2025 NFL Playoff Schedule: Divisional Round Matchups, Dates, Times, & How to Watch

The NFL playoffs intensify as the Wild Card round concludes, setting the stage for the Divisional Round. With Super Bowl LIX on the horizon, the stakes are higher than ever. This article provides a comprehensive guide to the 2025 NFL Divisional Round, including the schedule, matchups, key players, and potential storylines. Note: Broadcast information and some matchup details are still pending and will be updated as they become available from the NFL.

Divisional Round: What to Expect

The Divisional Round typically takes place the weekend following the Wild Card round, which, for 2025, is projected to be January 18-19. These dates are tentative and subject to official confirmation from the NFL. This round features the top four teams from each conference – the two Wild Card winners and the two teams that earned a bye (the top seeds). The single-elimination format adds to the pressure, with only two teams from each conference advancing to the Conference Championships.

AFC Matchups

The AFC Divisional Round showcases some of the league’s most exciting talent and promises thrilling matchups.

(1) Kansas City Chiefs vs. (4) Houston Texans

Date: Saturday, January 18, 2025
Time: 4:30 PM ET
Stadium: Arrowhead Stadium
TV Network: To be determined

This game pits the powerhouse Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, against the surprising Texans, quarterbacked by C.J. Stroud. While the Chiefs are the clear favorites playing at home, the Texans’ Wild Card victory suggests they shouldn’t be underestimated. The Texans’ defense will face a formidable challenge containing Mahomes, while Stroud will need to perform under immense playoff pressure. If the Texans can establish a strong running game and capitalize on potential Chiefs turnovers, they may have a chance at an upset.

(2) Buffalo Bills vs. (3) Baltimore Ravens

Date: Saturday, January 18, 2025
Time: 8:15 PM ET
Stadium: Highmark Stadium
TV Network: To be determined

This matchup is a rematch of a Week 4 game won by the Ravens. Both teams boast dynamic quarterbacks, with Josh Allen leading the Bills and Lamar Jackson leading the Ravens. The game will likely come down to which team can impose its style of play – the Bills’ high-powered passing attack or the Ravens’ ground-and-pound offense. Weather conditions could also be a factor, potentially favoring the Ravens if conditions are cold and windy.

NFC Matchups

While the #1 seed Detroit Lions secured their spot, their opponent and the other NFC matchup are contingent on Wild Card weekend results.

(1) Detroit Lions vs. NFC Wild Card Winner

Date: Sunday, January 19, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM ET
Stadium: Ford Field
TV Network: To be determined

The Lions, with home-field advantage, await the lowest remaining seed. Jared Goff’s leadership will be crucial for the Lions’ playoff success. The identity of their opponent and the specific strategic challenges they’ll pose remain uncertain.

NFC Wild Card Winner vs. NFC Wild Card Winner

Date: Sunday, January 19, 2025
Time: 6:30 PM ET
Stadium: To be determined
TV Network: To be determined

This game is a complete unknown until the Wild Card games are played. The element of surprise adds intrigue, and this matchup could provide a platform for unexpected players to emerge as playoff heroes.

Key Players to Watch

While individual matchups are partially TBD, several players are likely to be pivotal in shaping their teams’ Divisional Round outcomes.

• Patrick Mahomes (Chiefs): His ability to extend plays and make difficult throws makes him a constant threat.
• C.J. Stroud (Texans): The rookie quarterback’s performance under pressure will be a key factor.
• Josh Allen (Bills): His dual-threat capabilities make him a game-changer.
• Lamar Jackson (Ravens): His electrifying runs and improving passing skills make him a difficult player to defend.
• Jared Goff (Lions): The veteran quarterback’s leadership and decision-making will be crucial for the Lions.

Divisional Round: Additional Insights

• Coaching Decisions: Playoff games often hinge on strategic coaching decisions, especially in crucial situations.
• Special Teams: Field position battles and potential game-changing plays on special teams can be critical.
• Injuries: Injury updates will be crucial to monitor, as they can significantly impact team performance.

(Article last updated: October 26, 2023)