The Divisional Round of the NFL playoffs is upon us, and football fans are eagerly anticipating another exciting weekend of games. As the stakes get higher, so does the pressure on teams to perform at their best. For those who enjoy a little extra thrill, making picks against the spread can add an extra layer of excitement to the games. So, let’s take a look at some early NFL picks against the spread for the Divisional Round playoffs.
First up, we have the matchup between the Los Angeles Rams and the Green Bay Packers. The Packers, led by superstar quarterback Aaron Rodgers, have been dominant this season, earning the top seed in the NFC. They are currently favored by around 6.5 points against the Rams. The Rams, on the other hand, have a formidable defense that could pose a challenge for the Packers’ offense. However, with Rodgers’ exceptional play and the Packers’ home-field advantage, it’s hard to bet against them. The pick here would be to take the Packers to cover the spread.
Next, we have the Baltimore Ravens facing off against the Buffalo Bills. This game is expected to be a close one, with the Bills being favored by just around 2.5 points. Both teams have been in excellent form lately, with dynamic quarterbacks Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen leading their respective offenses. The Bills’ high-powered passing attack could give them an edge, but the Ravens’ strong defense and Jackson’s ability to make plays with his legs make this a tough call. In a game that could go either way, it might be wise to take the Ravens and the points.
Moving on to the Cleveland Browns versus the Kansas City Chiefs, the Chiefs are heavily favored by around 10 points. The defending Super Bowl champions have been virtually unstoppable with Patrick Mahomes leading their explosive offense. The Browns, however, have shown resilience and determination in their upset victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Wild Card round. While the Chiefs are undoubtedly the stronger team, the Browns’ ability to control the clock with their running game could help them keep it close. Taking the Browns and the points might be a tempting choice in this matchup.
Lastly, we have the Tampa Bay Buccaneers taking on the New Orleans Saints. The Saints are favored by around 3 points in this NFC South showdown. Both teams have future Hall of Fame quarterbacks in Tom Brady and Drew Brees, making this a marquee matchup. The Saints have had the upper hand in their previous two meetings this season, but Brady and the Buccaneers have been gaining momentum as the season progresses. With two evenly matched teams, it’s difficult to predict a clear winner. However, considering Brady’s playoff experience and the Buccaneers’ strong receiving corps, taking Tampa Bay and the points could be a smart move.
It’s important to note that these early picks against the spread are subject to change as more information becomes available closer to game time. Injuries, weather conditions, and other factors can significantly impact the outcome of a game. So, it’s always a good idea to stay updated and consider any late-breaking news before finalizing your picks.
As football fans gear up for an action-packed Divisional Round weekend, making picks against the spread can add an extra layer of excitement to the games. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just looking to have some fun, analyzing the matchups and considering various factors can help you make informed decisions. So, grab your favorite jersey, settle into your lucky chair, and get ready for another thrilling weekend of NFL playoff football.
