The divisional round of the NFL playoffs is often considered one of the most exciting weekends of the season. Featuring top seeds from both conferences and teams that have earned their place through a wild-card victory, this stage of the playoffs is essentially the quarterfinals. The 2025 postseason has already delivered some thrilling moments, with the Denver Broncos barely edging out the Buffalo Bills in a dramatic overtime game.

Winners

NFL

This year’s playoff format has set the stage for an epic run. Out of the first seven games, five have been decided by four points or fewer, showcasing the intensity and competitiveness of the league.

Denver Defense

Despite allowing 449 yards to the Bills, the Broncos’ defense made key plays, including three sacks on Josh Allen. More importantly, they recorded five takeaways, with Ja’Quan McMillian’s overtime interception being a pivotal moment that led to Denver’s game-winning drive.

Kenneth Walker

In his playoff debut, Walker rushed for three touchdowns and 116 yards at Lumen Field. With Zach Charbonnet injured, Walker may have to carry more weight in the upcoming games.

Marvin Mims

The Broncos receiver had a breakout performance, catching eight passes for 93 yards. His 26-yard TD catch in the final minutes of the fourth quarter and a crucial pass interference penalty helped secure the win.

Sean Payton

As the Broncos’ head coach, Payton continues his quest to win Super Bowls with different teams. This win also ended a 10-year playoff win drought for Denver.

Sam Darnold

Despite an oblique injury, Darnold was efficient in the Seahawks’ 41-6 victory over the 49ers. He only threw 17 passes, which could be beneficial for the upcoming NFC title game.

No. 1 Seeds

Historically, four of the past six teams with home-field advantage have reached the Super Bowl. Both the Seahawks and Broncos are now one win closer to the big game.

Hailee Steinfeld

The actress, married to Josh Allen, had a personal stake in the game. She cheered for the Broncos when they last won the Lombardi Trophy, and she was hoping for a return to the AFC title game.

Houston Texans and New England Patriots

Whichever team wins the second divisional round matchup will likely be a strong favorite in the AFC championship game, regardless of where it is held.

Rashid Shaheed

Shaheed’s 95-yard kickoff return for a touchdown was a defining moment in the Seahawks’ victory over the 49ers.

James Cook

Cook was the top rusher of the season, accumulating 141 yards from scrimmage. However, his fumble in the second quarter cost the Bills a critical scoring opportunity.

Bo Nix

Nix had a strong performance, throwing for 279 yards and three touchdowns. However, his ankle injury ended his season and potentially his team’s hopes.

Losers

Bo Nix

Nix’s season-ending ankle injury not only dashed his dreams of playing on Super Sunday but also jeopardized the Broncos’ chances of advancing further.

James Cook

Cook’s fumble in the second quarter was costly for the Bills. The team’s record in games where Cook had at least 100 total yards dropped to 11-2.

49ers Injuries

The 49ers faced multiple injuries, including the absence of key players like George Kittle and Nick Bosa. Their defense struggled to keep up with the Seahawks.

Buffalo Mistakes

The Bills’ five turnovers directly led to 16 points for the Broncos. In a close game, these mistakes proved costly.

Second-Half Broncos

Despite coming out of halftime expecting an advantage, the Broncos were outscored 20-10 in the third and fourth quarters.

Brandin Cooks

Cooks, who has played for six different teams, failed to make a crucial reception in overtime, resulting in the game’s decisive turnover.

Sean McDermott

The Bills’ head coach has yet to advance beyond the divisional round. His 8-8 playoff record highlights the team’s struggles in January.

Josh Allen

Allen’s performance was largely solid, but his four turnovers proved fatal. His 0-7 record in overtime games and 0-3 in playoff overtime games were significant setbacks.

Going to be another long, cold winter in Buffalo.