NFL Divisional Round Roundup

The Divisional Round of the 2024/25 NFL season is history, after four outstanding games, we already know the four teams that will be present in the Conference Finals.

Once again, the Lions were unable to play at their best and fell short in their attempt to return to the Super Bowl. On this occasion, they lost to the Commanders with a score of 31-45, even though they were big favorites to advance to the next round.

Likewise, the rest of the favorites, the Chiefs, Eagles, and Bills, all won their games to get one step closer to winning the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

The reality is that we will have two intense conference finals games, as the four teams that remain alive in the season have shown an amazing level of play so far.

NFL Divisional Round Roundup: Chiefs vs. Texans

In the AFC NFL playoff showdown at GEHA Field Stadium in Arrowhead, the Kansas City Chiefs took on the Houston Texans amid freezing temperatures that reached -13°C (-13°F). The game began with a low-scoring first half, with the Chiefs securing two field goals and the Texans making one, resulting in a score of 6-3.

The second half saw standout performances from Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, leading to a final score of 23-14 when the Texans missed two field goals and an extra point. The Chiefs secured their spot in the AFC finals for the seventh consecutive year, where they will face the winner of the game between the Buffalo Bills or Baltimore Ravens.

Travis Kelce had seven receptions for 117 yards and a touchdown. Mahomes completed 16-of-25 passes for 177 yards and a touchdown to Kelce, while kicker Harrison Butker contributed three field goals and two extra points.

Defensively, George Karlaftis shined for the Chiefs, catching the Texans quarterback three times. Head Coach Andy Reid celebrated his 300th career victory, becoming the fourth coach to reach this milestone.

Result: Chiefs (23) – (14) Texans

NFL Divisional Round Roundup: Lions vs. Commanders

The Commanders pulled off an upset victory over the Detroit Lions by a score of 45-31 in the NFC Divisional Round playoffs, securing their spot in the NFC Championship Game against the Philadelphia Eagles.

Washington’s defense, led by Dan Quinn, was particularly impressive, intercepting four passes, three by Jared Goff and one by Jameson Williams, and forcing one fumble. Quarterback Jayden Daniels became the sixth rookie to reach the Conference Championship Game, following in the footsteps of players like Ben Roethlisberger and Joe Flacco.

Washington’s aggressive style of play was evident from the start, as they attempted fourth-down conversions several times. Although they missed one attempt, their persistence paid off as they converted three of four fourth-down plays.

The Commanders took control in the second quarter, scoring 28 points with contributions from Brian Robinson, Quan Martin, Jayden Daniels, Terry McLaurin, and Zach Ertz. Despite the Lions’ efforts to keep up, the Commanders maintained their lead, and an interception by Mike Sainristil further solidified their advantage.

Detroit made some late comeback attempts, scoring a few more touchdowns, but ultimatelyit was Washington’s defense, including a key interception by Jeremy Chinn, that sealed the victory.

Result: Lions (31) – (45) Commanders

NFL Divisional Round Roundup: Eagles vs. Rams

Philadelphia secured a spot in the NFC Championship game by defeating the Rams by a score of 28-22. This victory puts them in the running for their fifth conference title, their first since 2023.

The game started with the Eagles taking the lead in the first quarter, with highlight plays from Jalen Hurts and Saquon Barkley. Despite an intense back-and-forth game, the Rams managed to keep it close, with both teams showing strong offensive and defensive performances.

As the game progressed, the snowfall added challenge, leading to tougher defensive plays and a tighter game in the third quarter. However, strong offensive efforts by Philadelphia, including a crucial play by Barkley, allowed them to pull ahead and eventually reach a 28-15 lead.

The Rams pressed late in the final quarter, cutting the gap to 28-22 with just over two minutes on the clock. They came close to scoring again but came up short, securing the Eagles’ place in the title game against Washington next Sunday at home.

Result: Eagles (28) – (22) Rams

NFL Divisional Round Roundup: Bills vs. Ravens

The Buffalo Bills emerged victorious by a 27-25 score over the Baltimore Ravens at Highmark Stadium in a thrilling battle between MVP-caliber quarterbacks. Lamar Jackson’s team nearly forced overtime, but a missed two-point conversion by Mark Andrews sealed the Ravens’ fate.

Josh Allen showed off his skills with two touchdowns on the ground and 127 air yards. The Bills’ win propels them to the AFC Championship game, where they will face the Kansas City Chiefs.

Lamar Jackson contributed 254 yards, including two touchdown passes to Rashod Bateman and Isaiah Likely, but also threw an interception. In addition, Derrick Henry scored a touchdown on the ground for the Ravens.

Result: Bills (27) – (25) Ravens