Bierman’s Best Bets: NFL Wildcard Weekend
We’re still padding those wallets, folks! Another solid 2-1 week brings our NFL season record to an impressive 34-19-1. With the playoffs kicking off, the slate is smaller, but three underdog matchups stand out this week.
Playoff football is heating up, and so are our picks. Let’s keep the momentum going and rake in those dollars with these juicy matchups. Let’s go!
Packers (+5) at Eagles (*All lines are from DraftKings Sportsbook)
Let’s set last week’s game aside as it didn’t matter, with the Packers resting many starters, and they still nearly beat the Bears. In their other five losses this season, four came against the Lions and Vikings, and the fifth? It was in Week 1, a tight 34-29 loss to these very same Eagles.
Both teams have had exceptional seasons and are built for deep playoff runs. This matchup features two top-10 offenses and two top-5 defenses. Jalen Hurts has been phenomenal all year, and Saquon Barkley has been a game-changer for the Eagles. But don’t sleep on the Packers. Jordan Love has cemented himself as a top-tier QB, Josh Jacobs has been a force on the ground, and their defense brings a hard-nosed edge that matches up well against anyone.
This has all the makings of a close game. While I think the Eagles will find a way to pull it out, five points is a lot to lay in an NFL playoff game – especially against a Packers team that thrives in the cold. I’ll take the Packers and the points in what should be a fantastic battle.
The Pick: Packers +5
Commanders (+3.5) at Buccaneers
Few players have been as impressive this season as Commanders rookie QB Jayden Daniels. Watching him, you’d think he’s a seasoned veteran rather than a 24-year-old with less than a full season under his belt. He’s poised, dynamic, and electrifying to watch. While there’s some concern about how he’ll handle the pressure of his first playoff game – on the road, no less – I believe he’ll rise to the occasion against a Tampa Bay defense that ranks in the bottom half of the league in yards allowed.
On the other side, the Buccaneers barely scraped into the playoffs with a narrow win over the struggling Saints, a game that was far closer than it should have been. That said, credit to QB Baker Mayfield, who’s been playing some of the best football of his career. His dual-threat ability, including 68 rushing yards against the Saints, has propelled Tampa to a top-3 offense.
As always, the playoffs are anyone’s game, and both teams are deserving of their spot. However, the Commanders have been the more consistent team this season, riding a five-game winning streak and carrying plenty of momentum into this matchup. Getting more than a field goal is too good to pass up – I’m taking the Commanders and the points.Bottom of Form
The Pick: Commanders +3.5
Vikings at Rams (+2.5)
With all due respect to my podcast co-host Pat Klett, I still have my doubts about his hometown Vikings. Despite their remarkable season, I believe the SKOL train comes to a screeching halt this weekend in Los Angeles.
The warning signs were clear in their recent blowout loss to Detroit, a game with massive implications. Sam Darnold, who’s had a solid season, looked completely rattled, completing less than 50% of his passes for just 166 yards against a mediocre Lions defense. Meanwhile, Justin Jefferson – arguably the best receiver in football – was held to just 3 catches for 54 yards.
The Rams aren’t flawless, ranking in the bottom 10 in yards allowed, but their offense feels primed to erupt. Veteran QB Matthew Stafford has been in these moments before and thrives under pressure, especially at home. Less than a month ago, he led the Rams to an impressive upset over the Buffalo Bills in Los Angeles. Add in the fact that the Rams rested many starters against Seattle last week, and they should be fresh and ready to fire on all cylinders. The Rams also have plenty of momentum, winning five in a row before the Seattle loss that didn’t matter.
With weapons like Puka Nacua, Cooper Kupp, Kyren Williams, and others, this Rams offense has the tools to overwhelm Minnesota. On the flip side, I’m not sold on Darnold, who I expect will commit a few critical turnovers under the bright lights.
The Rams, at home, as underdogs? That’s too good to pass up. We’ll gladly take the points and roll with the Rams!
The Pick: Rams +2.5
