NFL Wild Card Playoffs
Washington +3 -102 over Tampa Bay

Pinnacle  +3 -102 BET365 +3 -110  Sportsinteraction +3 -110  888Sport +3 -110

Posted at 10:00 AM ET. Odds are subject to change.

Washington +3 over Tampa Bay

8:20 PM ET. Playoff football returns to Tampa Bay, but not without some controversy. The Buccaneers (10-7) are hosting as NFC South champions despite a worse record than the visiting Washington Commanders (12-5). Tampa Bay’s reputation as a playoff mainstay has carried over into this market, but context is critical. The Buccaneers have benefited from playing in the NFL’s weakest division, needing every last ounce of effort to secure the NFC South in Week 18. Despite Baker Mayfield’s career year, which included an impressive 41 touchdowns, the Bucs have been inconsistent against tougher competition. Yes, they’ve won six of their last seven games, but few came against high-caliber opponents, as they beat up on the Giants, Panthers (twice), Cowboys and Saints.

Meanwhile, the Commanders are riding a wave of momentum into the postseason. Winners of five straight, Washington has outperformed preseason expectations in nearly every facet of the game. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has been nothing short of spectacular, breaking records and providing a dual-threat capability that has caused headaches for opposing defenses. Head coach Dan Quinn has built a disciplined, balanced squad that is peaking at the right time.

When these teams met in Week 1, Tampa Bay rolled to a 37-20 victory, but that result feels less relevant now. Daniels was making his NFL debut, and Washington’s offense hadn’t yet found its rhythm. Tampa Bay’s defense also benefited from Daniels’ inexperience and growing pains. Fast forward to today, and this is a vastly different Commanders team, one that has since averaged 28.5 points per game (5th in the league) while tightening up defensively.

Another angle to consider is situational football. Washington has thrived on the road, going 5-3 away from home this season, and they’ve been battle-tested in high-pressure games down the stretch. Tampa Bay, despite its pedigree, has shown cracks in close contests and has been far from dominant in its home stadium.

The Commanders are playing their best football of the season, and Daniels has proven he’s ready for the moment. This is a team that can win outright, but the points being offered up here are a gift that we are happy to receive.

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Here is a wager we were paid out early on that would eventually lose. 

Sharkies

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Our Pick

Washington +3 -102 (Risking 2.04 units - To Win: 2.00)