Winners and Losers from the Thrilling NFL Wild Card Saturday
The NFL Wild Card Saturday was a day of joy for some and sorrow for others. Here's a look at the biggest winners and losers:
Winners
The Buccaneers looked like a different team in their 31-15 win over the Philadelphia Eagles. Tom Brady was back to his old self, throwing for 271 yards and two touchdowns. The defense also played well, holding the Eagles to just 15 points.
The 49ers pulled off a huge upset by defeating the Dallas Cowboys 23-17. Brock Purdy played well in his first career playoff start, throwing for 214 yards and two touchdowns. The defense also came up with some big plays, including an interception by Fred Warner in the end zone.
The Jaguars stunned the Los Angeles Chargers 31-30 in a thrilling comeback victory. Trevor Lawrence threw for 253 yards and four touchdowns, including the game-winning touchdown pass to Zay Jones with just 24 seconds remaining.
The Giants upset the Minnesota Vikings 31-24. Daniel Jones played well in his first career playoff start, throwing for 301 yards and two touchdowns. The defense also played well, intercepting Kirk Cousins three times.
Losers
The Eagles were favored to beat the Buccaneers, but they were outplayed in all phases of the game. Jalen Hurts struggled, throwing for just 194 yards and one touchdown. The defense also gave up 31 points.
The Cowboys were also favored to win their Wild Card game, but they were upset by the 49ers. Dak Prescott played well, throwing for 296 yards and two touchdowns. However, the defense couldn't stop the 49ers' offense.
The Chargers had a chance to win their Wild Card game, but they blew a 27-0 lead to the Jaguars. Justin Herbert threw for 380 yards and three touchdowns, but he also threw two interceptions.
The Vikings were favored to beat the Giants, but they were upset in a 31-24 loss. Kirk Cousins threw for 274 yards and two touchdowns, but he also threw three interceptions.
Implications
The Wild Card Saturday results have set up some intriguing matchups for the Divisional Round. The Buccaneers will host the Cowboys, while the 49ers will travel to Green Bay to face the Packers. The Jaguars will host the Chiefs, while the Giants will travel to Philadelphia to face the Eagles.
The Divisional Round is sure to be just as exciting as the Wild Card Round, and it will be interesting to see who emerges from the playoffs and advances to the Super Bowl.
