NFL Announces 2025 Divisional Round Schedule: Key Matchups Revealed

NEW YORK — The NFL on Sunday night unveiled the schedule for the 2025 Divisional Round, set to take place Jan. 18-19. The matchups feature high-stakes games across both the AFC and NFC, with top-seeded teams vying for a spot in the conference championships.

The AFC divisional round will see the Kansas City Chiefs, the No. 1 seed, hosting the lowest remaining seed in their conference. Meanwhile, the NFC’s top-seeded Detroit Lions will face either the Minnesota Vikings or Los Angeles Rams, depending on the outcome of the wild-card round. Both games will be broadcast on major networks, including CBS, NBC, and FOX, with streaming options available on platforms like Peacock and Paramount+.

On Saturday, the Houston Texans secured their spot in the divisional round with a dominant 32-12 victory over their wild-card opponent, fueled by a defense that forced four interceptions. The Baltimore Ravens also advanced, defeating their opponent 28-14, and will face the Buffalo Bills, who triumphed 31-7 in their wild-card matchup.

In the NFC, the Philadelphia Eagles emerged victorious in a hard-fought 22-10 game, setting up a divisional-round clash against either the Vikings or Rams. The Washington Commanders, led by a standout performance from their rookie quarterback, pulled off a thrilling 23-20 upset to keep their playoff hopes alive. They now face the daunting task of taking on the Lions, one of the league’s top teams.

The NFL’s dynamic playoff bracket ensures that regular-season performance directly impacts postseason matchups. The Chiefs and Lions, as No. 1 seeds, will enjoy home-field advantage throughout the playoffs unless they are eliminated. If either team loses, the highest remaining seed in their conference will take over home-field advantage.

Super Bowl 59 is scheduled for Feb. 9, following a bye week for the two conference champions. The NFL’s unique playoff structure continues to emphasize the importance of seeding and regular-season success, keeping fans engaged as the postseason unfolds.