The 2024 NFL regular season wrapped up with a thrilling Week 18, setting the stage for the playoffs as 14 teams advanced while 18 others ended their campaigns. Here’s a comprehensive look at Sunday’s biggest moments:
Lions Secure NFC’s Top Spot with Dominant Win
In a high-stakes clash, the Detroit Lions earned the NFC’s No. 1 seed by defeating the Minnesota Vikings 31-9. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs delivered a historic performance, recording 170 total yards and four touchdowns, tying a franchise record set by Barry Sanders.
With this victory, Detroit secured back-to-back NFC North titles and their first-ever conference top seed, boosting hopes for a deep playoff run. “This has been in the making for a while,” said Lions head coach Dan Campbell.
Meanwhile, the Vikings (14-3) will face the Los Angeles Rams in the Wild Card round, making them the winningest team to enter the Wild Card in NFL history. Despite their strong record, quarterback Sam Darnold struggled under pressure, missing key opportunities in the red zone.
Broncos Clinch Playoff Spot, Bengals’ Hopes Dashed
The Denver Broncos sealed their postseason berth with a commanding 38-0 win over the Kansas City Chiefs, who rested key players. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix led the charge with 321 yards and four touchdowns, extending his impressive debut season.
Denver’s playoff appearance is their first since winning Super Bowl 50 in 2015. “Our goal wasn’t just to make the playoffs,” said Nix. “It’s for a lot more than that.”
The Bengals, who needed losses from Denver and Miami to make the playoffs, saw their hopes crushed despite their late-season surge and a win over the Steelers on Saturday.
Tyreek Hill Hints at Dolphins Departure
The Miami Dolphins closed out their season with a 32-20 loss to the New York Jets. Star wide receiver Tyreek Hill, who finished just short of 1,000 receiving yards, hinted at a potential offseason exit.
“I’ve got to do what’s best for me and my family,” Hill said postgame. “It was great playing here, but I’m opening the door for myself.”
Titans Claim No. 1 Pick in 2025 Draft
The Tennessee Titans clinched the top pick in the 2025 NFL Draft after a 23-14 loss to the Houston Texans. Titans head coach Brian Callahan expressed frustration over the season but acknowledged the opportunities the pick provides to rebuild the team.
The New England Patriots, who began the day in position for the No. 1 pick, slid to fourth after a win over the Buffalo Bills. Shortly after their victory, the Patriots fired head coach Jerod Mayo.
Wild Card Weekend Set
The playoff schedule is finalized, featuring intriguing matchups:
Saturday, January 11
- Los Angeles Chargers vs. Houston Texans (4:30 p.m. ET)
- Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Baltimore Ravens (8 p.m. ET)
Sunday, January 12
- Denver Broncos vs. Buffalo Bills (1 p.m. ET)
- Green Bay Packers vs. Philadelphia Eagles (4:30 p.m. ET)
- Washington Commanders vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (8 p.m. ET)
Monday, January 13
- Minnesota Vikings vs. Los Angeles Rams (8 p.m. ET)
With the postseason now underway, the race for the Lombardi Trophy promises more unforgettable moments.
