NFL Playoff Picture 2025: Teams, Locations, and Super Bowl Path

With every new stage, the 2025 NFL playoffs move forward, and every new round carries with it the intense anticipation of epic battles and the heroics of the players. The victory of the wild-card round fans has ensured that the divisional games, conference championships, and, ultimately, Super Bowl LIX is something they cannot wait to see. Below are all the details up to the last playoff game, including teams, locations, and the championship route.

The Wild-Card Recap

The NFL wild-card round was characterized by a ferocious start that proceeded it and set the scene for the divisional round. In the AFC, the 2-seed Buffalo Bills were incredible as they thrashed the 7-seed Denver Broncos 31-7. On the other hand, the 4-seed Houston Texans outclassed the charged-up Los Angeles Chargers and won the game 32-12 owing to their incredible defense players. The 3rd seed, Baltimore Ravens, were certainly impressive, and they signaled their strength in undisputed style by stamping a thumping 28-14 victory over the Pittsburgh Steelers. The 1-seed Kansas City Chiefs are the current champions and they have been on a buying streak, now ready for their first postseason challenge.

In the NFC, the 2-seed Philadelphia Eagles outperformed the 7-seed Green Bay Packers with a 22-10 result to qualify for the next stage of the NFL playoffs. The 6-seed Washington Commanders caused the only upset of the round when they defeated the 3-seed Tampa Bay Buccaneers by a margin of 23-20 in the last seconds of overtime, a match that was heavily contested. Moreover, the 4-seed Los Angeles Rams severely disappointed the 5-seed Minnesota Vikings with a clear victory of 27-9 as they went on to the NFC’s divisional lineup. The top-seeded Detroit Lions, on the other hand, rested during the bye week and are, therefore all prepared to host the Commanders in the next stage.

Divisional Round Matchups and Locations

The divisional round promises intense battles as the remaining eight teams vie for a spot in their respective conference championship games. Here’s a look at the schedule:

AFC Divisional Round

• (4) Houston Texans at (1) Kansas City Chiefs: Saturday, 4:30 p.m. ET (ABC/ESPN/ESPN+)
• (3) Baltimore Ravens at (2) Buffalo Bills: Sunday, 6:30 p.m. ET (CBS/Paramount+)

NFC Divisional Round

• (6) Washington Commanders at (1) Detroit Lions: Saturday, 8 p.m. ET (Fox)
• (4) Los Angeles Rams at (2) Philadelphia Eagles: Sunday, 3 p.m. ET (NBC/Peacock)

Each game will test the teams’ resolve and provide fans with unforgettable moments.

The matchups feature contrasting styles, from the high-powered offenses of the Chiefs and Bills to the gritty, opportunistic play of the Commanders and Texans.

Key Storylines to Watch

1. Can the Chiefs Maintain Their Dominance?: Kansas City, led by Patrick Mahomes, is no stranger to playoff success. Their high-seed advantage and explosive offense make them a formidable opponent, but the Texans’ momentum could pose a challenge.
2. Underdogs Rising. Washington and Houston have embraced their roles as underdogs. The Commanders, fresh off a dramatic victory, face a Lions team that has consistently impressed throughout the season.
3. Eagles’ Soaring Aspirations: Philadelphia’s balanced attack will be tested by the Rams, who possess a formidable defense. The Eagles aim to capitalize on home-field advantage to secure a spot in the NFC Championship.

Bracket and Path to Super Bowl LIX

To better visualize the road to the championship, here’s the updated playoff bracket:

Super Bowl LIX

The final event of the NFL playoffs will be held on February 9 in the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans.  Fans can expect an awesome halftime show that will feature Kendrick Lamar.

The NFC champions are at home, and they have the home-field advantage to add to the situation.

Conclusion

The 2025 NFL playoffs are expected to be a rollercoaster ride for both players and fans. The thrill of the story of the underdog to the super performance of every moment swells the joy. At the divisional round of the championship, everything is about the path to Super Bowl glory. Who would be the one who dares to perform outstandingly and will be remembered as a new hero in NFL history?

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Sarah Jacobson

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