sports

NFL playoffs kick off this weekend

The NFL playoffs kick off this weekend with six exciting Wild Card matchups. Here’s a quick primer on each game:

NFL Schedule
Atlantic Time
Los Angeles ChargersLos Angeles ChargersHouston TexansHouston Texans
 
Saturday
5:30 PM
Pittsburgh SteelersPittsburgh SteelersBaltimore RavensBaltimore Ravens
 
Saturday
9:00 PM
Denver BroncosDenver BroncosBuffalo BillsBuffalo Bills
 
Sunday
2:00 PM
Green Bay PackersGreen Bay PackersPhiladelphia EaglesPhiladelphia Eagles
 
Sunday
5:30 PM
Washington CommandersWashington CommandersTampa Bay BuccaneersTampa Bay Buccaneers
 
Sunday
9:00 PM

Saturday, January 11

  • Los Angeles Chargers at Houston Texans: The Chargers, led by quarterback Justin Herbert, boast the league’s top scoring defense, allowing just 17.7 points per game. Houston’s rookie QB C.J. Stroud has faced challenges this season, with his passer rating dropping from 100.8 to 87.0.
    Star Tribune
  • Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens: This AFC North rivalry is renewed in the playoffs. The teams split their regular-season meetings, with Pittsburgh winning 18-16 in Week 11 and Baltimore taking a 34-17 victory in Week 16. The Ravens have been dominant recently, winning their last four games by an average of 23 points.
    Star Tribune

Sunday, January 12

  • Denver Broncos at Buffalo Bills: Buffalo’s Josh Allen leads a potent offense that averages 30.9 points per game. The Bills are undefeated at home this season. Denver’s defense, which led the league with 63 sacks, will need to pressure Allen to disrupt his rhythm.
    Star Tribune
  • Green Bay Packers at Philadelphia Eagles: The Eagles, with a 14-3 record, are favored by 4.5 points. Running back Saquon Barkley has been a key contributor, and quarterback Jalen Hurts is expected to return from concussion protocol. The Packers are dealing with injuries, including the loss of wide receiver Christian Watson.
    Star Tribune
  • Washington Commanders at Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Rookie QB Jayden Daniels has led the Commanders to a 12-5 record, while Tampa Bay’s Baker Mayfield has thrown for over 4,500 yards and 41 touchdowns. The Buccaneers’ rookie running back Bucky Irving has also been impressive, leading all rookies in rushing yards and touchdowns.
    Star Tribune

Monday, January 13

  • Minnesota Vikings at Los Angeles Rams: The Rams upset the Vikings 30-20 in Week 8. This playoff game has been relocated to State Farm Stadium due to wildfires in Los Angeles. The Rams rested their starters in the final week, indicating confidence in their depth and strategy.
    Star Tribune

These matchups set the stage for an exciting start to the NFL playoffs, with teams vying for a chance to advance toward Super Bowl LIX.