NFL Playoffs Kick Off: Steelers, Falcons, and Jaguars Claim Wins in Wild Card Round

The NFL Wild Card Round featured notable victories for the Pittsburgh Steelers, Atlanta Falcons, and Jacksonville Jaguars, paving the way for an exciting postseason.

In a tense AFC North matchup, the Steelers defeated the Baltimore Ravens 26-24. The game concluded dramatically with Ravens kicker Tyler Loop missing a critical 44-yard field goal as time expired, sealing the Steelers’ division title victory.

Veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who joined the Steelers this season, played a pivotal role, throwing a 26-yard touchdown pass to Calvin Austin III just 55 seconds before the game’s end. This win marks Pittsburgh’s first AFC North title since 2020.

In the NFC South, the Falcons clinched a narrow 19-17 victory against the New Orleans Saints, which resulted in the elimination of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers from playoff contention. This success allowed the Carolina Panthers to claim the NFC South title for the first time in a decade, highlighting the Falcons’ strategic resilience and their contribution to the Panthers’ unexpected rise in the division.

On another front, the Jacksonville Jaguars showcased their dominance with a decisive 41-7 win over the Tennessee Titans. This victory secured the AFC South title for the Jaguars and marked their first playoff appearance since 2022.

Under head coach Liam Coen’s guidance, the Jaguars experienced a remarkable turnaround, finishing the season with a commendable 13-4 record after a challenging 2024 campaign.

These outcomes have set the stage for an exhilarating NFL postseason, with each team displaying the determination and skill necessary to advance deeper into the playoffs.