NFL picks and score predictions for the Divisional Round as we’re down to eight contenders.
The first round of the 2022 NFL Playoffs is in the books, and it was quite the show. While there were more blowouts than expected, it was still an exciting three-day affair that reminded us why we love postseason football. Well, guess what? There’s more to come this week.
As I’m sure you expected, we’ve now got you covered with the Divisional Round edition of NFL picks and score predictions. As always, I’ll never claim to know what the future holds. As it turns out, odds are high at least a few of my picks will be completely wrong. I will, however, make my selections based on research, experience, and careful consideration.
I’m usually not one to toot my hoot too loudly, but I do want to call out that I correctly predicted all six of the Wild Card weekend games. That makes me a shiny 6-0 to start the 2022 postseason. I can’t promise the perfect streak will continue this upcoming weekend, but it’s a promising sign as we move through the early parts of the playoffs.
Just remember that making picks is not a science. Plenty of research goes into it, but there’s no crystal ball — craziness occurs every Sunday. Then again, isn’t that part of the fun of it all?
Now that we’ve gotten all of that out of the way, here are my NFL picks and score predictions for the Divisional Round. Just keep in mind that I assume no responsibility if you choose to place wagers based on my picks — that’s your decision, not mine.
NFL Playoff Divisional Round picks and predictions
No. 4 Cincinnati Bengals at No. 1 Tennessee Titans
Saturday, January 22, 4:35 PM ET
I know, I know. Derrick Henry is back, which means the No. 1 seed Tennessee Titans are suddenly worthy of the Super Bowl conversation. I understand that, and I’m not denying they have the potential to go the distance this season.
Before they do that, though, they have to get through the Cincinnati Bengals. And based on what we’ve seen from the Bengals in recent weeks, the Titans aren’t going to be able to cruise in this one. In fact, they’ll need every ounce of offense Henry can muster if they’re going to outscore Joe Burrow and the Bengals offense.
Don’t let last week fool you — Cincinnati has the potential to light up the Tennessee defense. Yes, they struggled at times to move the ball against the Las Vegas Raiders defense. But when it mattered most, Burrow and Co. found a way to put points on the board. Plus, this Bengals defense is no slouch, meaning they aren’t just going to let the Titans roll them over.
This could be a low-scoring affair, with Tennessee trying to control the clock while the Bengals do their best to keep the ball away from Ryan Tannehill and Henry. Let’s say it comes down to the final possession, with Burrow tossing a dazzling touchdown to Ja’Marr Chase as time expires to secure a trip to the AFC Championship game.
Prediction: Bengals win 24-21