NFL Divisional Round MMQB: Bengals’ Lack of Respect, 49ers’ Defense Stars

Welcome to the divisional round of the playoffs. We are trying things a little differently at The MMQB this year with Albert Breer’s Monday-morning column, publishing items as separate stories throughout the morning. Below are links to everything Albert wrote about this round, plus more from our staff.

The Bengals Know They’re a Superpower, Even If Others Can’t Believe It

Joe Burrow and the Bengals looked quite at home in a snowy playoff atmosphere in Buffalo.
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“We won the AFC championship last year. We’ve won 10 games in a row. We’re here. Whatever you want to make of it doesn’t matter.”

Zac Taylor tells Albert Breer that the Bengals know who they are, even if the rest of the world is still catching up

Eagles Lose Themselves In the Moment—and Own It—Against Giants

Nick Sirianni has the Eagles hosting the NFC title game in his second season.
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Albert Breer talks to veteran defensive leader Brandon Graham about how Philadelphia responded to its coach’s inspirational video and advanced to the NFC championship. Also inside: Conversations with Andy Reid and Chad Henne about how the Chiefs proved they’re more than just Patrick Mahomes.

Divisional Round Takeaways: Inside the 49ers’ Big Day Against Big D, Understanding Patriots Staff Changes

The 49ers’ defensive stars stepped up on a day when Brock Purdy’s offense didn’t light up the scoreboard.
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Albert Breer talks to linebacker Fred Warner about how San Francisco picked off Dak Prescott twice and the Cowboys’ “very bizarre” play to end the game. Plus the rest of the takeaways including a deep dive into the changes on the Patriots’ staff.

Six From Saturday: Projecting the Top Six Picks of the 2023 NFL Draft

There are many reasons to believe the Bears would take Jalen Carter No. 1.
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Albert Breer gives a mini mock draft, along with his latest notes on player declarations and NIL.

NFL Coaching Carousel: What We’re Hearing on Cardinals, Texans, Colts, Broncos

Sean Payton has loomed over the entire coach hiring cycle, but the longer it drags out the more likely he might not return to the NFL this year.
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The playoffs and league rules are slowing down the process with five head coach openings and more than 10 offensive and defensive coordinator positions still available. Here is the latest on what Albert Breer is hearing.