Wild Card Weekend: NFL Playoffs Kick Off with Surprises in Store

The NFL playoffs are finally here, and the excitement is building. Twelve teams are fighting for a chance to win the Super Bowl, while two teams, the Seattle Seahawks and Denver Broncos, get a break and wait for the next round. The Wild Card Weekend is where the action starts, and it's always full of surprises.

Key Matchups

Los Angeles Rams vs. Carolina Panthers

• The Panthers, who had a rough season, might just pull off an upset.
• History shows that underdog teams often win their first playoff game.
• The Rams, though, have something to prove after losing their last two games and a previous matchup against the Panthers.
• It's anyone's guess who will come out on top.

Green Bay Packers vs. Chicago Bears

• The Bears' running game will be key here, especially with rookie quarterback Caleb Williams making his first playoff start.
• The Packers, who almost won in their earlier matchup, seem likely to win this time.

Buffalo Bills vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

• The Jaguars might just pull off a surprise.
• The Bills have struggled on the road in the playoffs, while the Jaguars have been strong at home.
• If the Jaguars can run the ball effectively, they could give the Bills a tough time.

San Francisco 49ers vs. Philadelphia Eagles

• The Eagles' strong defense against the 49ers' good offense will decide the game.
• The 49ers have been struggling, but they might bounce back with some key players returning.
• The Eagles, though, seem to have the edge.

Los Angeles Chargers vs. New England Patriots

• The Chargers' quarterback, Justin Herbert, has had a rough playoff history, which makes the Patriots a strong contender.
• The Patriots' defense could be the key to their success.

Houston Texans vs. Pittsburgh Steelers

• The Steelers have been on a roll, and their expert predictions lean towards a high-scoring game.
• It's anyone's guess who will come out on top.