As the 2024 NFL season unfolded, 32 teams began the battle for a chance at Super Bowl LIX. Now, only eight remain in contention. It is now time to find out who will reach the NFC Championship.
What? 2024/2025 NFL Divisional Round.
Where? USA
When? January 19, 2025
The Los Angeles Rams clinched the final spot in the divisional round with a commanding 27-9 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Monday night. Their reward? A trip to Philadelphia to take on the Eagles with a coveted place in the NFC Championship game at stake.
In the other NFC divisional matchup, the Detroit Lions will host a resilient Washington Commanders squad, fresh off their first playoff victory in 19 years. Should the Commanders pull off an upset in Detroit, they would break a decades-long drought and advance to the NFC title game for the first time since 1991 — the longest such drought in the conference.
The Detroit Lions couldn’t have asked for a more favorable Divisional Round matchup than the Washington Commanders. While the Commanders are riding a wave of momentum, fueled by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, their roster remains the weakest among playoff teams. Detroit also boasts a clear advantage in coaching.
Against one of the NFL’s five worst run defenses, the Lions are poised to lean heavily on their ground game, with Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery leading the charge. Washington allowed five teams to rush for 175 or more yards during the regular season, and Detroit is well-positioned to rack up at least 140 yards on the ground. Adding to Washington’s challenges, their secondary has no clear solution for Amon-Ra St. Brown, who should dominate from the slot.
The Commanders’ best hope lies with Daniels, who has thrived against pressure, ranking as a top-three quarterback when blitzed this season. While he’s likely to create a few highlight-reel plays, it’s unlikely to be enough against a deeper and more talented Lions team.
Detroit Lions -9.5Washington Commanders at Detroit Lions
The Los Angeles Rams looked sharper in the Wild Card Round than the Philadelphia Eagles, but Philadelphia’s strengths—and Los Angeles’ vulnerabilities—could tilt the scales in this Divisional Round matchup. Adding to the Eagles’ challenges is the loss of standout linebacker Nakobe Dean, whose season-ending injury leaves a significant gap in the middle of their defense.
However, the Rams have their own issues. Philadelphia’s offensive line, the team’s cornerstone, should perform far better in pass protection than the Vikings managed against Los Angeles. Additionally, the Eagles can shift the offensive focus to Saquon Barkley, attacking a Rams run defense that allowed over 5 yards per carry in six games this season and conceded 120-plus rushing yards in 10 matchups. By feeding Barkley, the Eagles can neutralize the Rams’ pass rush and control the pace of the game.
On offense, Los Angeles has questions to answer. Puka Nacua is battling through an injury, Matthew Stafford’s performances have been inconsistent, and Cooper Kupp has surpassed 65 receiving yards only once since mid-November. For the Rams to prevail, they’ll need another dominant effort from their pass rush and a vintage showing from Stafford to overcome these challenges.
Don’t overthink this one. Eagles to win as a straight moneyline bet.
Philadelphia EaglesLos Angeles Rams at Philadelphia Eagles
Below is our list of the best online sportsbooks where you can place your NFC Divisional Round bets. You can read our reviews to help determine the best option for your wagering requirements.
Starting out in the betting industry, Henry later found his calling in sports writing. Specializing in soccer, golf, and darts, he also offers insights into a wide array of sports across the globe. After earning a BA Honors degree in Business and Management, Henry advanced through the ranks at William Hill in England. His career isn't just limited to sports; he's also made a mark in Property and Finance, fields in which he remains engaged. Henry now resides in Barcelona, where he enjoys playing golf year-round as part of the Real Federacion Espanola de Golf.