In the upcoming NFL wild card games, fans and bettors are showing strong support for home teams, with one notable exception. The majority of wagers and money are backing the hosts in three out of four matches. For instance, the Buffalo Bills have garnered significant attention as they prepare to face off against the Denver Broncos. Currently, the Bills are favored by 8.5 points, having attracted 57% of bets and 58% of the money. This marks an increase from the initial spread of 7.5 points.
The Philadelphia Eagles are also commanding substantial betting interest as they welcome the Green Bay Packers to their turf. With Jalen Hurts cleared to play, the Eagles have seen a surge in confidence among bettors, now standing as 5.5-point favorites. They have secured 73% of bets and 72% of the money, reflecting optimism about their chances. Meanwhile, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, hosting the Washington Commanders on Sunday night, are favored by 3 points, drawing 57% of bets and 60% of the money.
However, not all home teams are enjoying this level of support. The Los Angeles Rams, facing the Minnesota Vikings, find themselves as underdogs for the first time this season. Due to wildfires in the Los Angeles area, the game has been relocated to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Despite this, the Vikings are receiving 70% of bets and 66% of the money, making them slight favorites at 2.5 points. As the playoff drama unfolds, the outcomes of these early matchups will set the stage for the divisional round, where winners will vie for a chance to advance further in the postseason.
The NFL playoffs have already delivered unexpected results, with road underdogs like the Houston Texans securing a decisive victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. This unpredictability adds excitement and anticipation to the remaining wild card games. As the action continues, the performances of these teams will not only impact their playoff journeys but also highlight the competitive spirit and resilience that define professional football.