NFL playoffs schedule: TV schedule, preview for Saturday games featuring AFC
NFL playoffs schedule: TV schedule, preview for Saturday games featuring AFC
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The NFL playoffs begin today and it works out that the two Saturday games are the two AFC games. In one game you have the "dynamic" quarterback battle of Alex Smith and Brian Hoyer, while in another you have a the Steelers and Bengals. You know you will be watching, right?
Here is the TV info you need and a quick preview.
Kansas City Chiefs at Houston Texans
Game time: 4:20 PM Eastern 2:20 PM Arizona time
TV: ESPN/ABC
The matchup to kick off Wild Card Weekend is not the prettiest, but it does have two of the hottest teams in the league. The Chiefs ended the season with a 10-game winning streak, while Houston, despite quarterback issues, won seven of their last nine, including their final three. It is the least sexy quarterback battle, with Alex Smith and Brian Hoyer. Houston seems to always play on Saturday afternoon and Kansas City hasn't won a playoff game since my youth when Joe Montana was their quarterback.
Both have great defenses and both are relying on backup running backs.
Houston will be without starting tackle Duane Brown, who suffered a torn quadriceps. They lose him with the Chiefs get Justin Houston back.
Pittsburgh Steelers at Cincinnati Bengals
Game time: 8:15 PM Eastern 6:15 PM Arizona time
TV: CBS
This matchup is a great rivalry, but isn't at full strength. Pittsburgh will be without running back DeAngelo Williams, who is the starter because they lost Le'Veon Bell earlier in the season. But the Bengals do not yet have starting quarterback Andy Dalton back, so they have A.J. McCarron starting.
The Steelers have one of the most potent passing attacks in the league, while Cincy has one of the best offenses overall. Pittsburgh also just doesn't defend well, especially down the field, and the Bengals have A.J. Green and Marvin Jones
