Commanders vs. Lions: Live Updates and Highlights from Detroit's First Divisional-Round Game as Top Seed

The Detroit Lions have reached a milestone in their franchise history. After securing the top seed in the NFC playoffs with a Week 18 victory, the Lions entered their divisional-round matchup full of confidence and optimism. Head coach Dan Campbell and his team are riding the momentum of their stellar season, eager to make a deep playoff run. Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders have exceeded expectations this season, earning a spot in the divisional round after a remarkable wild-card victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Lions: Rested and Ready

For Detroit, the bye week was a well-earned reprieve. Securing the top seed in the NFC gave the team much-needed time to recover and prepare for their playoff debut. Running back David Montgomery, who missed the final three games of the regular season due to a knee injury, returned to practice earlier this week and is set to play.

Montgomery's return reunites him with teammate Jahmyr Gibbs to form the "Sonic and Knuckles" backfield tandem, which has been a critical part of Detroit's success this season. Together, they helped the Lions finish sixth in the NFL in rushing yards and second in rushing touchdowns. Montgomery alone racked up 775 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns in just 14 games, showcasing his ability to be a game-changer.

Commanders: Riding the Momentum

On the other side of the field, the Washington Commanders are defying preseason predictions. Their rise to the divisional round is powered by standout rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, the presumed NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. Daniels has brought energy and precision to the Commanders' offense, which has been firing on all cylinders during the playoffs.

In the wild-card round, Washington secured an impressive road victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the only road team to win that weekend. The Commanders’ offense, combined with a defense that stepped up at critical moments, makes them a team to watch. With their first NFC Championship Game appearance since their Super Bowl-winning 1991 season on the line, Washington is determined to keep their playoff run alive.

Key Matchups to Watch

This divisional game promises exciting matchups that could decide the outcome:

1. Detroit's Rushing Attack vs. Washington’s Defense
The Lions’ ground game, powered by Montgomery and Gibbs, will face a tough challenge against a Commanders’ defensive front that has been solid against the run. How well Detroit can establish the run will be a key factor.


2. Jayden Daniels vs. Detroit’s Secondary
The Lions’ defense will have its hands full containing Daniels, who has shown poise and playmaking ability throughout the season. Detroit’s secondary must be sharp to limit his impact.


3. Coaching Battle
Dan Campbell’s fiery leadership and Ron Rivera’s experienced game management add an extra layer of intrigue. Both coaches are known for their motivational styles, and their decisions could swing the game.

2025 NFL Playoff Picture

The divisional round of the 2025 NFL playoffs narrows the field to the final four teams. After wild-card weekend saw six teams eliminated — including the Buccaneers, Vikings, and Packers in the NFC — only the strongest contenders remain.

The AFC has been equally competitive, with the Chargers, Steelers, and Broncos all exiting after road losses in the wild-card round. Now, just four games stand between the remaining teams and their conference championship berths.

Three of last year’s final four teams are still in the hunt, setting the stage for an intense weekend of football as the playoff bracket takes shape.

What’s at Stake

For Detroit, this game represents a chance to prove they belong among the NFL’s elite. A win would send the Lions to the NFC Championship Game, moving them one step closer to their first Super Bowl appearance since the league’s inception.

Washington, meanwhile, is looking to make history of its own. A victory would mark the Commanders’ return to the NFC Championship for the first time in over three decades, a significant achievement for a franchise looking to regain its former glory.

Prediction

This matchup has all the makings of a classic playoff showdown. Both teams bring unique strengths to the table, and the outcome will likely hinge on turnovers, big plays, and execution in the red zone.

If Detroit’s rushing attack can dominate and their defense contains Jayden Daniels, the Lions could secure their spot in the NFC Championship Game. However, if Daniels continues his stellar play and Washington’s defense rises to the occasion, the Commanders might pull off another upset.

Closing Thoughts

The Lions and Commanders have taken different paths to this moment, but both teams have plenty to prove. As the game unfolds, fans can expect drama, excitement, and plenty of highlight-reel plays.

Stay tuned as Detroit and Washington battle it out in what promises to be a thrilling divisional-round game. Will the Lions capitalize on their top-seed advantage, or will the Commanders continue their Cinderella story? Football fans won’t want to miss a minute of the action.