Ask Onix
NFL Divisional Round Kicks Off with High-Stakes Matchups
The race to Super Bowl 60 intensifies this weekend as the NFL's top-seeded teams join the postseason fray. After a dramatic Wild Card Weekend, analysts and former players weigh in on which of the remaining eight teams will advance to the conference championships.
Saturday's Showdowns: AFC and NFC Clashes
The Divisional Round opens Saturday with two pivotal games. In Denver, the sixth-seeded Buffalo Bills face the top-seeded Broncos at 9:30 p.m. GMT, followed by the San Francisco 49ers traveling to Seattle to take on the Seahawks at 1:00 a.m. GMT Sunday.
Bills vs. Broncos: Can Josh Allen Overcome Denver's Defense?
Buffalo's quarterback, Josh Allen, has been a postseason force, but injuries to key receivers and a bruising Wild Card win over Jacksonville may test his limits. Analysts are split: while some believe Allen's determination could carry the Bills, others favor Denver's rested defense and home-field advantage.
"I've spent most of my career in Bronco land. I can't say it out loud-my wife's from Buffalo-but we're rooting for Denver. Quietly."
Phil McGeoghan, former NFL coach
Denver's 11-2 record in one-score games this season and Bo Nix's mobility add to their edge, with experts predicting a narrow victory for the Broncos.
49ers vs. Seahawks: Injury-Riddled San Francisco Faces Tough Road Test
The 49ers enter the game depleted, missing stars like George Kittle and Nick Bosa. Seattle's defense, bolstered by the return of quarterback Sam Darnold, presents a formidable challenge. Former coach Phil McGeoghan notes San Francisco's winning culture, but most analysts tip the Seahawks to advance by a 10-point margin.
Seattle's pass rush and home crowd could exploit the 49ers' weakened offensive line, which ranked last in sacks this season.
Sunday's Games: Patriots vs. Texans and Rams vs. Bears
The action continues Sunday with the Houston Texans visiting the New England Patriots at 8:00 p.m. GMT, followed by the Los Angeles Rams taking on the Chicago Bears at 11:30 p.m. GMT.
Texans vs. Patriots: Defense vs. Mobility
Houston's dominant defense, fresh off a road playoff win, clashes with New England's Drake Maye, whose playmaking has revived the Patriots' offense. With Texans star receiver Nico Collins sidelined by concussion, the Patriots' Mike Vrabel aims to secure his team's first AFC Championship appearance in years.
Analysts are divided, but Houston's defense and CJ Stroud's resilience could tip the scales in their favor.
Rams vs. Bears: Cold Weather and Caleb Williams' Magic
Chicago's resurgence under rookie Caleb Williams faces a stern test against the Rams, a team many consider Super Bowl favorites. Matthew Stafford's experience and Sean McVay's coaching brilliance give Los Angeles the edge, but Soldier Field's frigid conditions and Williams' clutch performances could level the playing field.
"Sean McVay's culture is why they win. Players don't leave unless it's for a better job-he's that good."
Phil McGeoghan
Most experts back the Rams, though the Bears' late-season momentum makes this a toss-up.
What's Next: The Road to Super Bowl 60
The winners will advance to the AFC and NFC Championship Games, with the Super Bowl set for Santa Clara's Levi's Stadium on February 9. With no clear favorite, this year's playoffs promise more drama and upsets.
