2021 NFL Playoffs picks, score predictions for Wild Card Round

Indianapolis Colts (7) at Buffalo Bills (2)

Saturday, January 9, 1:05PM ET

It wasn’t too long ago I considered the Indianapolis Colts one of the top sleepers in the AFC. They boasted a top-tier defense, a capable offense highlighted by a productive run game and an outstanding coaching staff ready to lead the whole group deep into the playoffs.

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Then they pulled a first-round matchup with the Buffalo Bills, one of the hottest teams in the NFL at this moment. While I still believe the Colts absolutely belong in the playoffs, they’re not equipped to take down the Bills and Josh Allen on Saturday.

Allen has been one of the best quarterbacks in the league this year, aided by the fact that he’s got Stefon Diggs to throw to. Add in a dependable running game and one of the league’s best defenses, and it all makes sense why they’ve surged into the playoffs while stealing the No. 2 seed. Now, it’s time for them to prove they’ve got what it takes to go the distance.

The Colts look good at first, but the Buffalo defense begins turning up the heat on Philip Rivers. A couple of turnovers later, and the floodgates open, allowing the Bills to run away with a Wild Card victory and securing a trip to the Divisional Round.

Prediction: Bills win 43-17