NFL | On to the playoffs!

The first week of NFL playoff games is the most exhilarating. Mainly because anything can happen. Legends were born there and dynasties died there. Here’s a roundup of the weekend’s matches.

Seattle Seahawks (9-8) vs. 49^ers from San Francisco (13-4), Saturday at 4:30 p.m.

Geno Smith has much to be proud of. The 32-year-old quarterback had the daunting task of replacing Russell Wilson, the best quarterback in Seahawks history. Smith made gold out of salt to lead his team not just to a winning record, but to an unexpected playoff berth. Unfortunately for him, he will face the 49^ers. The men of the Bay are intractable at home. They have won eight of their nine games at home. Additionally, the Niners have had the upper hand against the Seahawks in their two matchups. Undefeated in his first five career starts, rookie quarterback Brock Purdy has shown guts and talent. Led by Nick Bosa, the league’s best quarterback rusher, the defense should make short work of their opponents.

Prediction: 49^ers 34, Seahawks 12

Los Angeles Chargers (10-7) vs. Jacksonville Jaguars (9-8), Saturday at 8:15 p.m.

The only thing that could tip the Jaguars in favor is their late-season momentum. Against all odds, Trevor Lawrence led his team to a division title. However, the Chargers’ offensive threat is too big compared to the Jags. The Californians have performed below expectations, especially on defense due to multiple injuries, but their offensive core is formidable. Justin Herbert, Austin Ekeler and Keenan Allen will make Floridians see all the colors. However, beware of inexperience. Just because Justin Herbert has three seasons behind the tie doesn’t necessarily mean he knows how to tie the knot well. The 24-year-old quarterback will be in his first playoff game in the NFL, like his counterpart Lawrence.

Prediction: Chargers 24, Jaguars 21

Miami Dolphins (9-8) vs. Buffalo Bills (13-3), Sunday at 1 p.m.

Unsurprisingly, the Bills will show up at Highmark Stadium as favorites. We could have expected a relatively full-bodied duel if Tua Tagovailoa had been in the game, but the quarterback will have to leave, still inconvenienced by a concussion. So the Bills’ win is predictable like Wilfred’ win at Star Academy in 2003. Buffalo certainly has the most balanced formation on the circuit. The Bills are also riding a seven-game winning streak. The motivation to win for their teammate Damar Hamlin must also be part of the equation. In contrast, the Dolphins have just one win in their last six games. Tyreek Hill could work wonders, but his power will be limited if the ball doesn’t get to him.

Prediction: Bills 36, Dolphins 10

New York Giants (9-7-1) vs. Minnesota Vikings (13-4), Sunday at 4:30 p.m.

Will the magic of Brian Daboll be able to operate in the playoffs? If any team can pull off an upset, it’s the Giants. Daboll worked miracles in his first season at the helm of the team. He can also thank Daniel Jones. The quarterback lived up to expectations and he got up at the end of the season. Saquon Barkley played at the height of his talent. If any player can repeat Marshawn Lynch’s exploits on January 8, 2011, when he helped the Seahawks eliminate the New Orleans Saints, it’s Barkley. Obviously, the offensive punch of the Vikings is indisputable. They have in their ranks Justin Jefferson, the best receiver in the NFL. However, Minnesota’s defense was the 28^e of the league in points allowed per game and second-to-last against the pass this season.

Prediction: Giants 30, Vikings 27

Baltimore Ravens (10-7) vs. Cincinnati Bengals (12-4), Sunday at 8:15 p.m.

Without Lamar Jackson, the Ravens offense is anemic. In their last five games, they’ve averaged a meager 13 points per game. It won’t be nearly enough against the Bengals. Joe Burrow’s offense averages more than 26 points per game. The Ravens defense is excellent. She is one of the most formidable in the NFL, especially against the ground game. It’s a bit more difficult against the aerial game and it’s in this sphere of the game that the Bengals will put their opponents down. With their three-headed monster, composed of Ja’Marr Chase, Tyler Boyd and Tee Higgins, the finalists of the last Super Bowl will make life difficult for their rivals. They are even more confident, talented and prepared than last season.

Prediction: Bengals 28, Ravens 14

Dallas Cowboys (12-5) vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8-9), Monday at 8:15 p.m.

What should we remember from the last 22 years? Never underestimate Tom Brady. Never. Admittedly, the Cowboys have a very balanced formation. They rely on exceptional defense that is effective in all aspects of the game. Their ground game is threatening, but their lack of depth at receiver is a deficiency. On the other side, the Buccaneers enter the playoffs with a losing record and very little pace, but they are no slouches. With Brady in uniform, at home, anything is possible. Receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin each had over 1,000 passing yards. Leonard Fournette is even better when it counts. And linebackers Lavonte David and Devin White still form a formidable tandem, capable of doing anything.

Prediction: Buccaneers 27, Cowboys 26