2025 NFL Playoffs: Ranking the Top QB Battles in the Wild Card Round
The 2025 NFL playoffs are here, and Wild Card Weekend delivered some unforgettable quarterback matchups. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, the signal-callers were at the forefront of every game. Let’s dive into a ranking of the top QB battles from the Wild Card Round, analyzing their performances and impact on their respective teams.
6. C.J. Stroud (Texans) vs. Justin Herbert (Chargers)
This matchup had the potential to be a high-scoring affair between two young, talented quarterbacks. However, it turned into a defensive battle, with Stroud and Herbert struggling to find consistency. Stroud, a year removed from leading Houston’s playoff charge, faced a tough Chargers defense. While Herbert enjoyed a soft renaissance under coach Jim Harbaugh, his team is led by defense, and he entered this one without a proven playoff touch. The Texans ultimately prevailed 32-12, thanks to their defense and running game. Stroud completed 18 of 31 passes for 202 yards and one touchdown, while Herbert threw for 185 yards and four interceptions.
5. Josh Allen (Bills) vs. Bo Nix (Broncos)
Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills hosted rookie Bo Nix and the Denver Broncos. Allen, a perennial MVP candidate, showcased his dual-threat ability, throwing for 272 yards and two touchdowns while adding 42 rushing yards. Nix, making his playoff debut, struggled against the Bills’ defense, completing 15 of 33 passes for 173 yards and one interception. The Bills won convincingly, 31-7, demonstrating their dominance on both sides of the ball. While Nix threw 29 touchdowns (fifth-best in the NFL) during the regular season, his inexperience showed in the playoffs against a tough Bills defense.
4. Lamar Jackson (Ravens) vs. Russell Wilson (Steelers)
This AFC North rivalry game featured a clash between two former Super Bowl-winning quarterbacks. Lamar Jackson, a strong MVP candidate, led the Baltimore Ravens to a 28-14 victory over Russell Wilson and the Pittsburgh Steelers. Jackson ran for 81 yards, increasing his career rushing yards in the NFL postseason to 602, beating the mark of 594 previously held by Steve Young. Wilson, at 36, is starting to look his age again, leading to open talk of Justin Fields potentially reemerging under center. The Ravens’ defense stifled the Steelers’ offense, while Baltimore’s ground game, led by Derrick Henry, controlled the clock.
3. Matthew Stafford (Rams) vs. Sam Darnold (Vikings)
In a game relocated to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona, due to wildfires in Los Angeles, Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams defeated Sam Darnold and the Minnesota Vikings 27-9. Stafford, a Super Bowl champion, brought his experience and poise to the Rams’ offense, throwing for 252 yards and three touchdowns. Darnold, filling in for the injured Kirk Cousins, struggled against the Rams’ defense, completing 19 of 34 passes for 205 yards and two interceptions. The Rams’ defense pressured Darnold throughout the game, making it difficult for the Vikings to generate any offensive momentum.
2. Baker Mayfield (Buccaneers) vs. Jayden Daniels (Commanders)
This matchup featured two exciting quarterbacks with contrasting styles. Baker Mayfield, leading the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, faced off against rookie sensation Jayden Daniels of the Washington Commanders. Daniels accounted for most of the Commanders’ offense in the game and became the first rookie to lead his team in passing and rushing in a playoff victory. He completed 24-of-35 passing for 268 yards, threw two touchdowns, and added 36 rushing yards. However, Mayfield and the Buccaneers ultimately prevailed, 31-23, thanks to their balanced offense and opportunistic defense.
1. Jalen Hurts (Eagles) vs. Jordan Love (Packers)
This NFC showdown between Jalen Hurts and Jordan Love was arguably the most intriguing QB battle of the Wild Card Round. Hurts, the Philadelphia Eagles’ star quarterback, faced a tough challenge against Love and the Green Bay Packers. Both quarterbacks entered the game with injuries, adding another layer of intrigue to the matchup. While Hurts battled through a concussion, Love dealt with an elbow injury. In the end, the Eagles’ defense proved to be the difference, as they limited Love and the Packers’ offense. Hurts threw for 258 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Eagles to a 34-24 victory.
Conclusion
The 2025 NFL Wild Card Round showcased a diverse range of quarterback talent, from seasoned veterans to promising rookies. While some matchups lived up to the hype, others fell flat. As the playoffs progress, these quarterbacks will continue to be the focal point of their teams’ Super Bowl aspirations.