NFL wildcard weekend predictions: how the Steelers can pull off a miracle at the Ravens
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The weekend promises a heap of drama in the NFC as the 14-3 Vikings meet LA, while in the AFC a pair of underdogs attempt to stage heists. What the Chargers need to do to win: The league’s stingiest defense cannot afford the complacency that allowed Tampa Bay to rain 40 points down on them in December. The Chargers’ stats look good – they gave up the fewest touchdowns (31) in the regular season, including 18 on 39 red-zone drives, a league-leading efficiency mark of 46% – but would be even better without a few aberrations. Handily, the away day will not faze them considering their 6-3 record on the road this season. LA should take care of an underpowered Houston offense if they can forget about their wildcard shocker against Jacksonville two years ago.
![[Lamar Jackson enjoyed another MVP-calibre season for the Ravens.]](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/2c267f6975c32659a8069764cda71998b93e7ea8/615_1260_7074_4244/master/7074.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)
What the Texans need to do to win: To combat the oddity of the Texans being underdogs in their own building, Houston offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik needs to fire CJ Stroud up. The quarterback has looked like a beaten man at times this season, suffering behind a weak offensive line and a receiving group missing key players. If Slowik calls some quick-release plays to march the Texans in for an early score then Houston may start feeling lucky.
![[Stopping Saquon Barkley has been a tough task this season.]](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/c303d28adfbbf1c3fefd59df0823f968d50524b6/0_73_7899_4741/master/7899.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)
Key player: Ladd McConkey, WR, Chargers. The rookie has taken over LA’s offensive production. McConkey’s key assets are his versatility and route running. He can line up in or outside the slot and has befuddled opposing defenses with his ability to catch in traffic. Think Detroit’s Amon-Ra St Brown only hitting the ground faster.
![[Justin Jefferson was named to his fourth Pro Bowl this season.]](https://i.guim.co.uk/img/media/4d816c79bc4c20966475c69c10579229bd4a7196/0_25_4952_2973/master/4952.jpg?width=445&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none)
