek Hill visits Kansas City as part of the Pittsburgh Steelers. Additionally, Mike McCarthy, the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys, will face his former team, the Green Bay Packers.
With so many compelling narratives, we have ranked every game and provided all the information you need to watch them. Let’s dive into the matchups.
In the Buffalo Bills vs. Pittsburgh Steelers game, the Bills are the clear favorites with a double-digit spread. Buffalo has been dominant at home, boasting an average margin of victory of 14.8 points at Highmark Stadium, the second-best in the NFL. The absence of the Steelers’ star pass rusher, T.J. Watt, due to injury further diminishes their chances of a competitive showing.
The Philadelphia Eagles vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers matchup could potentially produce an upset. The Eagles, despite their recent struggles, are still a three-point road favorite. The defending NFC champions, the Buccaneers, finished the regular season strong, winning five of their last six games. Quarterback Baker Mayfield and wide receiver Mike Evans have the potential to exploit the Eagles’ vulnerable secondary, adding to the excitement surrounding this game.
The game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Miami Dolphins presents an intriguing storyline. The Chiefs, known for their explosive offense, will face off against a Dolphins team that is known for its strong defense. The outcome of this game will undoubtedly fuel offseason narratives, especially regarding Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s performance and his status as an elite NFL quarterback.
The Dallas Cowboys vs. San Francisco 49ers matchup is notable because of the presence of Cowboys head coach Mike McCarthy. McCarthy, facing his former team, finds himself under scrutiny as the Cowboys have consistently underperformed in the playoffs despite strong regular season records. A disappointing showing in this game might put McCarthy’s job in jeopardy, especially with high-profile coaching candidates like Bill Belichick potentially available.
Finally, the Detroit Lions vs. Los Angeles Rams game will be the most anticipated matchup of the weekend. The Lions finally have a home playoff game, and it features the return of their former quarterback, Matthew Stafford. Stafford, now leading the Rams, will face the Lions for the first time since the trade. The emotions and pressure surrounding this game make it a must-watch.
As the NFL playoffs kick off, football fans are in for a treat. Super Wild Card Weekend promises to be filled with exciting matchups and compelling storylines. Get ready for a weekend of intense competition and thrilling football as the race for the Lombardi Trophy begins.
(Note: This article is written in AP News Style and contains no quotes or references to any specific news organization.)