2024 NFL Wild-Card Round: Everything You Need to Know
The 2024 NFL wild-card round is here, and it promises an action-packed weekend with six must-watch matchups. From divisional showdowns to intriguing underdog stories, this slate offers something for every football fan. Here’s your ultimate guide to the weekend’s games.
Key Matchups and Bold Predictions
NFL Nation reporters have identified the biggest keys to each of the six games. From quarterback duels to defensive battles, the weekend features high-stakes moments that could define the postseason. Analytics writer Seth Walder has also made bold predictions for every matchup, providing insights into potential upsets and standout performances. Could a wild-card team make a deep playoff run? Walder thinks it’s possible.
X Factors to Watch
NFL analyst Matt Bowen has highlighted key matchup X factors for every game. Whether it’s a star wide receiver against a lockdown corner or a pass-rusher trying to disrupt an elite quarterback, these individual battles could tip the scales. Keep an eye on players stepping up in the clutch.
Officiating Storylines
Kevin Seifert offers insights into the officiating crews for each game and how they might influence the action. From penalty tendencies to game management styles, knowing what to expect from the officials can provide an added layer of understanding for fans.
Big Stats and Betting Nuggets
The ESPN Research team has delivered a key stat to know for every game, alongside a betting nugget for fans looking to place wagers. With close matchups expected across the board, these insights could prove valuable for those analyzing the games.
Game Projections and Score Predictions
The Football Power Index (FPI) breaks down each game with a statistical projection, offering fans a glimpse into the numbers behind the matchups. Additionally, analysts Kalyn Kahler, Eric Moody, and Seth Walder provide their final score predictions for all six games, offering diverse perspectives on how the weekend might unfold.
Highlighted Matchups
Packers at Eagles
The Packers finished with their highest defensive ranking (fifth) since their Super Bowl-winning season of 2010, but they’ve had trouble with Eagles running back Saquon Barkley. Including the 2024 season opener, Barkley has three straight games against the Packers with at least 100 scrimmage yards and a touchdown. On the other side, Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is expected to return from concussion protocol. However, slow starts have plagued the Eagles this season, and they’ll need to get into rhythm early against a Packers defense allowing just 19.9 points per game.
Commanders at Buccaneers
Washington’s defense has significantly improved since the start of the season, ranking 12th in scoring from Weeks 4 through 18. However, the Buccaneers’ offense, led by rookie running back Bucky Irving, has been dominant in recent weeks, ranking second in rushing yards per game. Quarterback Jayden Daniels’ mobility could also test the Commanders’ defense, which ranks 30th against the run.
Vikings at Rams
This game has been moved to Arizona due to wildfires in Southern California. Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford’s postseason experience will be key, as he leads the league in all-time playoff passing yards per game. Meanwhile, Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold seeks his first postseason victory while playing for his fourth team. Defensive matchups, particularly rookie Braden Fiske’s pass-rush ability against Minnesota’s offensive line, could determine the outcome.
From analysis to predictions, everything you need to know about the wild-card round is here in one place. Buckle up for an unforgettable weekend of NFL playoff football!