The NFL playoff bracket is finally set, and I’m diving in with my absolutely guaranteed, 100% accurate predictions. Be ready for some bold takes—my Super Bowl pick might shock you. Let’s get started with the Wild Card Round.
Chargers @ Texans
How unusual is it that every time the Texans make the Wild Card round, they play the Saturday 3:30 game? However, this year’s team has been all over the place. Sure, they’ve secured a home game, but their recent performances inspire little confidence. Losses to the Jets, Titans, and a humiliating 31-2 defeat against the Ravens showcase their inconsistency.
Meanwhile, Jim Harbaugh’s Chargers have outperformed expectations this season. Justin Herbert has been electric, their defense has been rock-solid, and J.K. Dobbins is healthy and back in top form.
Unless the Texans play the game of their lives, the Chargers’ consistency and toughness should carry them through. My pick: Chargers advance.
Steelers @ Ravens
A classic AFC North clash! The Steelers limp into the postseason on a four-game losing streak, with an offense that’s hit a brick wall under Arthur Smith. On the other hand, the Ravens are surging, highlighted by a commanding 31-2 win over the Texans two weeks ago.
With Derrick Henry bulldozing through defenses and Lamar Jackson playing MVP-caliber football, the Ravens are set up for success. The Steelers simply aren’t playing at the level they need to compete. My pick: Ravens win comfortably.
Broncos @ Bills
Credit to Sean Payton and rookie QB Bo Nix for leading the Broncos to 10 wins—it’s been an incredible story. But this is Buffalo we’re talking about. Despite concerns over a thin receiver corps, Josh Allen’s MVP-worthy season has elevated the Bills to elite status.
The Broncos’ only playoff-worthy win was against the Buccaneers back in Week 1. Against a dominant Bills squad at home, they’ll be outmatched. My pick: Bills advance.
Packers @ Eagles
This is the most evenly matched Wild Card game. The Packers, despite their No. 7 seed, have looked better than most teams down the stretch, while the Eagles have won 12 of their last 13 games. Jalen Hurts returning after a few weeks off could be rusty, which gives me pause.
Jordan Love has struggled to ignite Green Bay’s passing game lately, but the offense behind Josh Jacobs has remained formidable. This is a gamble, but I’m picking the Packers for the upset. My pick: Packers shock the Eagles.
Commanders @ Buccaneers
Washington has been on fire, winning five straight to finish the season. Jayden Daniels has shown promise as QB1, while their defense has been a revelation under Dan Quinn. However, Tampa Bay’s ceiling remains sky-high when Baker Mayfield is on his game.
While Washington might be able to challenge Tampa, home-field advantage and Mayfield’s play will likely push the Buccaneers over the edge. My pick: Buccaneers win.
Vikings @ Rams
The Vikings have had a remarkable season with Sam Darnold, but they face a battle-tested Rams team led by Sean McVay and Matthew Stafford. The Rams have shown they can rise to the occasion, even with a roster full of backups.
Consistency will be key, and Darnold’s unpredictable play could spell trouble. I’m giving this one to Los Angeles. My pick: Rams advance.
Related: Super Bowl Winners: Scores, Location, Date/Year
Divisional Round Highlights
- Chargers @ Chiefs: The Chiefs have been playing with fire in close games, but their playoff pedigree makes them nearly unbeatable at Arrowhead. My pick: Chiefs advance.
- Ravens @ Bills: In a cold-weather slugfest, the Ravens’ dominant run game featuring Derrick Henry gives them the edge. My pick: Ravens win.
NFC Showdowns
- Packers @ Lions: The Lions have already beaten the Packers twice this year. Detroit is clicking on all cylinders and won’t stumble again. My pick: Lions win.
- Rams @ Buccaneers: As thrilling as a Stafford-Mayfield duel might be, Tampa Bay playing their A-game gives them the slight edge. My pick: Buccaneers advance.
Conference Championships
- Ravens @ Chiefs: Kansas City’s razor-thin margin of victory throughout the season finally catches up to them. The Ravens pound the rock with Henry and upset the Chiefs. My pick: Ravens to the Super Bowl.
- Buccaneers @ Lions: The Lions clinch their first-ever Super Bowl berth. They’ve learned from last year’s heartbreak and are ready to make history. My pick: Lions to the Super Bowl.
Super Bowl Prediction
Baltimore Ravens vs. Detroit Lions. Both teams have inspiring narratives, but the Ravens’ running game and physicality give them the ultimate edge.
Super Bowl Champions: Baltimore Ravens.
Let me know in the comments how wrong you think I am! And don’t forget to share your Super Bowl predictions below.