The Ultimate NAFC Playoff Preview: Breaking Down the Path to Yuma Bowl XVI
By Dale Walters and Adam Ireland
As the NAFC playoffs kick off, eight teams are set to battle for the coveted Yuma Bowl XVI title. With regular-season rivalries reigniting and fresh matchups brewing, this postseason promises to be one for the ages. Here’s an in-depth analysis of each first-round matchup, predictions for who will advance, and who might emerge as the ultimate champion.
Round 1 Matchups and Predictions
ABQ Roadrunners (7-7) @ Atlantic City Aces (10-4)
Key Players:
ABQ: Josh Allen, David Montgomery, De’Andre Swift, Jaxon Smith-Njigba
Aces: Joe Burrow, James Conner, Justin Jefferson, Trey McBride
This matchup features the underdog Roadrunners taking on the formidable Aces. The Aces dominated their Week 5 regular-season meeting, winning 144.6-103.7. With Joe Burrow’s sharp passing and Justin Jefferson’s game-breaking ability, the Aces are primed to advance. Josh Allen and ABQ’s offense will need a near-perfect outing to stand a chance.
Prediction: Atlantic City Aces win convincingly and advance to Round 2.
Seattle Heist (8-6) @ Los Angeles USMC (9-5)
Key Players:
Seattle: Brock Purdy, Jamir Gibbs, Alvin Kamara, Cooper Kupp
USMC: Lamar Jackson, Joe Mixon, Davante Adams, Isaac Gurarrod
Seattle edged out the USMC during their regular-season clash in Week 6 (130.6-123.1), showcasing their resilience. However, with Lamar Jackson leading the USMC, this game has all the makings of a thriller. The Heist will rely heavily on Brock Purdy’s poise and Alvin Kamara’s versatility to pull off another win.
Prediction: Seattle Heist squeak by in a nail-biter to move on.
Burlington Boss Hogs (8-6) @ Moscow Black Bears (8-6)
Key Players:
Boss Hogs: Saquon Barkley, Jalen Hurts, Devon Achane, Puka Nacua
Bears: Ja’Marr Chase, Patrick Mahomes, Breece Hall, Jordan Addison
In this clash of 8-6 teams, Burlington holds a psychological edge after their Week 4 win over Moscow (127.5-111.4). Patrick Mahomes will undoubtedly test the Boss Hogs’ defense, but Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley form an elite tandem. Burlington’s depth might be the deciding factor in this matchup.
Prediction: Burlington Boss Hogs edge out the Moscow Black Bears in a high-scoring affair.
El Paso Red Devils (8-6) @ Anchorage Commandos (9-5)
Key Players:
Red Devils: Sam Darnold, Chase Brown, Brian Robinson Jr., Kyren Williams
Commandos: Derrick Henry, Jayden Daniels, James Cook, A.J. Brown, Tyreek Hill
Despite El Paso’s Week 2 victory over Anchorage (127.3-116.1), the Commandos have looked stronger as the season progressed. Tyreek Hill’s explosiveness and Derrick Henry’s bruising runs make Anchorage a tough out. The Red Devils will need a heroic performance from Kyren Williams to keep their Yuma Bowl hopes alive.
Prediction: Anchorage Commandos prevail in a hard-fought battle.
Projected Round 2 Matchups and Yuma Bowl XVI Champion
Round 2 Predictions
- Atlantic City Aces vs. Seattle Heist: The Aces’ firepower overwhelms Seattle’s defense, punching their ticket to the Yuma Bowl.
- Burlington Boss Hogs vs. Anchorage Commandos: Burlington’s balanced attack proves too much for Anchorage, setting up a heavyweight showdown in the Yuma Bowl.
Yuma Bowl XVI Prediction
In the championship game, the Atlantic City Aces will square off against the Burlington Boss Hogs. While both teams have star-studded rosters, the Boss Hogs’ depth and versatility give them the edge. Jalen Hurts leads Burlington to victory, earning the Yuma Bowl XVI crown.
Champion: Burlington Boss Hogs
League Insight
Here’s what the league thinks about the playoffs, based on a survey of the teams:
| Question | Top Responses |
|---|---|
| Which team has the best chance to win Yuma Bowl XVI? | Boss Hogs, Boss Hogs, El Paso, USMC, USMC, Moscow, Seattle (but don’t underestimate El Paso), Austin |
| Which team would you wish NOT to see in the playoffs? | Boss Hogs, ABQ, ABQ, El Paso, WE DO NOT FEAR ANY TEAM, Seattle/Moscow, ABQ, Austin |
| Which team is on upset alert in Round 1? | Aces, Moscow, Moscow, Anchorage, Anchorage, Anchorage, Aces, ABQ |
| Most thrilling Round 1 matchup? | Seattle @ USMC, El Paso @ Anchorage, Burlington @ Moscow, Seattle @ USMC, El Paso @ Anchorage |
As the playoffs unfold, the drama, rivalries, and standout performances will define the path to Yuma Bowl XVI. One thing is certain: the road to glory won’t be easy for any team. Stay tuned for updates as the action heats up!
