The NFL playoffs are heating up, and the schedule for the 2025 Divisional Round is officially set! While one of the games still depends on the outcome of a crucial match, we already know the time, date, and network for all the exciting matchups next weekend. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just in it for the excitement, these games promise to deliver the drama, tension, and jaw-dropping plays we've come to expect from the NFL's postseason. Here’s everything you need to know about the upcoming Divisional Round games.
Saturday, January 18: The Action Kicks Off!
The Divisional Round kicks off with two thrilling games, each showcasing top-tier teams vying for their place in the championship picture. Saturday’s lineup is packed with matchups that could easily shift the momentum of the playoffs, and fans will definitely want to tune in.
Houston Texans at Kansas City Chiefs
Time: Saturday, 4:30 p.m. Eastern
Network: ESPN
The Kansas City Chiefs are ready to roll after a well-earned bye week, and their quest for NFL history begins here. They’re aiming to become the first team in league history to win three consecutive Super Bowls, and their first test comes against the Houston Texans. Houston has been no slouch, though. The Texans are coming off a dominant 32-12 victory over the Los Angeles Chargers, advancing to the Divisional Round for the second consecutive year.
These two teams met earlier in the season during Week 16, with the Chiefs securing a 27-19 win. But that was then. With the playoff stakes even higher, expect both squads to bring their A-game. Kansas City will rely on the brilliance of Patrick Mahomes and the explosive offense that’s been tearing it up all season, but the Texans, led by their young quarterback, will be looking to spring a surprise and prove they’re more than just a Cinderella story.
Washington Commanders at Detroit Lions
Time: Saturday, 8:00 p.m. Eastern
Network: FOX
Next up, the Washington Commanders are looking to continue their surprising playoff run when they travel to Detroit to face the Lions. The Lions, despite enduring a season filled with injuries, have managed to stay competitive and enter the Divisional Round with hopes of securing a Super Bowl spot. However, they may have needed this bye week more than most, especially as key players like running back David Montgomery and defensive star Aidan Hutchinson are hoping to return to the field. Hutchinson, though, might be a long shot to make it back in time.
Washington, on the other hand, enters this matchup on a high, having knocked off the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-20 in a dramatic playoff win. This victory marked the franchise's first postseason win since the 2005 NFL season. Can the Commanders keep the momentum going and upset the Lions on their home turf? This game is shaping up to be a must-watch for any fan of underdog stories.
Sunday, January 19: The Weekend Reaches Its Peak
Arguably one of the best weekends in the NFL calendar, Sunday’s matchups will provide some of the most electrifying football action we’ve seen all season. The Divisional Round wraps up with two more games that should keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Los Angeles Rams at Philadelphia Eagles
Time: Sunday, 3:00 p.m. Eastern
Network: NBC
The Philadelphia Eagles are flying high after their impressive 22-10 victory over the Green Bay Packers, and they’ll look to continue their postseason journey against the Los Angeles Rams. The Eagles' defense was the real star in their win, intercepting Packers quarterback Jordan Love three times. With the team firing on all cylinders, they’ll be looking to make a statement in front of their home crowd.
But the Rams won’t make it easy. They advanced to the Divisional Round with a decisive win over the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night. Los Angeles will be coming in hot, and they’re led by an offense capable of breaking through even the toughest defenses. With superstars on both sides of the ball, this matchup could go down to the wire, with both teams fighting for a spot in the NFC Championship.
Baltimore Ravens at Buffalo Bills
Time: Sunday, 6:30 p.m. Eastern
Network: CBS
The Sunday night finale promises to be a classic. The Baltimore Ravens and the Buffalo Bills will square off in a highly anticipated rematch from Week 5, where Baltimore handed Buffalo a dominant 35-10 loss. Both teams have come a long way since then, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
The Ravens come into the game after a solid 28-14 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, while the Bills cruised past the Denver Broncos with a 31-7 victory. Now, both teams are eager to prove they have what it takes to go all the way. But beyond the team narratives, this game also features the two leading MVP candidates: quarterbacks Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson.
Allen and Jackson have been two of the most exciting and unpredictable quarterbacks in the league this season, both capable of making game-changing plays with their arms and legs. Watching these two battle it out for supremacy on the biggest stage of the season is sure to be a treat for any football fan.
Key Takeaways for the Divisional Round
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Super Bowl Aspirations: The Chiefs are aiming to make NFL history by securing their third straight Super Bowl win. With a solid roster led by Mahomes, they are favorites, but the Texans are no slouches either.
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Injuries Impacting the Lions: Detroit enters the Divisional Round with hopes of healing up and getting key players back into the mix. Aidan Hutchinson’s availability will be a big question, but they still boast a competitive team.
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Washington’s Playoff Surprise: The Commanders have already made waves by reaching the Divisional Round, and they’ll be looking to continue their Cinderella run against the Lions.
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High Stakes in Baltimore: The Ravens vs. Bills game will be a rematch with huge playoff implications. Expect fireworks as MVP contenders Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen go head-to-head.
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Eagles Defense Rising: Philadelphia’s defense showed its true colors in their win over Green Bay, and they’ll need to keep up that momentum against the Rams.
As we head into the 2025 NFL Playoffs, the Divisional Round promises to bring high drama and electrifying plays to your TV screens. Whether you're rooting for the underdog or cheering on a powerhouse, there's something for every fan in this weekend's matchups. With so much on the line, every game has the potential to be a classic. Make sure you're ready to witness all the action—this is where legends are made!
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