By Mummy Grace The Kansas City Chiefs and the Washington Commanders delivered standout performances in the Divisional Round, setting the stage for thrilling Conference Championship matchups.
Chiefs Keep Super Bowl Dreams Alive
The Kansas City Chiefs defeated the Houston Texans 23-14, securing their seventh consecutive AFC Championship Game appearance. Patrick Mahomes threw for 177 yards and a touchdown, tying Joe Montana with 16 playoff wins, second only to Tom Brady. Mahomes’ 11-yard touchdown pass to Travis Kelce in the fourth quarter sealed the game, supported by Harrison Butker’s clutch field goals.
Key Highlights:
- Andy Reid became the fourth coach in NFL history to achieve 400 career wins.
- Texans’ Struggles: Quarterback CJ Stroud was sacked eight times and saw a missed extra point, a failed 55-yard field goal attempt, and a blocked late effort by kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn.
- The Chiefs will face either the Buffalo Bills or Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Championship as they aim to become the first back-to-back champions to return to the Super Bowl.
Commanders Shock Top-Seeded Lions
The Washington Commanders stunned the Detroit Lions with a 45-31 victory, advancing to their first NFC Conference Championship since winning the Super Bowl 33 years ago. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels showcased poise, throwing for 299 yards and two touchdowns without any turnovers.
Key Highlights:
- Jayden Daniels’ Standout Performance: Touchdown passes to Terry McLaurin (58 yards) and Zach Ertz (5 yards).
- Lions’ Troubles: Jared Goff struggled with three interceptions and a lost fumble. Quan Martin returned one interception 40 yards for a touchdown, marking a pivotal moment.
- Commanders’ Offense: Brian Robinson and Jeremy McNichols each contributed rushing touchdowns, while Jahmyr Gibbs’ efforts for Detroit fell short despite two rushing scores.
- The Commanders will face the Philadelphia Eagles or Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Championship.
Both games highlighted high-stakes drama, resilient defenses, and dynamic offensive play. The Chiefs and Commanders now look ahead, aiming for Super Bowl glory.