5 things that will decide NFL Wild Card Weekend feat. Sam Darnold's first playoff game

The wild-card weekend of the NFL playoffs has arrived as 14 teams will set out on their quest for a Super Bowl ring. It starts with a six-game slate spread across three days of action in a single-elimination tournament. Here are five factors that will have a major impact on the outcomes of the games this week.

Wild Card weekend key factors that could determine outcomes

Wild Card factors (GETTY)

#1 - Jayden Daniels' rookie status

Jayden Daniels had a spectacular rookie season for the Washington Commanders this year. He now enters a favorable matchup against a weak Tampa Bay Buccaneers passing defense, so he will have an opportunity to shine. Rookie quarterbacks have often struggled in the playoffs, but if he can shine, they could pull off an upset on wild-card weekend.

#2 - Key injuries in Eagles vs Packers game

The injury report for the Philadelphia Eagles and Green Bay Packers could directly impact the game's outcome. Both teams are dealing with injuries to their quarterbacks, with Jalen Hurts and Jordan Love being listed as questionable. AJ Brown is also questionable to play, while Christian Watson has already been ruled out, so health is a major factor for this game.

#3 - Sam Darnold's debut in NFL playoffs

Sam Darnold has been one of the biggest breakout players of the 2024 NFL season after unexpectedly becoming the starting quarterback of the Minnesota Vikings. He helped the team to an impressive 14-3 record, making them a dangerous wild-card team this year.

The issue is his inexperience as he will be making his postseason debut. So, how he performs under the brighter lights may determine the winner of their game against the Los Angeles Rams.

#4 - Lamar Jackson's struggle against Steelers

Lamar Jackson has already won two NFL MVP awards for the Baltimore Ravens and is one of the favorites to win another one this year. One of the only teams he has consistently struggled against in his career is the Pittsburgh Steelers, whom he will face this weekend. His 2-4 record against them, with just eight touchdown passes and nine interceptions, puts his team on upset alert.

#5 - Buccaneers' rushing attack

While Baker Mayfield has been in the spotlight for the Buccaneers, their rushing attack has been one of the key factors to their success. They rank fourth in the NFL in rushing yards per game and get a favorable matchup against the Commanders' 30th-ranked rushing defense. Exploiting this situation could be their key to advancing past the wild-card round.