The NFL’s Wild Card Weekend did not disappoint, especially with the NFC matchups. Both the Eagles and Cowboys were eliminated, setting up an unexpected divisional round.
Below we are breaking down both NFC matchups this weekend. We will give you everything you need to wager on the games and win big at NFL betting sites this weekend.
Packers Preview
Nobody expected the Green Bay Packers to be playing this weekend, but they punched their ticket after a stunning 48-32 win against the Cowboys in the Wild Card Round. The final score makes the game look closer than it was, with the Packers dominating from the opening whistle. They have now won seven of their last nine games heading into Sunday.
The Packers offense has grown into a great unit, but this game will come down to their defense. The secondary is very good but may be without star cornerback Jaire Alexander. If he doesn’t play, this game could get ugly. The Packers will need their secondary to play at a high level to help cover for their 29th ranked run defense, who will have their hands full with Christian McCaffrey coming to town.
49ers Preview
The Niners are the most talented team in the NFL, leading them to the NFC’s top seed. After a three-game losing streak made some experts question this team, they rallied to win six straight and take over the NFC lead. They were one a bye last week and most of the starters were rested in Week 18, meaning they have not played since New Year’s Eve.
There aren’t really weaknesses for this team, but there are some questions around Brock Purdy. He can be great at leading this offense, but we have seen some pass rushes throw him off and make him look like the seventh-round draft pick he was. The Packers pass rush has been very good, and they are supported by an aggressive secondary. If Alexander is healthy for the Packers, Purdy’s play will determine who wins this game.
Buccaneers Preview
The Buccaneers advanced after blowing out the Eagles 32-9 in Philadelphia in the Wild Card Round. The Eagles had been injured and trending in the wrong direction, but a road playoff win against the reigning NFC champs is still impressive. After starting the season 47, the Bucs rallied to win five of their final six games to secure the NFC South title and trip to the playoffs.
The key for Tampa this weekend will be Baker Mayfield and their pass attack. The Lions defense has been vulnerable to good passing games this season, and few have been better than the Bucs over there last few weeks. Mayfield had 337 yards and three touchdowns in last week’s win, with a passer rating of 119.8.
If the Lions can’t stop him from connecting with Mike Evans and the rest of the receiving corps, it could lead to a Tampa win.
Lions Preview
The Lions had their fans in tears on Sunday as they held off a Matthew Stafford and a good Rams team to win their first playoff game in 32 years. The team looked great against a Rams team that many people thought could make a run in the playoffs. The win was the first time they beat a team that finished with a record above .500 since they beat Tampa in Week 6.
There are a lot of factors to consider in this game, but the most important will be Detroit’s mindset. Getting their first playoff win was celebrated like a championship, with tears and hugs being shared with players and fans. It was an incredible moment, but will they be able to refocus for this week? It’s not an easy task for any team, especially when going from lovable underdog to Super Bowl favorite.
Michael is an avid sports fan and a veteran bettor from Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He learned the trade from his grandfather in Las Vegas as a kid. As an adult, Michael started picking games for a small sports betting site and has built it into a career. His experience allows him to provide tips and information to help other bettors improve their game. Michael cheers for all Wisconsin pro teams, the Arizona State Sun Devils (his alma mater), and the Ottawa Senators. He specializes in baseball betting but has extensive experience in football, basketball, and hockey. When he isn’t pouring over stats, he’s spending time with his two young children or hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
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