Packers: Best-, worst-case scenarios for each round of playoffs
Divisional round
The Packers can play one of three teams in the divisional round. They will host either the New Orleans Saints (third seed), Philadelphia Eagles (fourth) or Seattle Seahawks (fifth).
Best-case scenario: Eagles
The Eagles might be the fourth seed and they are the only road team to secure a victory at Lambeau Field this season, but this would be the most favorable matchup for the Packers.
While the Eagles do enter the playoffs on the back of a four-game winning streak, that includes two games against the New York Giants and one against the Washington Redskins. Those four opponents went a combined 19-45.
Philadelphia finished 9-7 and is dealing with injuries to key players including star tight end Zach Ertz, who could miss the remainder of the season.
Worst-case scenario: Saints
The Saints matched the Packers’ 13-3 record and took the third seed. New Orleans boasts the league’s third-best scoring offense powered by future Hall-of-Fame quarterback Drew Brees and superstar wide receiver Michael Thomas, who broke the NFL’s all-time single-season record for receptions in 2019.
The Saints also rank fourth in rushing defense, which could make a difference in the playoffs.
However, this matchup taking place in Green Bay instead of New Orleans would make a significant difference. Instead of the Packers defense having to slow down a dominant Saints offense inside a dome, they’d get the benefit of playing in frozen, night-time conditions at Lambeau Field that they’re used to.
But the Saints are the best team playing on Wild Card Weekend, and this would make for a challenging matchup.