The Buffalo Bills are set to face the Jacksonville Jaguars in a wild-card playoff game at EverBank Stadium this Sunday. This matchup marks the first of three wild-card games scheduled for the day, and it presents a unique challenge for the Bills, who are accustomed to playing at home during early playoff rounds. After securing the AFC East title for five consecutive seasons, Buffalo”s streak came to an end in 2025, pushing them into a playoff scenario as the road team.
On the other hand, the Jaguars have enjoyed a successful season, finishing with a 13-4 record and clinching the AFC South title. Although Jacksonville aimed for the top seed in the conference, they ultimately settled for the No. 3 position. While the Bills boast more playoff experience, the Jaguars are proving to be a formidable opponent under the leadership of first-year head coach Liam Coen. This contest is anticipated to be competitive.
As for predictions, analysts are divided in their opinions:
- Vinnie Iyer of The Sporting News predicts a Jaguars victory, 34-27, citing their stronger overall team and the impressive performance of quarterback Trevor Lawrence compared to Josh Allen, who has faced inconsistencies this season.
- Bill Bender, also from The Sporting News, forecasts a closer game with the Bills winning 31-28, acknowledging the Jaguars” home playoff success but emphasizing Allen”s playoff potential and the significance of his experience.
In addition to Iyer and Bender, several analysts from ESPN and CBS Sports have weighed in:
- Stephania Bell: Bills
- Matt Bowen: Bills
- Mike Clay: Jaguars
- Jeremy Fowler: Bills
- Dan Graziano: Jaguars
- Kalyn Kahler: Jaguars
- Pamela Maldonado: Jaguars
- Eric Moody: Jaguars
- Jason Reid: Jaguars
- Lindsey Thiry: Bills
- Clare Brennan: Bills
- Mitch Goldich: Jaguars
- Gilberto Manzano: Bills
- Conor Orr: Bills
- John Pluym: Jaguars
- Matt Verderame: Jaguars
- Pete Prisco: Jaguars
- Jared Dubin: Bills
- Ryan Wilson: Jaguars
- John Breech: Jaguars
- Tyler Sullivan: Jaguars
- Dave Richard: Bills
- Jamey Eisenberg: Bills
In total, 11 experts have sided with the Bills, while 14 are backing the Jaguars. This wild-card matchup promises to deliver an exciting showdown as both teams vie for a crucial playoff victory.
