Saturday NFL props: Can Steelers limit Jackson on the ground?
NFL playoff action begins Saturday with a two-game slate between AFC contestants. The games have the two lowest point totals of Wild Card Weekend, but that doesn't mean there aren't any player props to target in what should be a couple of defensive - yet entertaining - matchups.
Texans vs. Chargers
Ladd McConkey - Over 5.5 receptions (-140)
The rookie leads the Chargers in receptions by 27 after emerging as Justin Herbert's No. 1 target a few games into the season. McConkey hauled in six or more passes in six of his last 10 contests, and he caught fewer than five only once over that span. He's a target hog, and in a must-win game, there's no reason to believe Herbert won't look McConkey's way enough times for him to hit six receptions.
J.K. Dobbins - Over 61.5 rushing yards (-115)
Herbert must make plays with his arm for the Chargers to win, but they'll lean on a steady run game that has helped the offense throughout the campaign. Dobbins has been the go-to guy in the backfield amid the best season of his career. He's averaging 69.6 rushing yards per game and has eclipsed 62 rushing yards his last two contests.
This isn't expected to be a high-scoring game based on the 42.5 total because both groups have sturdy defenses. However, the Texans' defensive strength is against the pass. Dobbins will rack up the necessary carries as Los Angeles tries to win the possession battle on the ground.
Ravens vs. Steelers
Russell Wilson - Over 199.5 passing yards (-145)
The Steelers aren't expected to win this game and should play from behind most of the time. That means they'll likely be forced to pass, especially against a Ravens defense that allowed the fewest rushing yards per game this season. Wilson should have a great chance at throwing for over 200 yards, something he did in both meetings with the Ravens this year and in seven of 11 games overall.
Lamar Jackson - Under 48.5 rushing yards (-105)
Mike Tomlin has successfully devised game plans to limit Jackson. Those strategies include restricting his rushing ability. Jackson has a losing record against the Steelers, and they're the only team he's thrown more interceptions than touchdowns against.
The Steelers' defense wants to turn Jackson into a passer instead of a runner. He's rushed for under 49 yards in his last three matchups against Pittsburgh. Even when Jackson dominated the Steelers in December, he rushed for 22 yards. Regardless of the final score, don't expect Jackson to have a huge running day.