NFL roundup: Lions dominate Vikings for No. 1 seed in NFC

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Detroit Lions Secure NFC’s Top Seed with Win Over Vikings

The Detroit Lions dominated the Minnesota Vikings with a convincing 31-9 victory, securing the No. 1 seed in the NFC playoffs for the first time in franchise history.

Rookie Jahmyr Gibbs exploded with 170 scrimmage yards and scored four touchdowns, including three rushing and one receiving. The Lions’ offense thrived under Jared Goff, who completed 27 of 33 passes for 231 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions.

The Vikings (14-3) had their nine-game winning streak ended as quarterback Sam Darnold struggled, completing just 18 of 41 passes for 166 yards. Minnesota was held without a touchdown, a rarity in their otherwise impressive season.

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Broncos Dominate Chiefs to Clinch AFC Playoff Berth

The Denver Broncos crushed the Kansas City Chiefs 38-0, clinching their first playoff appearance since their Super Bowl-winning 2015 season.

Rookie quarterback Bo Nix had a stellar performance, completing his first 18 passes en route to a 26-of-29 day with 321 yards and four touchdowns. Denver locked in the No. 7 seed in the AFC playoffs.

With the No. 1 AFC seed already secured, Kansas City rested stars like Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and others. Backup quarterback Carson Wentz struggled, going 10-of-17 for 98 yards.

Panthers Oust Falcons in OT Thriller

The Carolina Panthers eliminated the Atlanta Falcons from playoff contention with a 44-38 overtime victory.

Rookie quarterback Bryce Young accounted for five touchdowns (three passing, two rushing) and threw for 251 yards in a season-best performance. Despite Bijan Robinson’s stellar 170 rushing yards and two touchdowns, and Drake London’s 187 receiving yards, Atlanta couldn’t secure the division title.

Commanders Edge Cowboys to Seal NFC Playoff Spot

A dramatic 5-yard touchdown pass from Marcus Mariota to Terry McLaurin with three seconds remaining lifted the Washington Commanders to a 23-19 victory over the Dallas Cowboys.

Mariota came off the bench to replace an injured Jayden Daniels, completing 15 of 18 passes for 161 yards and two touchdowns. His late-game heroics secured the Commanders’ No. 6 seed.

Bears Snap Streak Against Packers

The Chicago Bears ended their 10-game losing streak with a thrilling 24-22 victory over the Green Bay Packers.

Cairo Santos hit a 51-yard field goal as time expired, handing Chicago a morale-boosting win. Quarterback Jordan Love exited early due to an injury, leaving Green Bay short-handed.

Texans and Cardinals Wrap Up With Big Wins

C.J. Stroud guided Houston to a 23-14 win, throwing a touchdown pass before being rested. The Texans (10-7) secured playoff momentum, while the Titans fell to 3-14, clinching the No. 1 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

Arizona’s Kyler Murray delivered four touchdown passes, leading the Cardinals to a 47-24 win over San Francisco.

Jets Spoil Dolphins’ Playoff Hopes

The New York Jets defeated the Miami Dolphins 32-20, with Aaron Rodgers throwing a season-high four touchdowns, including his 500th career TD pass. Miami missed the playoffs after Denver’s win eliminated them from contention.

Chargers Secure AFC Fifth Seed

Los Angeles topped the Raiders 34-20, with Quentin Johnston hauling in 13 catches for 186 yards to lead the Chargers to victory.

Eagles Tie Franchise Record

Philadelphia’s backup quarterback Tanner McKee threw two touchdowns to lift the Eagles over the Giants 20-13, matching their single-season franchise record of 14 wins.

Patriots End Season with Win

Rookie Joe Milton III shined in his NFL debut, leading New England to a 23-16 victory over Buffalo.

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Playoffs Are Set

As the playoffs approach, standout performances and shocking upsets from Week 18 have reshaped the postseason picture. Fans can look forward to thrilling matchups as the road to the Super Bowl begins.

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Seth Cohen
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