The NFL playoffs are here, and it’s time to break down some of the best picks for Wild Card weekend. From moneylines to props and totals, we’ve got you covered with the sharpest plays to keep your betting card stacked and your wallet happy. Let’s dive into the matchups and find the edges.
NFL Picks for Jan. 11th, 12th, & 13th
Eagles Moneyline vs. Packers
Alright, let’s cut to it: the Eagles are a buzzsaw right now, and the Packers are standing in their path. Saquon Barkley just capped off a ridiculous regular season with 2,005 rushing yards, and he’s not slowing down. Barkley’s ability to break tackles and consistently move the chains is complemented by the offensive balance brought by Jalen Hurts, who added over 600 rushing yards and 18 passing touchdowns to his resume.
The Eagles’ defense, anchored by linebacker Zack Baun, has also been a revelation. Baun’s breakout season earned him PFF’s NFL Breakout Player of the Year award. With Green Bay’s young quarterback Jordan Love under center, the Eagles’ pass rush and secondary will have tons of opportunities to create turnovers. We can’t forget to look at Philadelphia’s record at home. At Lincoln Financial Field, they’ve gone 8-1 this season, making the Eagles’ moneyline the logical choice. Lock it in—Eagles to win outright.
Chargers vs. Texans Over 42.5
The matchup between the Los Angeles Chargers and the Houston Texans has the over written all over it. Both teams boast offenses that can move the ball efficiently, and their defenses have been inconsistent throughout the season. The Chargers, with Justin Herbert leading the charge, average 23.6 points per game. Herbert’s connection with Ladd McConkey and Will Dissly has been electric. On the other side looking at C.J. Stroud Williams stats on ATSWins, he has been showing what he’s made of with over 3,700 passing yards and 20 total touchdowns. Houston has also been aggressive in the red zone, and their offensive line has improved in pass protection as the season progressed. With both teams capable of putting up points and the total set at just 42.5, the over feels like a strong play.
Ravens -10 vs. Steelers
The Baltimore Ravens enter this Wild Card matchup as 10 point favorites, and for good reason. It’s Lamar Jackson and Derrick Henry’s world; we’re just living in it. Lamar Jackson has been in MVP form this season, throwing for 4,172 yards while adding another 915 on the ground. The Ravens’ offense, held down by Derrick Henry in the backfield, provides a two-headed rushing attack that is nearly impossible to contain. Henry has revitalized Baltimore’s ground game, averaging 5.9 yards per carry.
Defensively, the Ravens are just as imposing. Baltimore ranks first in the league in rushing defense and top 10 defense over all, allowing 21.2 points per game. Baltimore’s ability to control the clock with their run game and force turnovers with their aggressive defense makes them a strong pick to cover the 10-point spread, especially at M&T Bank Stadium, where they’ve gone 6-2.
Broncos vs. Bills Over 48
This game should see some fireworks as they light up the scoreboard. Josh Allen is doing Josh Allen things being the catalyst for the Bills’ offense, racking up over 3,730 passing yards and 28 total touchdowns this season. Khalil Shakir remains a top target, as well as Keon Coleman for a reliable red-zone option. The Bills’ offense averages 30.9 points per game, and their high tempo style often results in shootouts.
Meanwhile, the Broncos haven’t been able to establish the run and have placed a heavy burden on quarterback Bo Nix. Nix was impressive down the stretch, but we’re talking about a rookie QB playing on the road in a playoff game, and he doesn’t have much help around him.The Broncos have averaged 25 points per game and combine that with the abilities of the Bills offensive, this is set up nicely for the over to be a good pick. Expect the Bills to pull away in the 2nd and as this one goes over 50 points.
Saquon Barkley Over 21 Rush Attempts
Saquon Barkley is the engine of the Philadelphia Eagles’ offense, and his workload reflects that. Philly’s strategy is simple: feed Saquon and let him wear defenses down. Barkley has averaged 125 rushing yards per game and average of 21.5 carries per game for the season. Barkley’s ability to consistently gain positive yardage, even against stacked boxes, ensures he’ll remain the focal point of the Eagles’ game plan. He is fully rested and probably not in the best mood since he was not allowed to go for that single season rushing record. In a high stakes playoff game, expect Barkley to get the ball early and often he will be running angry, making this a strong prop bet.
Vikings Kicker Will Reichard to go OVER 6.5 points
Will Reichard, the Minnesota Vikings’ rookie kicker, has demonstrated remarkable consistency throughout the 2024 season. He successfully converted 24 of 30 field goal attempts, achieving an 80% success rate, and was flawless on extra points, making all 38 attempts. In the upcoming game against the Los Angeles Rams, the Vikings will almost definitely have a shot at multiple scoring opportunities, making this an easy prop pick. Given his reliability and the anticipated offensive performance, there’s a high likelihood that Reichard will exceed 6.5 total points in this game.
Bonus Pick: Commanders RB Austin Ekler OVER 29 yards rushing
Austin Ekeler has been a dynamic addition to the Washington Commanders this season, bringing versatility to both the rushing and passing games. In the 2024 regular season, he accumulated 367 rushing yards on 77 carries, averaging 4.8 yards per attempt, and scored four rushing touchdowns. Sure, those numbers don’t scream “workhorse,” but this matchup against Tampa Bay is all about situational rushing, and Ekeler thrives in those moments. Given his efficiency and the Commanders’ offensive approach, Ekeler is highly likely to surpass 29 rushing yards.
With playoff stakes at an all-time high, these picks offer a mix of value, insight, and confidence to help you navigate the weekend’s action. Whether you’re riding with moneylines, totals, or props, trust the analysis, lock in your plays, and get ready to enjoy some good ole american football. Now let’s all go cash some winning tickets!
