The Numbers Game – NFL Conference Championship Preview

It’s four teams left with three games to go and the playoffs have been dazzling so far. All the big plays, big hits and big-time performances you could ask for has been displayed. These four teams have exhibited something unique in their own right and now it’s time to really put forth their best efforts.

 

Washington Commanders  vs. Philadelphia Eagles
Sunday January 26th, 3:00 PM Eastern

If we’re counting games like I did in the introduction, it’s two down, one to go in this series. With both teams winning a game in their regular season matchups, the rubber match will be for all the marbles.

The “Cardiac Commanders” have paved their way to the NFC Conference Championship Game. They’re averaging 34.0 points and 415.5 yards from scrimmage per game in the postseason.

Jayden Daniels and company has proven themselves a very formidable foe, especially late in games. During the playoffs, they’ve scored a total of 24 points including three touchdowns in the fourth quarter.

Their defense has given up 52 points overall in the playoffs but they have forced a total of six turnovers. Washington will need a total effort from both sides of the ball.

Philadelphia has used it’s massive defensive line to disrupt two really good offenses in the playoffs. They’ve racked up seven overall sacks and they have forced a total of six turnovers in the Divisional and Wildcard rounds. They’re allowing an average of 16.0 points per game.

The offensive line has equally imposed their will on the opposition. The Eagles are bludgeoning teams on the ground, gaining a total of 454 rushing yards in two playoff games. They’ve outscored their opponents by a total of 18 points.

 

X-Factor

Washington Commanders – Jayden Daniels, Quarterback

Daniels is two wins away from being the greatest rookie quarterback of all time in some people’s eyes. In order to win this one, he’s going to have to get on the move and neutralize that devastating Eagles pass rush. These are the times when a quarterback like Daniels needs to put his team on his shoulder and make every play possible.

Philadelphia Eagles – Saquon Barkley, Running Back

Washington is allowing an average of 151.0 rushing yards per game during the playoffs. Barkley is averaging 162.0 rushing yards per game in two playoff games of his own.

His uncanny ability to break off long runs can be demoralizing, especially for a young Commanders team. Philadelphia should continue the trend of giving Barkley a healthy amount of touches until somebody proves they can stop him.

Prediction: Philadelphia 27 – Washington 21

 

Buffalo Bills  vs. Kanas City Chiefs
Sunday January 26th, 6:30 PM Eastern

The last three times these teams have met in the playoffs, the Chiefs have come away with the victory. No matter what you think a rivalry is, it’s hard to be rivals when one team is defeated every time it counts.

Buffalo has found ways to score even when Josh Allen isn’t throwing the ball well. They’re averaging 29.0 points and 372 yards from scrimmage per game during the playoffs.

The defense has given up an average of 16.0 points per game, with nine quarterback hits and eleven tackles for loss. Timely hits in the backfield has derailed their oppositions success.

It seems Kansas City starts off their season during this round of the playoffs. Their defense dominated the Houston Texans to the tune of eight sacks and only one offensive touchdown.

Kansas City didn’t exactly light up the scoreboard in the Divisional round themselves but they got the job done. Old reliable Travis Kelce made sure to come through at the right time and Patrick Mahomes didn’t turn the ball over.

Can the Chiefs make it four in a row against the Bills?

 

X-Factor

Buffalo Bills – Gregory Rousseau, Defensive End

Rousseau has racked up two sacks and three tackles for loss in the playoffs. With the Chiefs having offensive line problems, Rousseau’s disruptive play could help stop drives and produce opportunities for his teammates.

Kansas City Chiefs – Xavier Worthy, Wide Receiver

Worthy had the second most targets and receiving yards in the divisional round but missed a couple of opportunities for a big play. The Chiefs will need to score a bit more in this game and if Worthy can get loose deep, it will surely give the defense something else to worry about.

Prediction: Kansas city 28 – Buffalo 27