The 2013 NFL Big 5: Wild Card Weekend

It’s playoff time, and the matchups are top-notch.

The new NFL week is here and with it comes chaos. Fortunately, Maxim is here to help you navigate these uncharted waters with five predictions that will undoubtedly (or just maybe) come true.

Big Upset – New Orleans over Philadelphia

The Eagles are actually favored in this game – which is a little surprising even given the fact that they’re home and it’s cold. And despite their recent form, we’re going to assume that Sean Peyton has a bit of an issue with that. We’re also going to assume that Drew Brees will take advantage of that issue.

Big Performance – Aaron Rodgers

After a bit of a stumble out of the gate in his first game back from injury this week, Rodgers was able to finish off the Bears with a spectacular play that can only be described as “just an average day for Aaron Rodgers.” He’ll get a game at home this weekend to show that he’s back to full strength, and even though the 49ers are all sorts of hot and tend to pick on the Pack, A-Rod will make sure that the Packers don’t become a playoff afterthought.

Big Flop – Nick Foles

Nick Foles had a decent outing against the Cowboys, but their pass rush gave him a little bit to think about. The unproven rookies may be trying to buy his safety, but, as we hinted at above, he’ll have to put up serious numbers to keep pace with the Saints offense.

Big Storyline – Blackouts Looming

No, not like the one in New Orleans. Three out of the four playoff games have yet to sell out, leaving the unspeakable prospect of home fans not being able to see the games on their local broadcasts. This is absolutely unbelievable – who in their right mind would want to sit in a warm home in front of a plate of wings and a big screen TV instead of hike out to a stadium in sub-zero temperatures drinking $13 beers while looking at the action a mile and a half away? Oh, most people? Fair enough.

Big Stinker – San Diego at Cincinnati 

The closest thing to a game you can skip this weekend is the Chargers’, who made the playoffs by the grace of God (and Ryan Succop’s foot) and now have to travel to Cincy and go up against their very formidable defense (and reliable kicker). If you need to put in some quality time with the family, this is your shot. 

Photos by David Banks/ Getty Images | Licensed to Alpha Media Group 2014