A target engine speed module selectively sets M target engine speeds for M future times, respectively, based on one of increasing and decreasing an engine speed. A prediction module, based on a set of possible target values for the M future times and a model of an engine, determines M predicted engine speeds for the M future times, respectively. A cost module determines a cost for the set of possible target values based on comparisons of the M predicted engine speeds for the M future times with the M target engine speeds for the M future times, respectively. A selection module, based on the cost, selects the set of possible target values from a group including the set of possible target values and N other sets of possible target values, and sets target values based on the selected set of possible target values. An actuator module controls an engine actuator based on a first one of the target values.