The NFL's Wildcard Weekend has come to a close, and what a weekend it was. With six games that saw records shattered, history made, and the reigning Super Bowl champions eliminated, the stage is now set for the final eight teams to battle it out for a spot in the big game. The San Francisco 49ers pulled off a stunning upset against the Philadelphia Eagles, while the Los Angeles Rams and Buffalo Bills secured narrow road wins. Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears produced an epic comeback against the Green Bay Packers, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The drama and excitement of the weekend were palpable, with 12 fourth-quarter lead changes and four comeback wins decided in the final three minutes – both records for a single post-season. The Bears were the comeback kings, overcoming a 15-point deficit in the fourth quarter to sink their fierce rivals. Quarterback Caleb Williams was instrumental in the team's victory, leading the charge down the stretch. As one statistic aptly puts it, the Bears never took an offensive snap while leading in three games against the
The fact that this is the most wide-open season in years was perfectly illustrated across the six games, with NFL history made and records tumbling. The Eagles limped out with a woeful offensive display, but credit must be given to 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan and defensive coordinator Robert Saleh for their brilliant tactics in Philadelphia.
The 49ers are missing some of their key players, including defensive stars Nick Bosa and Fred Warner, as well as tight end George Kittle. However, they continue to find ways to win, with even wide receiver Jauan Jennings throwing a touchdown pass to beat the Eagles. With Christian McCaffrey on their side, anything is possible. The Panthers were given little chance, but an MVP-calibre display from Matthew Stafford saw the Rams through after four lead changes in the fourth quarter.
Reigning MVP Josh Allen secured his first-ever road playoff win, leading the Bills to victory in Jacksonville. Despite being beaten up by the Jags and suffering knee and hand injuries, as well as being evaluated for concussion, Allen knows that this is his best chance yet to get to a Super Bowl. The Texans showed why their defense is the best in the league, strangling the life out of Pittsburgh and setting up a showdown with New England, who did a similar number on the Chargers.
The Texans and Patriots both secured dominant wins, with their defenses leading the charge. CJ Stroud was shaky for the Texans, with five fumbles, but his team's defense was able to paper over the cracks. Drake Maye won his playoff debut despite struggling with two fumbles, but made the plays that mattered with his legs to help get the Patriots through. While not MVP-quality, a win is all that matters in the playoffs.
As the remaining eight teams look ahead to the Divisional Round, one thing is certain – it's anyone's game. With no Patrick Mahomes or Lamar Jackson involved, Josh Allen and the Bills will be looking to capitalize on their chances. The 49ers and Rams will be hoping to build on their momentum, while the Texans and Patriots will be relying on their strong defenses to carry them through. It's shaping up to be a thrilling conclusion to the season, and fans won't want to miss it.
The road to the Super Bowl is never easy, but this season's playoff picture is more exciting than ever. With eight teams remaining, each with their own unique strengths and weaknesses, it's impossible to predict who will come out on top. One thing is certain, however – the next few weeks of football will be unmissable.Original: BBC Sport
Image: BBC Sport
Written by Npsports
