On January 12, 2025, the Green Bay Packers (11-6) are set to take on the Philadelphia Eagles (14-3) in the NFC Wild Card round at Lincoln Financial Field in Philly. This game is a big deal since both teams are fighting for a chance to move on in the playoffs. The Eagles want to build on their impressive regular season, while the Packers are looking to pull off an upset against a higher-seeded opponent.
Philadelphia Eagles
The Eagles are heading into this playoff game on a high note after an amazing regular season, wrapping it up with a franchise-best 14 wins. In their most recent game, they took down the New York Giants 20-13, giving some of their key players a break. Quarterback Tanner McKee really shined, passing for 269 yards and tossing two touchdowns. This season, the Eagles’ offense has been on fire, averaging 27.1 points per game and coming in fifth for total yards with 386.2.
The Eagles owe a big part of their success to their well-rounded offensive strategy. Running back Saquon Barkley, who has racked up more than 2,000 rushing yards this season, is a key player in their game plan. His skills in breaking tackles and picking up extra yards after contact keeps defenses on their toes. Plus, the receiving group, spearheaded by A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith, gives McKee dependable targets that can really open up the field.
Green Bay Packers
The Packers head into this matchup on a bit of a downer after dropping their last regular-season game to the Chicago Bears, 24-22. Quarterback Malik Willis had a tough time, racking up only 136 passing yards and one touchdown, and he really struggled to find his rhythm. Still, it’s worth noting that the Packers averaged 27.1 points per game this season, highlighting their offensive firepower when they’re at full strength.
Injuries have really hit Green Bay hard this season, especially with important players like Jordan Love and Christian Watson dealing with issues. It’s still up in the air whether they’ll be able to play in this game, and their absence could change how the Packers approach their offense. Emanuel Wilson will have to rise to the occasion and deliver a solid running game to take some of the pressure off Willis.
Key Matchups
Quarterback Battle
The success of both quarterbacks is going to be key in deciding how this game plays out. Tanner McKee will really need to step up and handle the pressure against a tough Packers defense that’s pretty solid, only giving up an average of 19.9 points per game. If McKee can find those mismatches and link up with his receivers, it might just give Philadelphia the edge they need.
Malik Willis needs to figure out how to handle Philadelphia’s tough defense and deliver his passes at the right moments. While his ability to move around is a plus, he really has to steer clear of turnovers to keep Green Bay in the game.
Running Game
The Eagles have one of the top rushing games in the league, spearheaded by Saquon Barkley. With more than 2,000 rushing yards this season, Barkley is a key player not just for running the ball but also as a solid receiver from the backfield. The Packers’ defense has to keep an eye on him while also dealing with Will Shipley’s ability to make plays.
Green Bay’s running game is really going to depend on how Emanuel Wilson performs. If he can get into a groove early and pick up some good yardage against Philadelphia’s tough defense, it’ll create chances for Willis to shine in the passing game.
Betting Odds
The Eagles are expected to win this game by about 4.5 points, thanks to their solid home-field advantage and impressive season record.
Sports Betting Ace’s Final Score Prediction: Philadelphia Eagles 25 – Green Bay Packers 20
This forecast is based on statistical analysis that indicates a tight matchup but leans towards Philadelphia because of their better record and strong defense as they head into this playoff showdown. The result will depend on how well both teams can stick to their game plans and handle their star players when the pressure is on.