The NFL playoffs are here, and the action-packed Wild Card Weekend features several former Kentucky Wildcats making an impact on the league's biggest stage. Whether they're starting, contributing on special teams, or serving as key depth players, these Wildcats are ready to showcase their skills. Here's a breakdown of the games to watch and the storylines involving Kentucky alumni.
AFC Playoffs
(5) Los Angeles Chargers at (4) Houston Texans
Prediction- Chargers upset Texans
Saturday, 4:30 p.m. ET | CBS
- Bud Dupree (Chargers): The veteran linebacker is still a disruptive force on defense. Dupree logged 6 sacks and an interception during the regular season, making him a key player to watch as the Chargers face the Texans and CJ Stroud.
(6) Pittsburgh Steelers at (3) Baltimore Ravens
Prediction Steelers upset Ravens
Saturday, 8 p.m. ET | Amazon Prime
- Devin Leary (Ravens, Practice Squad)
(7) Denver Broncos at (2) Buffalo Bills
Prediction Bills knock out Broncos
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET | CBS
- Keidron Smith (Broncos, Practice Squad)
- Ray Davis (Bills): A bruising running back, Davis finished his rookie season with 442 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns, with 3 more through the air. Look for him to play a role in short-yardage and goal-line situations against the Broncos.
(1) Kansas City Chiefs (Bye Week)
NFC Playoffs
(7) Green Bay Packers at (2) Philadelphia Eagles
Prediction Green Bay upsets Philly
Sunday, 4:30 p.m. ET | FOX
- Carrington Valentine (Packers): Valentine has emerged as a key defensive back, recording 32 tackles and 2 interceptions in his rookie season. Can he make a game-changing play against the Eagles?
- Darian Kinnard (Eagles): A backup RT for the Eagles, has some a few snaps behind Lane Johnson.
(6) Washington Commanders at (3) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Prediction Bucs roll
Sunday, 8 p.m. ET | NBC
- Chris Rodriguez Jr. (Commanders): Rodriguez, a rookie running back probably wont see too much time in the playoffs.
- Mike Edwards (Buccaneers): Edwards, a seasoned safety with 2 Super Bowl rings is known for his playmaking ability.
- Liam Coen (Buccaneers) - Former offensive coordinator.
(5) Minnesota Vikings at (4) Los Angeles Rams
Prediction Vikings win
Monday, 8 p.m. ET | ESPN/ABC
- Jeremy Flax (Vikings, Practice Squad/IR)
(1) Detroit Lions (Bye Week)
- Za’Darius Smith and Josh Paschal: The Lions earned the NFC’s top seed, thanks in part to their dynamic defensive duo. Smith racked up 4 sacks this season, while Paschal contributed 2.
Wildcats in the Spotlight
From veterans like Bud Dupree and Mike Edwards to rising stars like Carrington Valentine., Kentucky alumni are making their mark in the NFL playoffs. Tune in to see how these former Wildcats perform as they chase Super Bowl glory.