NFL Pro wild card preview: Critical insights on all 6 games

The NFL Wild Card Round features six pivotal matchups with key players and strategies highlighted.

Matthew Stafford's performance from a clean pocket will be crucial as the Rams face the Panthers. Stafford, a potential MVP, set a record with 42 touchdowns from a clean pocket in 2025. The Panthers, despite a low pressure rate, managed a win against the Rams in Week 13 by effectively utilizing limited pressure opportunities.

The Green Bay Packers face the Bears without star linebacker Micah Parsons. Caleb Williams' efficiency improved significantly in Week 16 against the Packers, partly due to Parsons' absence. The Packers need to adjust defensively to stop Williams and end their four-game losing streak.

Jacksonville's ground game, led by Travis Etienne and Trevor Lawrence, faces a vulnerable Bills run defense. The Bills have struggled against the run, ranking among the worst in yards per carry and rushing yards allowed. Jacksonville's recent success has been through the air, but the Bills' defensive weaknesses could be exploited on