The 2025 NFL playoffs continue this week with the Divisional Round showdown, featuring two thrilling matchups on Saturday and two more on Sunday. The action kicks off on Saturday, January 18, when the Kansas City Chiefs host the Houston Texans at 4:30 p.m. ET, followed by the Detroit Lions facing the Washington Commanders at 8:00 p.m. ET.
The Chiefs, the top seed in the AFC, head home as 8.5-point favorites against the Texans, who are entering the second playoff game as the fourth seed. Meanwhile, the Lions are 9.5-point favorites as they host the Commanders, with the over-under set at 55.5. This weekend marks the first playoff game for both Kansas City and Detroit, who earned byes during Wild Card Weekend.
On Sunday, the action continues with the Philadelphia Eagles taking on the Los Angeles Rams at 3:00 p.m. ET, followed by the highly anticipated matchup between the Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens at 6:30 p.m. ET. The Eagles enter this contest as 6-point favorites, with the Rams hoping to capitalize on their momentum after defeating the Minnesota Vikings 27-9. The Bills, currently 1-point favorites, face the Ravens, led by MVP frontrunner Lamar Jackson.
According to BetMGM, the Divisional Round betting lines reflect the excitement of these matchups, with the Chiefs at -500 against the Texans (+375). The Bills, regarded as strong contenders this season, are underdogs at home against the Ravens, showcasing how finely balanced the playoff odds are.
Experts from SportsLine have been weighing in on predictions for the weekend's games. Jason La Canfora, who has been covering the NFL since 2004, predicts the Lions will cover the spread against the Commanders, citing their strong season performance and the challenges faced by Washington's rookie quarterback. Meanwhile, Mike Tierney, another seasoned sports reporter, believes the Bills will overcome the Ravens' formidable rushing attack.
The key players for each game will certainly make headlines. For the Chiefs, quarterback Patrick Mahomes is known for his impressive playoff performances, maintaining a flawless record of 6-0 in Divisional Round games with 16 total touchdowns and zero turnovers. Conversely, the Texans' young QB C.J. Stroud will be facing the most significant challenge of his career after leading Houston past the Chargers.
Saturday night’s match between the Lions and Commanders presents another compelling narrative: Detroit will rely heavily on its explosive offense against Washington's surprisingly resilient defense. Commanders’ rookie QB Jayden Daniels will face Detroit's formidable unit, aiming to upset the odds once again.
For Sunday’s clashes, the Eagles’ Saquon Barkley will be pivotal against the Rams, who need to stifle his running game early to have any chance of success. Conversely, the matchup of MVP candidates Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson will keep fans on the edge of their seats. Both quarterbacks are known for their game-changing abilities and have shown flashes of brilliance throughout the season.
For avid NFL supporters, this Divisional Round weekend promises edge-of-your-seat moments and potential upsets. During the playoffs, teams battle not just for victory but for the opportunity to become legends, as they inch closer to Super Bowl LIX at the Caesars Superdome.
Fans can catch all the playoff action live, with games airing on networks like CBS, NBC, FOX, and ESPN. Streaming options are available through services like Fubo and NFL+. The excitement of the NFL playoffs doesn't just draw fans; it also brings out gamers eager to make their bets count, showcasing the vibrant betting culture surrounding America's most popular sport.
So, which teams will advance to the conference championships? The weekend promises to set the stage for thrilling stories as the top AFC and NFC contenders clash for their place on the path to glory. Be sure to tune in for what is anticipated to be one of the most remarkable weekends of the NFL season, as teams lay everything on the line for the desired chance at the Super Bowl title.