The NFL playoffs are finally here, and it comes with an exciting month of high–stakes action as the remaining 14 teams will compete for a spot in the Super Bowl.
Schedule
Wild Card Weekend: Jan. 11-13
Divisional Round: Jan. 18-19
Championship Sunday: Jan. 26
Super Bowl Sunday: Feb. 9
NFC Predictions
Wild Card: Eagles defeat Packers 38-34
Wild Card: Buccaneers defeat Commanders 20-14
Wild Card: Vikings defeat Rams 27-17
Divisional: Lions defeat Vikings 42-40
Divisional: Eagles defeat Buccaneers 28-10
NFC Championship: Lions defeat Eagles 30–27
AFC Predictions
Wild Card: Chargers defeat Texans 21-14
Wild Card: Ravens defeat Steelers 32-20
Wild Card: Bills defeat Broncos 35-14
Divisional: Chiefs defeat Charges 28-20
Divisional: Ravens defeat Bills 40-35
AFC Championship: Ravens defeat Chiefs 30–28
Super Bowl Prediction
Teams: Detroit Lions vs. Baltimore Ravens
Preview: A Super Bowl clash between the Ravens and Lions would feature two of the league’s most exciting offenses. The Lions’ balanced attack and resilient defense could pose significant challenges for the Ravens, especially considering Baltimore’s defensive inconsistences. The Ravens’ dynamic playmaking ability, led by the elite backfield of Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson, has the potential to disrupt Detroit’s defensive schemes.
Prediction: Lions defeat Ravens 45 – 30
Kansas City Chiefs
Aiming for a historic third consecutive Super Bowl victory, the Chiefs have demonstrated resilience and strategic depth throughout the season. Winning 15 games in the regular season, they have been awarded a bye for the first round of the playoffs. Their season began with a strong 9-0 start, making their best opening in franchise history. Quarterback Patrick Mahomes leads the offense effectively, with significant contributions from tight end Travis Kelce and defensive tackle Chris Jones. With a strong roster and championship experience, the Chiefs are well positioned for another deep playoff run.
Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions had a remarkable 2024-2025 NFL season, finishing with a 15-2 record and clinching the NFC North division title for the second consecutive year. The Lions’ offense has been prolific, led by quarterback Jared Goff, who had the most efficient season of his career, leading the league in scoring. At the same time, their defense has faced challenges, mainly due to injuries to key players like Aidan Hutchinson. With a well-coordinated offense and strategic coaching under Dan Campbell, the Lions are poised to make a deep playoff run, aiming for their first Super Bowl appearance in franchise history.
Buffalo Bills
The Bills are riding high with MVP candidate Josh Allen, who has accounted for 45 total touchdowns this season. The Bills showcased a potent passing attack complemented by a solid rushing game. The defense was formidable, limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities and creating turnovers that shifted the game’s momentum. The team set several franchise records during the season, reflecting their high level of play and strategic execution. With a balanced and high-performing roster, the Bills are well-positioned for a deep playoff run, aiming to capitalize on their regular season success and pursue a Super Bowl appearance.
Denver Broncos
The Broncos ended the regular season on a high note with a dominant 38-0 victory over the Kanas City Chiefs. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix showcased his dual-threat capabilities, contributing significantly to the team’s offensive productions and demonstrating potential for future growth. Denver’s defense was formidable throughout the season, ranking second in points allowed; the pass rush was particularly effective, with players like Nik Bonitto and Jonathan Cooper achieving double-digit sacks and superstar cornerback Patrick Surtain II holding down the secondary.
Los Angeles Chargers
Justin Herbert leads an explosive Los Angeles Chargers offense with 3,870 passing yards and 23 touchdowns, demonstrating consistent playmaking abilities. The Chargers’ defense was formidable, ranking first in points allowed per game with the help of defensive ends Joey Bosa, Khalil Mack, and safety Derwin James, showcasing their ability to limit opponents’ scoring opportunities. Under head coach Jim Harbaugh, the team exhibited strategic improvement, particularly in game management and defensive schemes.
Houston Texans
The Texans capitalized on a competitive division, securing the title and a playoff berth. The Texan’s offense was led by quarterback C.J. Stroud, who threw for 3,727 yards and 20 touchdowns, leading the offense with poise. Running back Joe Mixon contributed significantly to the ground game, providing balance to the offense. Wide receiver Nico Collins emerged as a reliable target, making crucial receptions throughout the season. The Texans defense ranked second in total yards allowed per game, limiting the opponents’ offensive production.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Buccaneers began the season with a 3-1 record, securing victories against formidable opponents such as the Washington Commanders, Detroit Lions, and Philadelphia Eagles. The team faced a challenging stretch, losing five games and dropping to 4-6. This period included two overtime losses and a season-ending injury to wide receiver Chris Godwin. Following their bye week, Tampa Bay rebounded impressively, winning six of their final seven games to finish the regular season at 10-7. In his second season with the Buccaneers, starting quarterback Baker Mayfield delivered outstanding numbers for 4,500 yards and 41 touchdowns. He set franchise records with a 71.4% completion percentage and a 106.8 passer rating. Wide receiver Mike Evens continued his remarkable consistency, achieving his 11 straight seasons with 1,000, tying Jerry Rice for the most consecutive 1,000-yard seasons in NFL history. Rookie running back Bucky Irving made a significant impact in his debut season, rushing for 1,122 yards, the highest among rookies, and scoring eight touchdowns. His performance was instrumental in the Buccaneers’ offensive success. The Buccaneers defense has an average performance, ranking 29th in passing defense and 18th in total defense.
