With the 2025 NFL playoffs about to begin here is a look at the predictions for the AFC.
No.4 Pittsburgh Steelers vs No.5 Houston Texans
If this is truly the last season for the legendary quarterback Aaron Rodgers, then he will likely have his career ended by the Texans in Pittsburgh on Monday night.
As the Steelers’ offense lacks firepower even with DK Metcalf returning. The Texans have one of the best defenses in the NFL and it will come as no surprise when Will Anderson and Danielle Hunter make life miserable for Rodgers as the duo combined for 27 sacks and 45 tackles for loss.
Offensively for Houston, C.J. Stroud has played well since returning from a concussion. While there is a question mark for the offensive line, running back Woody Marks likely helps keep the pressure off with his ability to catch the football out of the backfield. Also, tight end Dalton Schultz likely has a big game as well.
Do not foresee this one as particularly close, Texans 27, Steelers 6.
No.3 Jacksonville Jaguars vs Buffalo Bills
This is the year for Bills’ quarterback Josh Allen. He does not have to face Joe Burrow or Patrick Mahomes. Unfortunately he will have to face one the Jaguars who have an excellent defense led by linebacker Devin Lloyd who recorded five interceptions and seven passes defended.
Buffalo offensively does not have a legitimate no.1 receiver. Running back James Cook will need to have a huge game to keep Jacksonville’s defense honest. Meanwhile, Trevor Lawrence and Jacksonville’s offense has plenty of weapons to distribute to with Brian Thomas Jr, Parker Washington, Jakobi Meyers, and Brenton Strange.
Also, running back Travis Etienne had 13 total touchdowns (seven rushing, six receiving), and Lawrence finished the season with nine rushing TDs.
Jaguars win this one 24-13.
No.2 New England Patriots vs No.7 Los Angeles Chargers
Patriots quarterback Drake Maye has made impressive strides this season. At running back the duo of TreyVeon Henderson and Rhamondre Stevenson were impressive combining for 1,524 yards and 16 touchdowns on the ground.
Maye is also mobile enough to make plays on his own as he finished with 450 yards on the ground and four touchdowns. Wide receiver Stefon Diggs became his favorite target and finished with 1,013 yards on 85 receptions and at tight end Hunter Henry had a career year.
Meanwhile the Chargers seemingly limped towards the final stretch of the season. Highlighted by the injury to the left hand of quarterback Justin Herbert.
Still Herbert has plenty of weapons to choose from which include Ladd McConkey, Keenan Allen, Quentin Johnston, and Oronde Gadsden II. Running back Omarion Hampton is back from injury and Kimani Vidal made the most of his opportunity when given the chance.
With that being said, the Patriots have been questioned about their road to the playoffs due to a relatively easy 2025 schedule.
This game is most likely the most entertaining AFC playoff game, with the Chargers upsetting the Patriots in a rather high scoring contest 31-27.