Predicting the entire 2022 NFL Playoffs: 1990s rematch in store
By Randy Gurzi
NFC Wild Card Predictions
Seattle Seahawks (7) at Minnesota Vikings (2)
No one expected Geno Smith to lead the Seattle Seahawks to the NFL playoffs but that’s exactly what he did. Seattle will be credited for winning the Russell Wilson trade — barring a complete turnaround for Wilson going forward — but their run comes to an end.
They hit the road and struggle with the high-powered Minnesota Vikings offense. They do at least keep it close but there are too many weapons for them to deal with.
Prediction: Minnesota 31, Seattle 23
New York Giants (6) at San Francisco 49ers (3)
The New York Giants made it into the NFL playoffs in Brian Daboll’s first season. The San Francisco 49ers won the NFC West despite being down to their third quarterback. This will likely be a low-scoring game but the 49ers have the better roster and find a way to win.
Prediction: San Francisco 26, New York 13
Dallas Cowboys (5) at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (4)
The Dallas Cowboys will likely be counted out due to their struggles in the finale. They looked terrible against the Washington Commanders but it was easy to see their hearts weren’t in it. Head coach Mike McCarthy has also been good at getting them back on track after such an ugly outing.
Now, they head to Tampa Bay to take on Tom Brady and the Bucs. Brady got the best of Dallas in Week 1 and they’ve still never won against him. Here, they finally get the monkey off their backs and send Brady home in Round 1.
Prediction: Dallas 24, Tampa Bay 21