Philadelphia Eagles
The Philadelphia Eagles concluded the 2024 NFL regular season with a 14-3 record, tying a franchise record for the most wins in a season under head coach Nick Sirianni; they clinched the NFC East title and secured a playoff berth for the fourth consecutive year. Running back Saquon Barkley surpassed 2,000 rushing yards for the season, showcasing his elite talent and contributing significantly to the team’s offensive success. The defense was bolstered by rookies Quinton Mitchell and Cooper DeJean, whose performances were instrumental in the team’s success. Quarterback Jalen Hurts, who has been sidelined due to a concussion, has returned to practice and is expected to play, bolstering the team’s confidence heading into the postseason.
Los Angeles Rams
The Los Angeles Rams concluded the 2024 NFL regular season with a 10-7 season record, clinching the NFC West division title for the first time since their 2021 Super Bowl-winning season. The Rams began the season with a 1-4 record, facing early setbacks, including injuries to key players such as wide receiver Puka Nacua. Following their bye week, the team demonstrated resilience by winning nine of their final twelve games, securing the division title through the strength of victory tiebreaker over the Seattle Seahawks. Rookie outside linebacker Jared Verse contributed significantly to the Rams’ defensive efforts, and rookie safety Kam Kitchens played a pivotal role in the secondary.
Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders completed the 2024 NFL regular season with a 12-5 record, making a significant turnaround from their 4-13 finish in 2023. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels emerged as a dual-threat leader, passing for 3,568 yards and 25 touchdowns and adding 891 rushing yards and six touchdowns. The defense was led by head coach Dan Quinn, who was instrumental in the team’s success and contributed to a five-game winning streak to close the season. This is the Commander’s first time making the playoffs since 2020, and we hope to make a stamp on this year’s playoffs.
Minnesota Vikings
The Vikings began the season with several victories, demonstrating offensive prowess and defensive resilience. Notable wins included triumphs over the Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears, solidifying their position in the division. Minnesota excelled in tight games, achieving a 9-1 record in one-score games, reflecting their ability to perform under pressure. Star wide receiver Justin Jefferson continued to be a pivotal part of the Vikings’ offense, contributing significantly to their passing game. Quarterback Sam Darnold stepped into the starting quarterback role and had an impressive season, as most people believed he didn’t have what it takes to be a starter. The Viking’s defense ranked highly in several statistical categories, including first in the NFL in interceptions and passing defense.
Baltimore Ravens
The Ravens began the season with two consecutive losses against the Kansas City Chiefs and the Las Vegas Raiders. However, they rebounded with a four-game winning streak, including a notable 35-10 victory over the Buffalo Bills. Lamar Jackson had an impressive season, throwing 4,172 yards and 41 touchdowns. His performance has placed him in contention for a third MVP award, though he continued to face scrutiny due to a 2-4 playoff record. Derrick Henry led the league’s top rushing attack, contributing significantly to the team’s success. His powerful runs were instrumental in securing key victories throughout the season. The Ravens became the first NFL team to achieve 4,000 passing yards and 3,000 rushing yards in a single regular season, showcasing a balanced and potent offense.
Pittsburgh Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers concluded the 2024 NFL regular season with a 10-7 record, securing a spot in the AFC playoffs. A strong start, mid-season quarterback adjustment, and challenges in the last part of the season marked their season. The season featured a quarterback competition between Russell Wilson and Justin Fields. Fields, acquired from the Chicago Bears, started the season due to Wilson’s injury and led the team to three consecutive victories. However, after Wilson’s recovery, he reclaimed the starting position. The Steelers enter the playoffs aiming to rebound from their late season struggles.
Green Bay Packers
The Green Bay Packers concluded the 2024 NFL regular season with a 10-7 record, securing a spot in the NFC playoffs. Their season was characterized by a strong mid-season performance, key players’ contributions, and challenges in the final stretch. Jordan Love demonstrated leadership and growth throughout the season despite an elbow injury in the final game, and reports indicate he should be fine for the playoffs. Josh Jacobs was instrumental in the Packers’ offense, consistently contributing significant yardage. The Packers must address their late-season inconsistencies and capitalize on their offensive strengths to advance in the postseason. Despite the ups and downs of the regular season, the Packers have demonstrated resilience and the potential to make a significant impact in the playoffs.
These teams will need to leverage their strengths and address any weaknesses to succeed in the highest of stakes on their journey to every team’s ultimate goal, winning the Super Bowl.
