RADIO
8. Houston Texans
Kansas City, Buffalo, Baltimore…and Houston? The Texans surprised many by defeating the Los Angeles Chargers (with ease) and advancing to the Divisional round. But there’s a sizable gap between the other three surviving AFC teams and C.J. Stroud’s squad.
7. Washington Commanders
Jayden Daniels was unflappable as he led a game-winning drive and watched Zane Gonzalez’s field goal attempt doink through the goalposts. While he may not be scared about what’s next, the Lions are a far tougher test than the Buccaneers.
6. Los Angeles Rams
The Los Angeles Rams enacted a perfect gameplan: Attack Minnesota’s weaker secondary and put pressure on Sam Darnold. The Vikings quarterback crumbled and the Rams rolled to a victory.
They’ll travel to Philadelphia next round. The Eagles defeated the Rams by 17 in Los Angeles in Week 12.
5. Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens were one shy of 300 rushing yards against the Pittsburgh defense on Saturday. If they could replicate that game plan every week, they would. A battle of the two MVP candidates (Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen) awaits.
4. Philadelphia Eagles
Jalen Hurts’ passing game is still slightly off. Losing linebacker Nakobe Dean hurts the defense. Still, the Eagles are one of the most complete football teams and have just as good of a chance to reach the Super Bowl as other NFC contenders.
3. Kansas City Chiefs
Are there concerns about the Chiefs being too well-rested? Patrick Mahomes and other stars sat out Week 18 and then had a bye in the opening round of the playoffs. It would be of more concern if Kansas City were matched against Baltimore or Buffalo.
2. Buffalo Bills
The Buffalo Bills added to their perfect home record this season when they blew out the Denver Broncos in the Wild Card round. Picking up the 10th home victory won’t be an easy feat. The Baltimore Ravens are favored in the Divisional matchup.
1. Detroit Lions
The two-loss Detroit Lions earned the right to host all their playoff games (as long as they keep winning). That helps make them more than a touchdown favorite against the Washington Commanders.
