Top 5 Biggest NFL Playoff Upsets of 2025: Ranking the Shocking Moments
The 2025 NFL playoffs were nothing short of electrifying, delivering a series of unexpected outcomes that left fans and analysts alike in disbelief. While the usual suspects like the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles made their presence known, several underdogs rose to the occasion, etching their names in NFL history with stunning upsets. Here’s a countdown of the top 5 biggest playoff upsets of 2025, moments that truly defined the unpredictable nature of the game.
5. Houston Texans Defeat Los Angeles Chargers in Wild Card Round
The Setup: The Los Angeles Chargers, led by quarterback Justin Herbert and newly appointed coach Jim Harbaugh, entered the playoffs as a strong contender. They faced C.J. Stroud and the Houston Texans, who, despite winning the AFC South, were considered underdogs due to inconsistencies on offense.
The Shock: The Texans’ defense dominated, intercepting Herbert four times, including a pick-six by Eric Murray. The Texans outscored Los Angeles 32-6 in the final three quarters, securing a 32-12 victory. Stroud, despite facing immense pressure, managed the game effectively, while the Chargers’ offense crumbled under the Texans’ relentless pass rush.
Why It’s an Upset: The Chargers were heavily favored, with many expecting them to make a deep playoff run. Herbert, who had thrown only three interceptions during the regular season, had a disastrous outing. The Texans’ ability to capitalize on turnovers and control the game made this a significant upset.
4. Pittsburgh Steelers Overcome Baltimore Ravens in Wild Card Round
The Setup: The Baltimore Ravens, boasting an impressive regular-season record and led by MVP frontrunner Lamar Jackson, were expected to easily handle their division rivals, the Pittsburgh Steelers. The Steelers, with veteran quarterback Russell Wilson, had struggled to find consistency throughout the season.
The Shock: In a defensive slugfest, the Steelers managed to contain Jackson and Derrick Henry, limiting the Ravens’ explosive offense. Wilson, despite not putting up huge numbers, made key throws in critical moments. A late turnover by Jackson sealed the Steelers’ victory, leaving the Baltimore crowd stunned.
Why It’s an Upset: The Ravens were considered Super Bowl contenders, while the Steelers barely made it into the playoffs. The Steelers’ defense, which had shown vulnerability in December, stepped up in a big way, and Wilson’s experience proved crucial in navigating the hostile environment.
3. Buffalo Bills Fall to Denver Broncos in AFC Divisional Round
The Setup: Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills were riding high, having dominated their Wild Card matchup. They faced a tough Denver Broncos team led by Bo Nix and a strong defense, but were still heavily favored to advance.
The Shock: The Broncos’ defense, led by Defensive Player of the Year Patrick Surtain II, stifled Allen and the Bills’ offense. Nix managed the game effectively, avoiding turnovers and making key throws when needed. The Broncos’ pass rush consistently pressured Allen, disrupting the Bills’ rhythm and leading to a narrow, hard-fought victory.
Why It’s an Upset: The Bills were seen as one of the top teams in the AFC, with Allen playing at an MVP level. The Broncos, while improved, were not expected to overcome Buffalo’s firepower. Denver’s defensive masterclass and disciplined offense made this a significant upset.
2. Los Angeles Rams Dethrone Minnesota Vikings in NFC Wild Card
The Setup: The Minnesota Vikings, with a stellar 14-3 record, were considered a top NFC team. Facing them were Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams, a team with playoff experience but also inconsistencies.
The Shock: The Rams dominated the Vikings on both sides of the ball. Stafford had a vintage performance, throwing for over 300 yards and three touchdowns. The Rams’ defense contained the Vikings’ offense, forcing turnovers and limiting their scoring opportunities. The final score was a decisive victory for Los Angeles.
Why It’s an Upset: The Vikings’ impressive record made them heavy favorites. The Rams, despite their talent, were seen as a more volatile team. Los Angeles’s dominant performance, especially on defense, was completely unexpected.
1. Washington Commanders Stun Detroit Lions in NFC Divisional Round
The Setup: The Detroit Lions, the top seed in the NFC, were riding a wave of momentum and high expectations. They faced rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and the Washington Commanders, a team that had a strong season but was still considered a long shot to make a deep playoff run.
The Shock: Daniels had a historic performance, throwing for 299 yards and two touchdowns while adding 51 rushing yards. The Commanders’ defense forced multiple turnovers, capitalizing on mistakes by Lions quarterback Jared Goff. Washington’s balanced attack and opportunistic defense led to a stunning 45-31 victory.
Why It’s an Upset: The Lions were the top seed in the NFC and had a high-powered offense led by Goff. The Commanders, while talented, were seen as too inexperienced to overcome Detroit’s firepower. Daniels’s exceptional performance and the Commanders’ ability to exploit the Lions’ mistakes made this the biggest upset of the 2025 NFL playoffs.
Conclusion
The 2025 NFL playoffs were a testament to the league’s parity and the unpredictable nature of the game. These top 5 upsets showcased the resilience, determination, and strategic brilliance of the underdog teams, creating unforgettable moments that will be talked about for years to come.