By Ryan Bologna
College football is over, but the NFL playoffs are starting this weekend. Here are some of the games you might want to target with your bets.
Season record: 21-32-4
Seahawks @ 49ers (-9.5)
Pick: 49ers -9.5
These two teams have played twice this season, and neither game was very competitive. The Seahawks looked good in the first half of the season, but they have arguably limped into the playoffs. It took an overtime win against the Rams and the Lions beating the Packers for them to end up in this game. It’s a big number, but the 49ers have a good chance of covering here.
Ravens @ Bengals (-9.5)
Pick: Ravens +9.5
The Lamar Jackson story has been wild to follow over the last couple of weeks, and he won’t play in this game. However, I like the Ravens covering in this game. These teams played last weekend, and the Bengals did win by 11. However, the Ravens were on their way to getting within one score until Sammy Watkins fumbled on a big pass play. The Bengals should win, but expect Baltimore to keep it close enough to cover.
Cowboys @ Buccaneers
Pick: Buccaneers +2.5
Neither of these teams inspire much confidence at all. The Cowboys were playing for a chance at the NFC East title last week, and they didn’t show up at all. The Buccaneers have just looked off all year as well. Tampa Bay’s defense could be the difference in this game though. Dak Prescott has thrown some unlucky interceptions this year, but some of them have been flat out bad. The Buccaneers defense seems like a group that could capitalize on that.
Gas Station Sushi (Stay Away)
Giants @ Vikings (-3)
Both of these teams have played close games all year. Don’t expect that to change on Sunday. Just a few weeks ago the Vikings needed a 61-yard field goal to beat the Giants at home, who shot themselves in the foot many times that game. The Vikings offensive line is banged up, and the Giants pass rush is looking good as we get later into the season. They might have Adoree Jackson back for this game as well. However, Justin Jefferson is a game-breaker, and the Vikings seem to never be out of a game. Expect this one to come down to the wire, and some crazy play will be the difference. Don’t bet on this one, it could be a heart-breaker.
Photo Credit: Ben Harding
