2021 NFL Playoffs: 10 Bold predictions for the Wild Card Round

NFL Playoffs Wild Card prediction No. 6: Jonathan Taylor stays white hot

Admittedly, the Bills defense has taken a step forward down the stretch of the regular season. However, there were times throughout the year when Buffalo looked to be a team that was always going to be in shootouts. And a big reason for that was their lack of defense against the run. Even after 17 weeks to balance things out, the Bills defense ranks 17th in Rush Defense DVOA according to Football Outsiders.

Going up against Jonathan Taylor, that’s bad news for Buffalo. The Colts rookie running back finally took over the lead role in the backfield down the stretch and was dominant. He had over 80 yards in five of his last six games and scored seven touchdowns in the last four outings. After finishing Week 17 with 253 rush yards, he’ll tear up the Bills with over 150 yards and another two touchdowns to his credit.

NFL Playoffs Wild Card prediction No. 5: Baker Mayfield shocks with 4 TDs

Despite the unbelievable excitement out of Cleveland with the Browns finally returning to the NFL Playoffs, things have not been going swimmingly leading into their Wild Card Round matchup with the rival Steelers. Head coach Kevin Stefanski and a host of key players, most notably guard Joel Bitonio, have been ruled out for Sunday night’s game due to COVID-19. That puts Baker Mayfield and the Browns behind the 8-ball.

That’s going to fuel the young quarterback, though. He’s been criticized quite a bit due to his shortcomings in 2019 but his performance this season deserves far more credit than he’s been given. He’s stepped up and delivered time and again. And with his team shorthanded and their backs up against the wall, Mayfield will step up and account for four scores to fuel the Browns’ return to the postseason.