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The first slate of matches in this year's playoffs is a good one. In the AFC, you've got a tense divisional matchup with the Bengals facing the Steelers. The Texans also have chance to play spoiler to the red-hot Kansas City Chiefs. The other conference, the NFC, has another great matchup with the Redskins having a legitimate chance to upend the powerhouse that is the Packers. These are some tough games to predict, but here is what the best of the best think will happen.
Kansas City Chiefs @ Houston Texans
83% of experts pick the Chiefs.
My Take: The Chiefs haven't lost a game since October 25th, and I don't see that changing. The Chiefs are the hottest team in football right now, and their balanced attack will be no match for the Texans. The Texans' one-man offense (DeAndre Hopkins), will be no match for the talented Chief defense.
KC 28 - HOU 10
Pittsburgh Steelers @ Cincinnati Bengals
64% of experts pick the Steelers.
My Take: I don't see why so many are basking in the Steeler hype this week. The team hasn't faced a starting quarterback since November 29th, yet their secondary still looks shaky. On offense, the once powerful attack has proved anemic down the stretch. Without the dangerous DeAngelo Williams, I have a hard time seeing their offense finding much room against the stout Bengals' defense. A.J. McCarron might not lead the team to their first playoff win in forever, but the defense certainly will.
CIN 21 - PIT 17
Seattle Seahawks @ Minnesota Vikings
94% of experts pick the Seahawks to win.
My Take: Everyone seems to think this will be a blowout by Seattle. I think those folks are just a little too high on the Seahawks squad. The Vikings bring a formidable defensive attack and a potentially dangerous passing attack should they cut the reigns on Teddy Bridgewater. If the Vikings play their cards right, this one could be closer than most think.
SEA 24 - MIN 20
Green Bay Packers @ Washington Redskins
57% of experts pick the Redskins.
My Take: I'm with the majority here. The Redskins are on fire down the stretch, and the Packers are the exact opposite. Kirk Cousins and the Redskins power through the once-powerful Packers.
WAS 31 - GB 17