The 2025 NFL Wild Card Weekend Playoffs concluded with riveting matchups, yielding unexpected victories and thrilling performances from star players. The Buffalo Bills, Philadelphia Eagles, and Washington Commanders stood out, each clinching their spots for the divisional round with decisive wins this past weekend.
Starting off the Sunday action, the Buffalo Bills faced off against the Denver Broncos, and it was nothing short of domination. The Bills secured a resounding 31-7 victory, spearheaded by quarterback Josh Allen, who threw for 272 yards and two touchdowns. The performance not only solidified his status as the Bills’ all-time leader in passing touchdowns but also kept the momentum going for the franchise, which is seeking its first Super Bowl title.
This victory marked the fifth consecutive Wild Card win for the Bills, but as history shows, advancing past the divisional round has proven challenging for the team since 2020. Allen, who is heavily favored for the MVP award this year, was supported ably by running back James Cook, who compiled 120 rushing yards. Together, they enabled the Bills to control the field, dominating time of possession and securing 200 yards on the ground.
Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Eagles brought their fierce defensive talent to Lincoln Financial Field, hosting the Green Bay Packers. The Eagles emerged victorious with a 22-10 scoreline, but not without some grit. Despite losing their star, A.J. Brown, who was seen reading on the sideline during the game, the Eagles managed to come out on top, thanks to their solid defense, which intercepted Packers quarterback Jordan Love three times. The Eagles capitalized on early mistakes, including forcing a fumble on the opening kickoff, which led to the game’s first touchdown pass from Jalen Hurts to Jahan Dotson.
Hurts finished the night throwing for 131 yards and two touchdowns, maintaining poise throughout as the Eagles forced four turnovers from the Packers. Green Bay’s road appeared rocky, with their quarterback struggling, throwing for 212 yards but failing to convert on multiple scoring opportunities. With this win, the Eagles advanced to the divisional round, where they'll face either the Minnesota Vikings or the Los Angeles Rams.
Perhaps the most thrilling contest of the weekend was the clash between the Washington Commanders and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Commanders emerged triumphant, securing their first playoff win since 2005 with a nail-biting 23-20 victory. Washington's young quarterback, Jayden Daniels, showcased his burgeoning talent by throwing for 268 yards and two touchdowns. The rookie also made pivotal plays on the field, including converting key third downs under pressure.
The game reached its dramatic conclusion when Commanders kicker Zane Gonzalez hit the game-winning field goal after it doinked off the upright and bounced through, capturing the moment for Commanders fans who celebrated long overdue success. Daniels reflected on the victory, relishing the moment for the fans who have waited so long for this outcome, "This means a lot, you can see all the fans over here. They've been waiting a long time for this moment, I'm so happy for them."
Daniels’ ability to remain composed during crunch time was commendable, especially as this marked just his first playoff game, putting him among only four rookie quarterbacks to achieve victory on the road during their postseason debut.
The weekend capped off the first round of playoff games with high stakes, showcase performances, and intense weekend drama, and as the Wild Card round closed out, all eyes turned to the upcoming matchups. The playoff bracket is taking shape with teams making their mark.
With the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, Baltimore Ravens, and Houston Texans advancing from the AFC, and the Philadelphia Eagles, Washington Commanders, and Detroit Lions leading the NFC, the stakes intensify as the next round approaches. The Rams and Vikings are set to compete for the final NFC divisional round spot tonight.
The divisional matchups promise even more excitement, with the Bills set to face off against the Ravens who boast their own standout players, including two-time MVP Lamar Jackson. Meanwhile, the Eagles will face the winner of tonight's match-up, bringing with it anticipation and electric energy as teams vie for their chances at the Lombardi Trophy.
This Wild Card Weekend may have ended, but the path to the Super Bowl is paved with exhilarating matchups and compelling storylines. Who will claim victory, and what surprises lay on the horizon as teams gear up for next week’s competition? Only time will tell as the NFL playoff season continues to thrill its fans with the intensity of high-stakes football.