2021 NFL Playoffs picks, score predictions for Wild Card Round

Tampa Bay Buccaneers (5) at Washington Football Team (4)

Saturday, January 9, 8:15PM ET

It’s a feel-good story for the Washington Football Team to be in the playoffs. They’ve endured a lot this season, from Ron Rivera overcoming cancer to Alex Smith’s miraculous return to the field. Unfortunately, the good vibes train will be abruptly derailed during Wild Card weekend.

Why? Because the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are coming to town, and they bring plenty of momentum with them. Tom Brady and Co. have been rolling through the final month of the 2020 season, and now have their sights set on smashing the inferior Football Team on Saturday.

Even if Alex Smith is healthy and Washington comes into this one high off of their playoff berth, it won’t mean much. The Buccaneers are the more talented team in just about every aspect, from their high-flying offensive assault to their outstanding defense. The D.C. defense has its own claim to semi-fame, but it won’t be enough to slow down the Brady show.

For the most part, this one will be a blowout. Washington adds a touchdown or two late in the game to make it look not so much like a beatdown, but anyone who watches will understand that the NFC East champs didn’t really belong in the playoffs.

Prediction: Buccaneers win 30-13