NFL 2025 Divisional Round Results: Overtime Drama, Defensive Takeovers, and Championship Momentum

The NFL 2025 Divisional Round delivered a postseason weekend defined by high-pressure execution, defensive dominance, and dramatic finishes. With a trip to the Conference Championship Games on the line, four teams rose to the moment while four others saw their seasons come to an end. From an overtime thriller in Denver to a statement blowout in Seattle, the Divisional Round showed exactly what separates contenders from champions.

Denver Broncos Defeat Buffalo Bills 33–30 (Overtime)

The most dramatic game of the weekend took place at Empower Field at Mile High, where the Denver Broncos outlasted the Buffalo Bills 33–30 in overtime. The game ended when kicker Wil Lutz drilled a 23-yard field goal, sealing one of the biggest postseasons wins in recent Bronco's history.

Denver finished with 349 total yards of offense, relying heavily on the passing game with 279 passing yards. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix delivered a resilient playoff performance, completing 26 of 46 passes for 279 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception, while also adding 29 rushing yards on 12 carries. His ability to extend plays and remain composed under pressure kept Denver competitive throughout regulation and overtime.

The Broncos’ receiving corps played a key role. Marvin Mims Jr. led the way with eight receptions for 93 yards and a touchdown, consistently stretching Buffalo’s secondary. Lil’Jordan Humphrey added a red-zone score, and Denver even capitalized with a touchdown reception by an offensive tackle, reflecting creative play-calling in critical moments. RJ Harvey provided versatility, contributing as both a runner and receiver.

Defensively, Denver was the difference-maker. The Broncos forced five fumbles, recorded three sacks, delivered ten quarterback hits, and intercepted two passes, repeatedly disrupting Buffalo’s offensive rhythm. While Buffalo remained competitive, turnovers proved costly. Moving forward, the Bills’ top priority must be limiting giveaways, while the Broncos must improve their third-down efficiency (8-for-16) as competition stiffens.

Seattle Seahawks Dominate San Francisco 49ers 41–6

In the most lopsided result of the Divisional Round, the Seattle Seahawks dismantled the San Francisco 49ers 41–6 at Lumen Field, delivering a complete performance on offense, defense, and special teams.

Seattle totaled 281 yards of offense, leaning heavily on a dominant rushing attack that produced 175 rushing yards. Kenneth Walker III was the engine, rushing for 116 yards and three touchdowns, while also contributing in the passing game. Quarterback Sam Darnold played efficiently, completing 12 of 17 passes for 124 yards and a touchdown, managing the game while the run game controlled the tempo.

Special teams provided a massive spark, as Rashid Shaheed returned two kickoffs for 126 yards, including a touchdown, completely swinging momentum and field position in Seattle’s favor.

Defensively, the Seahawks overwhelmed San Francisco, forcing three fumbles, recording two sacks, and intercepting a pass. The 49ers struggled to protect the football and never recovered. For San Francisco, ball security must be the primary offseason focus. Seattle advances but will need to improve its third-down efficiency (4-for-10) to sustain drives against stronger defensive opponents.

New England Patriots Defeat Houston Texans 28–16

At Gillette Stadium, the New England Patriots defeated the Houston Texans 28–16, relying on defensive pressure, balanced offense, and opportunistic playmaking.

The Patriots recorded 248 total yards of offense, with balance between the run and pass. Quarterback Drake Maye continued his strong postseason play, completing 16 of 27 passes for 179 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. His composure allowed multiple receivers to contribute, including Kayshon Boutte, Stefon Diggs, and DeMario Douglas, each of whom scored a touchdown.

The defining moment came on defense, where cornerback Marcus Jones intercepted a pass and returned it 26 yards for a touchdown, shifting momentum firmly in New England’s favor. Overall, the Patriots defense forced four interceptions, added three sacks, nine quarterback hits, and a forced fumble, overwhelming Houston’s offense.

Houston struggled to sustain drives and protect the football. For the Texans, improvement must come in third-down efficiency (7-for-17) and turnover reduction. Despite the win, New England must also address its own third-down struggles (3-for-14) and limit turnovers as competition intensifies.

Los Angeles Rams Defeat Chicago Bears 20–17 (Overtime)

The Divisional Round concluded with another overtime thriller, as the Los Angeles Rams defeated the Chicago Bears 20–17 at Soldier Field in a cold, physical contest.

The Rams generated 340 total yards of offense, with Matthew Stafford throwing for 258 yards on 20 completions. While the passing game was important, the Rams’ success was driven by Kyren Williams, who carried the ball 21 times for 87 yards and two touchdowns, providing balance and toughness in difficult conditions.

Defensively, Los Angeles rose to the moment, forcing a fumble and intercepting three passes, shutting down Chicago’s late momentum and sealing the win in overtime. The Bears showed flashes but were undone by missed opportunities and turnovers.

Looking ahead, the Rams must improve their third-down efficiency (5-for-16), while Chicago’s focus will be on reducing offensive turnovers and improving third-down execution (9-for-19).

Final Takeaway

The NFL 2025 Divisional Round reinforced a timeless playoff truth: games are won through discipline, defensive execution, and situational football. Turnovers, third-down efficiency, and special teams played decisive roles in determining who advanced and who went home.

As the league now turns toward the Conference Championship Games, the remaining teams carry momentum—but also clear areas for improvement. The margin for error is gone, and only the most complete teams will earn a trip to Super Bowl 60.

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