Richard Witt makes his predictions for Saturday’s games during the NFL playoffs’ divisional round:
RAVENS (-9.5) over Texans
You’re dealing with a considerable measure of major, redoubtable star-power here, as former unanimous MVP signal-caller Lamar Jackson comes up against Houston’s first-round draft choice.
A Ravens win would further verify Jackson’s initial AFC title game journey.
The Texans are the prototypical up-and-comer, with master shot-maker C.J. Stroud. After making his final regular-season appearance against Indianapolis a near-flawless piece of work, Stroud proceeded to make his wild-card performance against the Browns a winning one. Note: Up to this point, no rookie quarterback has yet managed to lead his team to a Super Bowl.
At this juncture, Stroud (22) has managed 63.9 percent completion rate, completing 319 of 499 passes, for 4,018 yards, making his bones confirming his No. 2 selection in last year’s NFL draft.
Snow was forecasted in Baltimore for Friday night — with temperatures at or below freezing at game time, and are expected to feel in the mid-teens. The Texans play in a retractable dome at home.
Even giving the liberal 9.5 points to the capable Texans — and Stroud’s remarkable rookie season — we still persist in favoring the imposing Ravens, with their impressive experience.
Ravens 34, Texans 21.
49ERS (-9.5) over Packers
The 49ers come into this contest as the top seed, overall, with four consecutive playoff wins over the Pack.
We grant full marks to what the Packers have managed in their autumnal defensive accomplishments — but from our view, their broad seasonal achievements are going to have to go one step beyond. Not sure they can handle that.
The Packers are the youngesr team still standing, but further surprises from Jordan Love and their defense may be needed, pronto.
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There are few things we admire more, but must favor the 49ers in the final analysis. Hoping Brock Purdy will sustain his heretofore-solid grace under pressure.
Niners 35, Packers 19.
Last week: 2-4
Season: 106-119-9