Who Dat Nation — we’re in the thick of it now. The regular season is behind us, and this weekend’s divisional round is where the NFL separates the good from the great.
Looking at the schedule, odds, injuries, and matchup nuances, you get a mix of experience, physicality, and high-stakes football that only January can deliver.
Here’s how I’m seeing it — in a way Saints fans can appreciate.
BUF vs. DEN
Big, physical, veteran battle.
Buffalo’s offense is explosive, and their defense isn’t afraid to get after you. Denver’s defense can keep you honest, but their offense hasn’t shown sustained consistency.
Tony’s take: Bills’ firepower edges this one.
Prediction: Bills win — Buffalo moves on.
SF vs. SEA
This is one of those classic playoff chess matches. San Francisco’s front seven can rearrange your game plan; Seattle’s offense has that late-game magic.
Tony’s take: Seahawks know how to win close; Niners know how to close out games.
Prediction: 49ers win — experience at the end of games matters.
HOU vs. NE
Houston’s been exciting — fast, aggressive, and young — but New England is playoff New England: disciplined, physical, and slow-to-panic.
Tony’s take: If NE controls the line and makes you one-dimensional, it’s trouble for Houston.
Prediction: Patriots win — home-field discipline wins out.
LAR vs. CHI
This one’s a toss-up on paper. The Bears are scrappy and well-coached; the Rams have that veteran feel and postseason momentum.
Tony’s take: Chicago’s a real story this year, but Rams experience is tough to bet against.
Prediction: Rams win — late drives decide it.
What This Weekend Is Really About
A few things stand out:
• Experience matters now.
Playoff games aren’t about potential — they’re about execution under pressure. Teams that have been here before tend to find answers when others panic.
• Defense still wins in January.
Big plays matter, but consistent stops win drives — and playoff coaches know that.
• Every game will be close.
Nobody’s riding to the championship on a runaway train this year. That’s what makes this slate exciting — and brutal.
Why This Matters for Saints Fans
Even though New Orleans isn’t playing this weekend, this is the standard every team in the league is chasing.
This is the kind of football we want the Saints to be ready for next season:
- Quick adjustments
- Finishing drives
- Getting stops when it matters
- Composure late in games
You can feel the difference between teams built for January and teams that aren’t. That’s the blueprint.
Bottom Line
Playoff football is here — and it’s glorious, nerve-racking, physical, and decisive.
Who wins? I gave you my calls.
Who advances? We’ll find out.
Most importantly: this is the level the Saints are trying to build toward.
Who Dat.
— Anthony “Tony” from the Westbank