The Manhattan Jaspers are set to host the Niagara Purple Eagles on Saturday at Draddy Gymnasium in Riverdale, New York. Both teams enter the matchup with identical overall records of 7-8. In Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) play, Manhattan stands at 1-2, while Niagara is 2-2. Manhattan is looking to rebound from a 65-68 loss to Rider on January 12. Niagara aims to recover after a 62-69 defeat against Mount St. Mary's on the same date. Niagara is led by Justice Smith a versatile guard, Smith has been initiating offense effectively, leading the team in assists. He has scored at least 13 points in five of his last seven games, showcasing his scoring ability. Manhattan is paced by Will Sydnor, a standout freshman, Sydnor has made significant contributions this season and is a strong candidate for Freshman of the Year in the MAAC. Scoring Offense: Manhattan averages 68.0 points per game, while Niagara scores 77.8 points per game. Defense: Manhattan allows 77.8 points per game, whereas Niagara concedes 68.0 points per game. This MAAC matchup features two teams eager to improve their conference standings. Manhattan's offense, led by freshman standout Will Sydnor, will challenge Niagara's defense. Home court should play a big part in this matchup. I'll take Manhattan.

The Kansas City Chiefs (15-2) will host the Houston Texans (11-7) in the AFC Divisional Round on Saturday at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. The Chiefs aim for a historic third consecutive Super Bowl appearance. Despite their impressive record, they have a +59 point differential, indicating several close games throughout the season. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes leads the offense, bolstered by tight end Travis Kelce, who has been encouraged to continue playing amid retirement rumors. The offensive line has faced challenges, particularly at left tackle, which the Texans may seek to exploit. The Texans secured their spot in the Divisional Round with a 32-12 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. Their defense, featuring lineman Denico Autry, will be crucial in applying pressure on Mahomes, especially considering the Chiefs' offensive line vulnerabilities. Offensively, quarterback C.J. Stroud has adapted to a quick-pass, power-gap scheme, aiming to neutralize dominant defenders like Chris Jones. Marquise Brown (Chiefs): After missing most of the season due to injury, Brown's return adds depth to the Chiefs' receiving corps. His performance could be pivotal. 

There is also an interesting angle that comes up in this matchup between the Chiefs and Texans. The angle reads: "Play against any NFL Divisional Round away team coming off an outright home underdog win in the Wild Card round." This angle is 15-2 ATS (88%) since 1981 and it happens again on Saturday. 

Take The Chiefs as your Divisional Game of the Year!

The Kansas City Chiefs (15-2) host the Houston Texans (11-7) in a highly anticipated AFC Divisional Round matchup. While the Chiefs enter as heavy favorites, this game has the potential to be more defensive than anticipated, making a compelling case for betting on the under for the point totals. Both teams feature defensive units capable of dictating the pace of the game. The Chiefs' defense has been one of their biggest strengths this season, allowing only 18.2 points per game (5th in the league). Chris Jones anchors a strong pass rush that thrives in high-pressure moments, while the secondary, led by L'Jarius Sneed and Trent McDuffie, has been efficient at shutting down top receivers. Houston's defensive front, spearheaded by Denico Autry, has shown the ability to exploit weak offensive lines. This could be pivotal against the Chiefs' inconsistent protection on Patrick Mahomes' blindside. Houston allowed only 21 points in their Wild Card win over the Chargers, showcasing their ability to contain explosive offenses. Kansas City, despite its offensive firepower, has leaned on longer, sustained drives this season, averaging fewer explosive plays compared to previous years. This controlled pace aligns with head coach Andy Reid’s playoff philosophy of limiting turnovers and managing the clock. January football in Kansas City often brings cold and windy conditions. Early forecasts for Saturday suggest temperatures in the mid-30s with a chance of wind gusts exceeding 15 mph. Such conditions could hinder downfield passing, leading to more conservative play calling and reduced scoring opportunities.  I expect the Chiefs to hold down this Texans offense and the game to go UNDER.

The Washington Commanders (12-5) are set to face the Detroit Lions (15-2) in the NFC Divisional Round on Saturday at Ford Field in Detroit, Michigan. Under first-year head coach Dan Quinn, the Commanders have experienced a significant turnaround, culminating in their first postseason victory in 19 years, a 23-20 win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has been instrumental in this success, demonstrating poise and dual-threat capabilities. Offensive Coordinator Kliff Kingsbury has implemented a high-octane offense, emphasizing a strong running game and innovative strategies, including pre-snap motions and play-action passes. Running backs Brian Robinson Jr. and Austin Ekeler have been key contributors, though recent performances have seen a slight dip. Defensively, Coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. employs a 4-2-5 base scheme with a reliance on blitzing to generate pressure. While effective in disrupting opposing quarterbacks, this approach has shown vulnerabilities against the run, which opponents may seek to exploit. The Lions have had a stellar season, finishing with a 15-2 record and securing the top seed in the NFC. Quarterback Jared Goff leads an efficient offense, complemented by a strong running game featuring Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery. Gibbs, in particular, has been a standout performer, contributing significantly in recent games. Defensively, the Lions have faced challenges due to injuries, notably to key pass-rusher Aidan Hutchinson. Veteran Za'Darius Smith has stepped up in Hutchinson's absence, providing much-needed pressure on opposing quarterbacks. This matchup features two teams with contrasting strengths: the Commanders' creative offense against the Lions' balanced and resilient play. I believe this is the Lions season to make it all the way to the Super Bowl and they will win and cover here on Saturday. Play Detroit.