The excitement is building as the 2025 NFL playoffs kick off this weekend. Starting on January 11th, fans across the country will tune in for an incredible display of talent and fierce competition as teams fight for their spot in the Divisional round. Six wild card games are set to unfold over three thrilling days, bringing joy and heart-pounding moments to football lovers everywhere, especially here in Alabama.
NFL Playoffs Schedule: Wild Card Weekend Games
The first round of playoffs targets six exciting matchups:
- Baltimore Ravens vs. Pittsburgh Steelers: Saturday at 8 p.m. ET on Amazon Prime Video.
- Los Angeles Chargers vs. Houston Texans: Saturday at 4:30 p.m. ET on CBS.
- Denver Broncos vs. Buffalo Bills: Sunday at 1 p.m. ET on CBS.
- Green Bay Packers vs. Philadelphia Eagles: Sunday at 4:30 p.m. ET on Fox.
- Washington Commanders vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Sunday at 8 p.m. ET on NBC.
- Minnesota Vikings vs. Los Angeles Rams: Monday at 8 p.m. ET on ESPN.
What to Watch For
This weekend’s matchups are packed with storylines. The Ravens and Steelers, longtime rivals, will add their own chapter to a storied history, while the Bills face the challenge of containing the Broncos. The Packers will aim to outmaneuver the Eagles, and the Commanders will look to show their strength against the Buccaneers. Excitement is especially high for the Vikings and Rams, who will be battling it out on weekdays in Glendale, Arizona.
Byes for the Top Seeds
Adding to this weekend’s drama, the Kansas City Chiefs and Detroit Lions have earned the weekend off, thanks to their top seeds in the AFC and NFC. They will eagerly wait to see who they will face next in the postseason. Each game this weekend will determine matchups for the Divisional round set to kick off on January 18th.
Injury Updates and Key Players
Injuries can change the fate of any playoff game. The Eagles will be closely watching quarterback Jalen Hurts’ return from his concussion, while the Packers hope to defend against running back Saquon Barkley’s strong performance against their line. On the other side, the Broncos will need to minimize the second chance plays from Bills’ quarterback Josh Allen, who has proven to be a game-changer.
Streaming and Viewing Options
Don’t miss out on the action! Every game this weekend can be streamed through various platforms:
- Amazon Prime Video: Tonight’s Ravens vs. Steelers game.
- CBS: Chargers vs. Texans and Broncos vs. Bills.
- Fox: Packers vs. Eagles.
- NBC: Commanders vs. Buccaneers.
- ESPN: Vikings vs. Rams.
Fun Facts About the NFL Playoffs
The NFL playoffs are not just about football; they bring communities and families together. Watching games on cold winter nights, cheering for your favorite team, and making special snacks are cherished traditions. Young fans in Alabama, like many around the nation, might wear their jerseys proudly and gather with friends to enjoy every thrilling moment.
Looking Ahead
As the Wild Card weekend unfolds, fans will eagerly await the predictions and bracket updates. Some experts foresee the Eagles and Commanders causing surprises this weekend, while others focus on defending champions like the Chiefs, who aim for another Super Bowl win.
Join the Action
Whether you’re cheering in a hometown pub or relaxing at home, the NFL playoffs promise to deliver unforgettable moments filled with spectacular plays, surprising upsets, and the collective cheers of fans from coast to coast. So grab your snacks, gather your friends, and get ready to experience the pulse-pounding thrill of NFL playoff football!