Bold Predictions for the AFC and NFC Championship Games
The NFL playoffs are heating up, and the stakes have never been higher. With just two games standing between the contenders and a trip to the Super Bowl, the stage is set for some unforgettable matchups. Here are some bold predictions for the AFC and NFC Championship Games:
AFC Championship: Baltimore Ravens vs. Kansas City Chiefs
Ravens’ No. 1 Defense Will Sack and Turn Over Patrick Mahomes Multiple Times
Patrick Mahomes has been in top form this postseason, becoming the first quarterback in NFL history with no sacks and no turnovers in three consecutive playoff starts. However, he now faces the top-seeded Ravens in Baltimore, who boast the league’s top-ranked defense. Led by All-Pros Roquan Smith and Kyle Hamilton, the Ravens are poised to force Mahomes into multiple turnovers and sacks, presenting him with his toughest test in two years.
John Harbaugh Becomes First Former Andy Reid Assistant to Defeat Big Red in Playoffs
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid has never lost to a former assistant in the playoffs, but that streak may end against Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, who served under Reid in Philadelphia for eight seasons. Harbaugh’s Ravens, led by Lamar Jackson’s hot streak, will overcome the Chiefs’ struggles against dual-threat quarterbacks and return to the Super Bowl for the first time since 2012.
NFC Championship: San Francisco 49ers vs. Detroit Lions
Aidan Hutchinson Erupts for Three Sacks of Brock Purdy
Lions Pro Bowl edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson is on a tear, recording eight sacks in his last four games. He faces a 49ers offense that has allowed a high quarterback pressure rate, and Hutchinson is projected to capitalize, registering three sacks against Brock Purdy, who has only been sacked three times since Week 14.
Christian McCaffrey Becomes First RB to Break 100 Yards Against the Lions This Season
The Lions have been stingy against running backs all season, not allowing a single rusher to reach 70 yards or a run of over 30 yards. However, McCaffrey, the NFL’s rushing champion, is poised to break through, surpassing 100 yards and scoring a touchdown run of over 30 yards, just as he did against the Packers in the divisional round.
Brock Purdy Throws His First Interception of the Postseason, But 49ers Still Win
Purdy has yet to throw an interception in the postseason, but that may change against the Lions, who intercepted Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield on their first drive in the divisional round. However, Purdy’s talented supporting cast, including Deebo Samuel and Christian McCaffrey, will help the 49ers overcome any miscues and secure a victory at home against the lower-seeded Lions.
These are just a few bold predictions for the AFC and NFC Championship Games. With so much at stake, anything can happen. Tune in on Sunday to see who comes out on top and advances to Super Bowl LVII.
Call to Action
Who do you think will win the AFC and NFC Championship Games? Share your predictions in the comments below!