Explore how underdog teams can pull off surprising wins in the NFL divisional round
Buffalo: It’s that time of year again, and the NFL divisional round is upon us. This weekend is always a blast, with teams either coming off a playoff win or a well-deserved bye week. The excitement is palpable, especially for the underdogs looking to shake things up.
Three games this weekend have some hefty spreads. The Houston Texans are 8.5-point underdogs, the Commanders are sitting at nine points, and the Rams are six-point underdogs. It’s a classic setup for potential upsets, and I’m here to break down how these teams can pull off the impossible.
First up, the Texans against the Chiefs. The Texans have a fierce pass rush, which could be their secret weapon. If they can pressure Patrick Mahomes, they might just rattle him enough to create some opportunities. The Chiefs have had their struggles with pass protection, and if the Texans can exploit that, they could turn the tide.
Next, we have the Commanders facing off against the Lions. The Commanders are all about that no-huddle offense, and they need to crank up the tempo. The Lions have shown weaknesses against fast-paced attacks, so if the Commanders can keep the pressure on, they might just catch the Lions off guard.
Then there are the Rams, who need to get creative with their personnel. By using more two-tight-end sets, they can force the Eagles into uncomfortable matchups. The Eagles have a solid defense, but if the Rams can exploit their personnel groupings, they could find some success.
Finally, the Bills are up against the Ravens. This matchup is a real nail-biter. The Bills need to mix things up on defense and target specific weaknesses in the Ravens’ coverage. If Josh Allen can find those gaps, the Bills could come out on top in this chilly showdown.
So, whether you’re rooting for the favorites or hoping for some thrilling upsets, this weekend promises to be one for the books. Grab your snacks, settle in, and enjoy the games!