NFL playoffs 2019: Eagles vs. Bears, Cowboys vs. Seahawks | NFC Wild Card preview, predictions, picks

The 2019 NFL playoffs begin on Saturday, with an NFC wild-card game between quarterback Dak Prescott and the NFC East champion Dallas Cowboys against quarterback Russell Wilson and the Seattle Seahawks. On Sunday, quarterback Mitchell Trubisky and the NFC North champion Chicago Bears host Nick Foles and the defending Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles.

Here’s a preview of both games, including key matchups, X-factors and picks and predictions for each game.

When: Sat. Jan. 5, 2019

Time: 8:15 p.m. 

Where: AT&T Stadium, Arlington, Texas

Channel: FOX

Line: Cowboys -2.5

Seahawks front-seven vs. Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott: It’s no secret that the Dallas Cowboys offense functions best when it is funneled through running back Ezekiel Elliott. Elliott won the NFL’s rushing title this season with 1,434 yards and six touchdowns. If the Cowboys are able to establish the run early with Elliott and set the tone, it could be a long night for the Seahawks’ defense. However, Seattle allowed average of 113.2 yards per game. If the Seahawks keep Elliott under 100 rushing yards, they have a good chance of advancing. 

Cowboys QB Dak Prescott vs. Seahawks’ secondary: Prescott enters the playoffs riding the high of his signature performance of the 2018 season. Passing for a season-high four touchdowns and 387 yards in a thrilling last-second victory over the Giants, Prescott offered a glimpse of what the Cowboys offense is capable of in the absence of Elliott. The Seahawks are vulnerable through the air, allowing an average of 240 yards passing per game.