The NFL Playoffs divisional round is scheduled with two games on both Saturday, January 20, and Sunday, January 21. On Saturday, the Baltimore Ravens, the top seed in the AFC, will host the Houston Texans. Meanwhile, the San Francisco 49ers, the NFC’s top seed, will host the Green Bay Packers, who, as the first-ever seventh seed, have advanced to the Divisional Round.
On Sunday, the Detroit Lions will host the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, followed by the Buffalo Bills hosting the Kansas City Chiefs. The winners of each game will progress to the conference championship games, where they will compete for the opportunity to play in Super Bowl LVIII.
As the NFL playoffs progress, the Divisional Round promises intense matchups and compelling storylines. Here’s a closer look at the key matchups to watch in each AFC game this weekend.
Houston Texans at Baltimore Ravens (4:30 p.m. ET Saturday)
Key Matchup: Nico Collins vs. Mike Macdonald’s coverages
In this clash, all eyes will be on the battle between Texans’ receiver Nico Collins and the Ravens’ defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald’s coverages. With the Ravens often favoring man coverage, the absence of key Texans receivers might force Baltimore to play man at a high rate. Collins becomes the focal point for the Texans, and Macdonald’s defensive strategy will be crucial in containing him.
Despite the Ravens’ lower blitz rate, their unique simulated pressures may pose a challenge for the Texans. Collins, known for his deep threat, could exploit one-on-one opportunities, especially if Marlon Humphrey is sidelined with a calf injury. How the Ravens’ corners handle Collins in these situations will play a pivotal role in determining the outcome.
Kansas City Chiefs at Buffalo Bills (6:30 p.m. ET Sunday)
Key Matchup: Dalton Kincaid vs. Chiefs linebackers
In the clash between the Chiefs and Bills, the spotlight shifts to rookie tight end Dalton Kincaid facing the Chiefs’ linebackers. The Chiefs boast a strong trio of cornerbacks, making it challenging for primary receiver Stefon Diggs. Kincaid’s emergence in recent games positions him as a key target for the Bills, especially in exploiting matchups against Chiefs linebackers.
The Bills are expected to deploy multiple tight end sets, attempting to draw the Chiefs into base personnel. Kincaid’s ability to outmaneuver linebackers Nick Bolton, Willie Gay, or Leo Chenal will be crucial for the Bills’ passing game. While Diggs may face challenges, Kincaid’s performance becomes pivotal for the Bills to move the ball effectively.
Divisional Round Schedule:
Saturday, Jan. 20:
- AFC: 4:30 p.m. (4) Houston Texans at (1) Baltimore Ravens (ESPN/ABC, ESPN+, ESPN Deportes)
- NFC: 8:15 p.m. (7) Green Bay Packers at (1) San Francisco 49ers (FOX, FOX Deportes)
Sunday, Jan. 21:
- NFC: 3 p.m. (4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers at (3) Detroit Lions (NBC, Peacock, Universo)
- AFC: 6:30 p.m. (3) Kansas City Chiefs at (2) Buffalo Bills (CBS, Paramount+)
Championship Sunday:
Sunday, Jan. 28:
- AFC: 3 p.m. AFC Championship Game (CBS, Paramount+)
- NFC: 6:30 p.m. NFC Championship Game (FOX, FOX Deportes)
As the Divisional Round unfolds, football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the outcomes and pivotal moments that will shape the path to Super Bowl LVIII. Stay tuned for more exciting NFL action!
