2025 NFL Playoffs: Ranking the Most Likely Wild Card Upsets – Who Will Shock the League?
The air is crisp, the stakes are high, and the tension is palpable. It’s Wild Card weekend in the 2025 NFL Playoffs, and history tells us that at least one underdog will rise to the occasion and send shockwaves through the league. Last year, the Washington Commanders, led by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, stunned the Detroit Lions, 45-31, proving that anything can happen when the playoffs roll around. With parity seemingly reigning supreme, let’s dive into the matchups and rank the teams most likely to pull off a Wild Card upset this year.
6. Houston Texans vs. Los Angeles Chargers
The Houston Texans, despite securing a home-field advantage as AFC South champions, find themselves as underdogs against Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers. While the Texans boast a solid defense, their offense has struggled to find consistency, especially after losing Tank Dell to injury. According to a recent report, the Chargers’ offense ranked 17th while their defense ranked 4th in the league. The Chargers, led by a healthy Justin Herbert and a strong running game featuring J.K. Dobbins, present a balanced attack that could exploit Houston’s offensive woes. While home-field advantage is a factor, the Chargers’ overall talent and experience give them the edge in this matchup.
Upset Meter: 3/10
5. Pittsburgh Steelers at Baltimore Ravens
An AFC North rivalry renewed in the playoffs! The Pittsburgh Steelers, led by their veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, face a daunting task against Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens. While the Steelers’ defense remains a formidable unit, their offense has struggled to find consistency throughout the season. The Ravens, on the other hand, are firing on all cylinders, with Lamar Jackson potentially on his way to another MVP award. Baltimore’s defense has also been dominant, particularly their pass rush, which could spell trouble for Rodgers and the Steelers’ offensive line. While anything can happen in a rivalry game, the Ravens’ superior firepower makes an upset unlikely.
Upset Meter: 4/10
4. Denver Broncos at Buffalo Bills
Rookie quarterback Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos travel to Buffalo to face Josh Allen and the Bills. The Broncos boast a strong defense, led by Defensive Player of the Year candidate Patrick Surtain II, and a running game. However, slowing down Josh Allen in Buffalo is a monumental challenge. Allen’s ability to make plays both with his arm and legs makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. While the Broncos’ defense is capable of keeping the game close, Allen’s brilliance and the Bills’ home-field advantage make an upset a long shot.
Upset Meter: 5/10
3. Green Bay Packers at Philadelphia Eagles
Jordan Love and the Green Bay Packers travel to Philadelphia to take on Jalen Hurts and the Eagles. The Packers, who upset the Dallas Cowboys in the first round of last year’s playoffs, have the potential to surprise again. Jalen Hurts is currently in concussion protocol, and his availability for the game is uncertain. Even if Hurts plays, the Packers’ offense, led by Love and a strong running game, is capable of putting up points. The Eagles’ defense, while talented, has been prone to inconsistency this season. If Love can avoid turnovers and the Packers’ defense can contain Hurts, an upset is within reach.
Upset Meter: 7/10
2. Los Angeles Rams vs. Minnesota Vikings
A rematch of a Week 8 showdown, where the Rams defeated the Vikings 30-20, this game has all the makings of an upset. Matthew Stafford and the Rams offense are clicking at the right time, and their defense has shown the ability to contain the Vikings’ offense. The Vikings, led by quarterback Sam Darnold, have been inconsistent on offense, and their defense has struggled against strong passing attacks. With the game being played in Los Angeles, the Rams have a significant home-field advantage. Given their previous victory over the Vikings and their current form, the Rams are a prime candidate to pull off the upset.
Upset Meter: 8/10
1. Washington Commanders at Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Washington Commanders, led by sophomore sensation Jayden Daniels, travel to Tampa Bay to face Baker Mayfield and the Buccaneers. This matchup is a potential shootout waiting to happen, with both teams boasting high-powered offenses and vulnerable defenses. The Commanders’ offense, led by Daniels’ dual-threat ability, has the potential to explode against the Buccaneers’ defense. While Mayfield has had a strong season, he is prone to inconsistency, and the Commanders’ defense could force him into mistakes. Despite being on the road, the Commanders’ offensive firepower and the Buccaneers’ defensive vulnerabilities make them the most likely team to pull off a Wild Card upset.
Upset Meter: 9/10
The Playoff Wild Card
The NFL playoffs are a stage where legends are made and dreams are shattered. While the higher seeds are favored for a reason, the Wild Card round is notorious for producing upsets that defy expectations. As we gear up for the 2025 playoffs, keep an eye on these potential shockers, as they could very well reshape the landscape of the Super Bowl chase.