Super Bowl 60 Predictions: Analyzing the Wide-Open Playoff Field

The NFL playoffs are at an intriguing juncture as the race for Super Bowl 60 heats up. This season has been marked by its unpredictability, culminating in a series of remarkable comebacks during Wildcard Weekend. After a record number of thrilling games, six teams have advanced to the Divisional Round, joined by the top seeds from each conference: the Denver Broncos in the AFC and the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC, both of whom received first-round byes.

As the playoffs progress, the competition intensifies. “It”s win or go home, and at this point of the season, every team has the ability to hurt you,” stated Aden Durde, the Seahawks” British defensive coordinator. “Every team has earned the right to be here. There”s no one you can take lightly or put above someone else.”

The Seahawks are slightly favored to win Super Bowl 60 ahead of the Los Angeles Rams. However, fans and analysts alike are eager to see which teams will emerge victorious in next week”s Conference Championships. The Kansas City Chiefs, who have eliminated the Buffalo Bills from the playoffs in four of the last five seasons, are absent this year, raising questions about whether it is finally the time for Bills quarterback Josh Allen to reach the Super Bowl.

Despite their absence, the Bills demonstrated their resilience by staging a comeback victory against Jacksonville last week. They now face a tough challenge as they head to Denver to take on the top-seeded Broncos. “Defense still wins championships,” emphasized USA Today reporter Tyler Dragon. “Denver is well-balanced, and like the Seahawks, their defense is a cornerstone of their success.” The Broncos have experienced a remarkable season, winning 13 of their last 14 games while leading the league with 68 sacks—11 more than any other team.

Former NFL coach Phil McGeoghan noted, “That allows head coach Sean Payton to be aggressive because he knows his defense can secure possession.” He added that in the playoffs, factors like weather and injuries can play a significant role, making defensive turnovers crucial for success.

In the AFC, the Houston Texans and New England Patriots both showcased dominant defenses in their recent victories. Patriots quarterback Drake Maye will face a formidable test against the Texans, who have allowed the fewest yards per game this season. “I love the Houston defense, especially with players like Danielle Hunter and Will Anderson,” McGeoghan remarked. “They can disrupt an offense”s game plan. However, I believe the Patriots will find a way to protect Maye and he will make enough plays.”

The Rams and San Francisco 49ers both secured victories last week, making it three teams from the NFC West in the Divisional Round. The Chicago Bears have been notable for their six fourth-quarter comebacks during the regular season, but if the Rams defeat the Bears, it would set up a divisional matchup for the Conference Championships. “The Bears” slow starts might be detrimental against elite teams like the Rams,” Dragon warned. “Matt Stafford is a strong MVP candidate, and with a receiving corps that includes Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, plus a solid defense, they are a formidable opponent.”

Injuries have plagued the 49ers, who lost tight end George Kittle last week and will now visit Seattle, where quarterback Sam Darnold has limited playoff experience. Should the Seahawks win, they would host the Conference Championship at Lumen Field, known for its passionate fan base, the “12s.” “It”s probably the loudest venue I”ve been to,” Dragon stated. “Those fans are incredibly supportive, especially when the opposing offense is on the field.”

McGeoghan added, “There”s a lot of familiarity among divisional rivals, so playoff seeding becomes less relevant; the match will boil down to physicality.” The upcoming matchups promise to deliver intense competition as teams vie for a spot in the Super Bowl.

Conference seed in brackets, all kickoff times GMT:

Saturday, January 17