NFL Playoffs: Divisional Round Schedule Set After Thrilling Wild Card Weekend
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The NFL playoff picture is taking shape, with the divisional round schedule now confirmed following an exciting wild card weekend. The Houston Texans secured the final spot in the eight-team field, setting up a compelling slate of matchups as teams battle for a chance to reach the conference championships and ultimately, Super Bowl LX.
Texans Advance, Rodgers’ Future Uncertain
The Texans punched their ticket to the divisional round with a dominant 30-6 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers on Monday night. The win not only keeps Houston’s playoff hopes alive but also raises questions about the future of Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers, potentially marking the end of a legendary career. With the victory, the Texans will travel to face the New England Patriots on Sunday at 3 p.m. (ET).
AFC Divisional Round Showdown
The AFC divisional round kicks off on Saturday at 4:30 p.m. (ET) with a clash between the top-seeded Denver Broncos and the Buffalo Bills. The Buffalo Bills, led by reigning MVP Josh Allen, overcame a late deficit to defeat the Jacksonville Jaguars 27-24, extending their playoff streak to a sixth consecutive season.
Here’s a look at the AFC matchups:
- No. 6 Buffalo Bills at No. 1 Denver Broncos, 4:30 p.m., Saturday, CBS
- No. 5 Houston Texans at No. 2 New England Patriots, 3 p.m., Sunday, ABC/ESPN
NFC Playoff Picture Takes Shape
The NFC side of the bracket features a highly anticipated rematch between the Seattle Seahawks and the San Francisco 49ers on Saturday at 8 p.m. (ET). The Seahawks previously defeated the 49ers 13-3 in Week 18 to secure the division title and No. 1 seed. Despite a significant injury to George Kittle, who tore his Achilles, the San Francisco 49ers advanced with a 23-19 win over the Philadelphia Eagles.
Sunday’s NFC action will see the Chicago Bears host the Los Angeles Rams at 6:30 p.m. (ET). The Chicago Bears mounted a remarkable comeback, overcoming an 18-point deficit to defeat the Green Bay Packers 31-27, while the Los Angeles Rams edged out the Carolina Panthers 34-31.
Here’s a look at the NFC matchups:
- No. 6 San Francisco 49ers at No. 1 Seattle Seahawks, 8 p.m., Saturday, Fox
- No. 5 Los Angeles Rams at No. 2 Chicago Bears, 6:30 p.m., Sunday, NBC
Road to Super Bowl LX
The winners of these divisional round games will advance to the conference championship games, scheduled for Jan. 25. The ultimate prize, Super Bowl LX, is set to be played on Feb. 8 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
