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The Divisional round of the NFL playoffs is here, and our Buffalo Bills are set to host the Baltimore Ravens in Orchard Park. Four Downs is here to get you ready for kickoff, in the marquee matchup this weekend.
A matchup meant for prime time
Say what you want about the slate of playoff games taking place this weekend, but the matchup between the Bills and the Ravens is the most exciting of the bunch. The focal point for Saturday’s game is set squarely on the quarterbacks—with Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson taking center stage for their respective teams. The young quarterbacks took turns this week sharing compliments about one another—a sign of genuine respect that they share. Both Allen and Jackson are 24-years old, and this could become one of the most entertaining rivalries in the NFL for years to come.
Brian Daboll is still on the market—for now
While the New York Jets and Atlanta Falcons have filled their head-coaching vacancies, Brian Daboll still remains on the market. Fans hoping that Daboll remains in Buffalo will still have to sweat it out, as the offensive coordinator remains a candidate for multiple openings. My guess remains that Daboll will be the next head coach of the Los Angeles Chargers, but time will tell if he ends up leaving the Bills.
Pod of the Week
My favorite listen this week comes from Bruce Nolan, in Thursday’s edition of The Bruce Exclusive. While there was plenty to discuss about the Bills and the playoffs, Bruce does a fantastic job comparing the play of Ed Oliver to that of Dion Dawkins (circa 2018). Despite a bit of a sophomore slump, Dawkins has rebounded nicely thanks to an upgrade along the offensive line. The same consideration should be given to Oliver in light of Star Lotulelei’s opt out this season. You can give the episode a listen here.
Prediction: Bills 35, Ravens 28
As mentioned earlier, I expect this game to be a matchup of two heavyweight contenders in the AFC. Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs lead the way, with Devin Singletary playing a big role in the passing game. Go Bills!