NFL Playoffs - Sunday Preview

AFC Wild Card Playoff Game

Oakland Raiders (12-4) @ Houston Texans (9-7) - NRG Stadium 

The Texans get the chance to avenge last year's playoff disappointment when they host a banged up Raiders team in an AFC Wild Card Showdown. The Texans have scrambled into the playoffs for the second straight season as AFC South Division Winners despite being poor offensively and finishing 9-7. The Texans have turned back to Brock Osweiler for this game at quarterback, despite his struggles this season. As for the Raiders, they are facing the disastrous situation of having to start their first playoff game in 14 years with their 3rd string quarterback, rookie Connor Cook. With Derek Carr out for the season, the Raiders were unwatchable last week as they slumped to a 24-6 loss at Denver. It's such a shame for the Raiders, who would have been a real force in the playoffs with a fit Derek Carr. 

Verdict - Houston 16 Raiders 10

Sorry, but this looks one of the worst playoffs games I have ever seen. The Raiders couldn't even pick up first downs against the Broncos so I expect them to struggle just as much against Houston's excellent defence, Houston's offense is pedestrian so expect this game to be a real struggle. Raiders will give up one or two big plays on defence which will prove the difference. 

NFC Wild Card Game

Detroit Lions (9-7) @ Seattle Seahawks (10-5-1) - CenturyLink Field

The slumping Lions face the massive task of going on the road to take on the Seahawks in an NFC Wild Card game at CenturyLink Field. The Lions have lost all their momentum in the last 3 weeks, suffering consecutive losses to the Giants, Cowboys and Packers coming into the playoffs. The Lions are looking to break a long run of outs having not won a playoff game in their last 8 attempts. The Seahawks have had a stuttering campaign, however often spring to life at this time of year. Seattle will be relying on their veteran defence and quarterback Russell Wilson to lead them back to the promised land and another Super Bowl appearance.

Verdict - Seahawks 28 Lions 20

I don't know quite what to make of the Seahawks this year. However I do know that in a home playoff game they will be mighty hard to beat. Detroit have the ability to make some big plays however they appear to be heading in the wrong direction at the business time of year.