NFL Divisional Round Predictions > January 20th & 21st

[harry_rag]

Here we go with what I guess you'd call the quarter finals in "English money"!

[MinellaWorksop]

Will be doing the odds boosted bet builder as usual at the weekend, though I feel these playoff games are a lot tougher to get an angle on.

Here are my thoughts and musings on the upcoming games:

Baltimore Ravens vs Houston Texans

The number one seed Ravens have done what they said they wouldn't do. A few seasons ago they were the number one seed, looking on hot form and therefore in their last regular season game rested QB Lamar Jackson. He lost his playing rhythm having nearly 3 weeks rest and the Ravens were eliminated in the playoffs at first asking. Fast forward to this weekend and they have done exactly the same thing. Therefore although they 'should' win I can't be backing them at such short odds.

San Francisco 49ers vs Green Bay Packers

Similar sentiments though to a lesser degree apply to the 49ers. QB Brock Purdy will have not played for nearly 3 weeks when suiting up against the hot I'm form Packers. That said, Purdy was carrying a few knocks as was Star running back Christian McCaffrey so I think the extra rest of being number one seed will play to their advantage on this occasion.

Detroit Lions vs Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Lions were not convincing for me against the Rams but that said, got the job done. The Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield is playing some of his best stuff these last month or so but is nursing rib and ankle injuries so it remains to be seen how he compete at optimum level while handling these knocks and strains. This game could go any which way.

 

Buffalo Bills vs Kansas City Chiefs

The Bills are on hot form and had to be just to even make the playoffs. And as outstanding a QB Josh Allen is, in the clutch play matches and moments he has a not very impressive losing record when the going gets tough, I really hope he proves me wrong as his talent deserves a chance at Super Bowl glory. The Chiefs though, will have to overcome not having their usual number one seed home advantage that they often have when succeeding in the playoffs and what an away trip to have playing in front of a raucous Bills Mafia crowd. Again, this game could go any which way.