NFL Wild-Card Weekend: Underdogs Poised for Upsets

The NFL wild-card weekend is known for its unpredictability, and the 2024 playoffs are no exception. With six underdogs entering the fray, the stage is set for potential upsets that could shake up the postseason. Last year saw only one upset in the opening round, but this season, favorites have been winning at a rate of over 71%, making the underdogs even more intriguing.

In Houston, the Texans face the Los Angeles Chargers, who have defied expectations under first-year head coach Jim Harbaugh. Despite being in a retooling phase, the Chargers boast a stingy defense and a superior quarterback in Justin Herbert. The Texans, on the other hand, have struggled with injuries to key receivers Brandin Cooks and Nico Collins, leaving their offense in a precarious state. Harbaugh’s Chargers are poised to roll in Houston and advance to the divisional round.

Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills are on upset alert as they host the Denver Broncos. Denver’s rookie quarterback Bo Nix has been on a tear, throwing 21 touchdowns to just six interceptions over his last eight games. Combined with a defense that leads the league in sacks and allows the third-fewest points per game, the Broncos have the tools to pull off a shocking upset in Buffalo. The Bills’ high-powered offense, led by Josh Allen, will face its toughest test yet against Denver’s formidable defense.

In another potential upset, the Washington Commanders, led by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, are riding a five-game winning streak into their matchup with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Despite being underdogs, the Commanders’ dual-threat quarterback and overachieving squad could spell trouble for the Buccaneers, who narrowly secured their playoff spot. Washington’s revenge tour continues as they aim to book a trip to Detroit for the divisional round.

As the wild-card weekend unfolds, the underdogs are barking louder than ever. With key matchups, coaching strategies, and player performances in the spotlight, the NFL playoffs are set to deliver another round of thrilling football action.