The NFL wild-card round has concluded, setting the stage for the upcoming divisional round matchups. In the AFC, the Baltimore Ravens are set to face the Buffalo Bills, while the Kansas City Chiefs will take on the Houston Texans. On the NFC side, the Los Angeles Rams will go up against the Philadelphia Eagles, and the Detroit Lions will host the Washington Commanders.
Looking ahead to these matchups, our NFL Nation reporters have delved into what we learned about each team during the wild-card round. Plus, Seth Walder has analyzed how each team can secure victory and advance to the conference championship games. Additionally, ESPN's Football Power Index cFPIc projections and opening lines from ESPN BET offer insight into the upcoming contests.
First on the agenda is the highly anticipated showdown between the No. 1-seeded Kansas City Chiefs and the Houston Texans. The Chiefs are favored in this matchup, with Patrick Mahomes leading the charge. Mahomes, who boasts a perfect 6-0 record in the divisional round, holds the record for the most wins without a loss in any playoff round in NFL history. The Texans, coming off a strong performance in the wild-card round, will rely on their potent pass rush and cornerback play to challenge the Chiefs.
Moving on to the clash between the Baltimore Ravens and the Buffalo Bills, this game promises to be a tight contest. Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen will square off, with both teams showcasing high-powered offenses. The Bills, with their efficient quarterback play and strong pass protection, will look to outscore the Ravens, who pose a significant threat with their dynamic running attack led by Jackson and Derrick Henry.
In another exciting matchup, the Detroit Lions will face the Washington Commanders. The Lions' explosive offense, led by quarterback Jared Goff, will aim to overwhelm the Commanders, who come into the game with a resilient young quarterback in Jayden Daniels. Washington's defense will play a crucial role in trying to contain the Lions' offensive firepower.
Finally, the Philadelphia Eagles will take on the Los Angeles Rams in what promises to be a compelling battle. The Eagles, buoyed by their stout defense, will look to stifle the Rams' potent offense led by quarterback Matthew Stafford. The Rams, with a revamped defense that excelled in the wild-card round, will aim to contain the Eagles' dynamic rushing attack spearheaded by Saquon Barkley.
As the divisional round unfolds, football fans can expect thrilling matchups and intense competition as the remaining teams vie for a spot in the conference championship games and ultimately, a chance to compete for the coveted Super Bowl LIX title. Stay tuned for more NFL playoff excitement and updates as the postseason action continues.
