Upsets, beatdowns, and even a “double doink.” The wild-card round of the NFL playoffs had it all. But if you thought the drama and excitement would end there, then clearly you haven’t been paying attention this season. The craziness is just getting started.
The stage is set for the divisional round, where the final eight teams — four in each conference — will look to move one step closer toward the ultimate prize — a Super Bowl title. Of course, in the end, only two teams will get the opportunity to play on the biggest stage.
As you all know, one of those representatives will come from the NFC. But who will it be? Vegas oddsmakers have a theory. Here’s a look at the four remaining team’s odds of winning the NFC championship.
Odds courtesy of Sportsbook.ag as of January 9, 2019.
Dallas Cowboys (+800)
Vegas might not like the Cowboys’ chances, but they shouldn’t be overlooked. That Dallas D is nasty and athletic on all three levels and the three-headed monster of Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliott, and Amari Cooper is as legit as it gets. This group definitely has what it takes to make a run.
Philadelphia Eagles (+700)
The last time the Philadelphia Eagles took on the New Orleans Saints they were embarrassed 48-7. But this is not the same team. The Birds are the healthiest they’ve been all season, the defense is playing at an extremely high level, and most importantly, the magic of Nick Foles has returned to the City of Brother Love. Don’t look now — the defending Super Bowl champs are coming to shock the world.
Los Angeles Rams (+240)
Despite looking vulnerable as of late, the Los Angeles Rams have the ability to turn it on at any moment — especially on the offensive side of the ball. Sean McVay’s club started the year off 8-0, finished with a 13-3 record, and averaged an impressive 32.9 points per game (2nd of 32). If they find their rhythm in the divisional round, the Rams have as good a chance as anyone to be playing for the Lombardi Trophy.
New Orleans Saints (-115)
The New Orleans Saints players know what’s at stake. And for those who forgot, head coach Sean Payton was quick to remind them with a presentation you bet they’ll remember:
From sources:
Yesterday, 4 armed guards entered the @saints locker room, with Coach @SeanPayton wheeling the Lombardi trophy on top of $225k in cash.
Coach then said: “Y’all want this???”
“Win 3 F’n games.”
The locker room erupted. $225k is each player’s SB bonus. #WHODAT
— Jon DeTrinis (@JonDeTrinis) January 9, 2019
Vegas oddsmakers believe the Saints will be marching to the Super Bowl. It’s hard to argue with them.
Statistics courtesy of Pro-Football-Reference.
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