Sunday NFL props: Targeting rookie QBs in playoff debuts
Sunday features a three-game slate headlined by an NFC tilt between the Packers and Eagles. We’ve got you covered with six player props to supplement our AFC and NFC betting previews.
Bills vs. Broncos
Bo Nix - Over 5.5 rushing attempts (+115)
The playoffs are when you leave it all on the field, meaning quarterbacks should be more inclined to lay their bodies on the line rather than throw the ball away under pressure. At least, let's hope Bo Nix believes that.
Nix started the season running a ton, but, as he got more comfortable in an NFL pocket, he began to limit his rushing attempts. However, when the Broncos needed wins down the stretch, Nix started to use his legs again, rushing seven or more times in three of Denver's final four games. Expect Nix to tuck it and run at least six times in his playoff debut, especially since the Broncos are 8.5-point underdogs and should be forced into a pass-heavy attack early on.
Devaughn Vele - Over 2.5 receptions (-105)
Devaughn Vele isn't a premier wide receiver, but he's the Broncos' third-leading wideout. Nix has targeted Vele more as the season has progressed. The rookie has caught at least three passes in seven of his 13 games. The Bills' defensive attention will be on Courtland Sutton in the passing game, leaving opportunities for Vele. The Utah product has more catches and targets than Marvin Mims this season. Expect Vele to have a few key catches Sunday.
Eagles vs. Packers
Tucker Kraft - Over 34.5 receiving yards (-130)
Jordan Love spreads the ball around, making it tough to predict which wide receiver will have a big game. However, tight end Kraft has been a consistent target-earner all season and isn't affected by the wideout rotation the Packers like to deploy.
Christian Watson will miss the playoffs due to an ACL tear, meaning there are more targets to go around. But instead of guessing which wide receiver will benefit, we'll stick with Kraft, who's put up consistent numbers. He's surpassed 35 yards receiving in five of his last seven starts and hit 34 yards in one of the games he fell short.
Saquon Barkley - Over 104.5 rushing yards (-110)
This is a high rushing total for a playoff game, but Barkley led the league in rushing yards and became the ninth running back in NFL history to rush for over 2,000 yards. He averaged 125 rushing yards per contest.
The Eagles will lean on their physically imposing offensive line and rushing attack to control time of possession and lead them down the field. Philadelphia wins games with its rushing offense, and this one won't be different.
Jayden Reed - Under 44.5 receiving yards (-110)
Reed went nuclear in the Packers' season opener against the Eagles. He had four catches for 138 yards, but don't expect a repeat performance. Philadelphia's defense has improved dramatically since its first game and will pay plenty of attention to Reed. Star receiver Christian Watson is out for Green Bay, so it'll be easier for the Eagles' defense to contain Reed, who has recorded fewer than 45 receiving yards in five of his last seven contests.
Buccaneers vs. Commanders
Jayden Daniels - Over 224.5 passing yards (-135)
The Commanders rookie will make his highly anticipated playoff debut against the Buccaneers, whom he made his first NFL start against. Daniels only threw for 184 yards in Week 1, but a lot has changed since. Daniels has surpassed 224.5 passing yards in four of his past five full games to close the year and did it 10 times throughout the season, which should help him win the Offensive Rookie of the Year award.
The Bucs' defense does a great job of stopping the run, having given up the fourth-fewest yards during the regular season. Opposing teams have found success through the air, though. Tampa Bay gave up the fourth-most passing yards per game (243.9 yards), setting up the perfect opportunity for Daniels to hit the over on his passing yards total.