NBC has made a significant announcement regarding its playoff schedule for this Sunday, following a notable switch by the NFL. Fans can look forward to an exciting division round clash as the Los Angeles Rams take on the Philadelphia Eagles. This highly anticipated game is set to kick off at 3 pm ET, marking an earlier start than what viewers are accustomed to during the regular season.
Football enthusiasts will be delighted to know that Football Night in America will begin at 2 pm ET, setting the stage for the thrilling matchup. This earlier start time is a departure from NBC’s usual Sunday Night Football broadcasts, which typically commence just after 8 pm ET. The network’s studio show, hosted by Maria Taylor and her crew, will transform into a football lunchtime affair this Sunday, bringing fans all the pre-game analysis and excitement they crave.
In a twist of fate, the news of this schedule change was first hinted at by Tony Romo during a CBS broadcast. Romo, known for his insightful commentary, seemingly let slip details about the upcoming games before they were officially announced. He expressed his eagerness to call the marquee showdown between the Baltimore Ravens and Buffalo Bills, which is set to kick off at 6:30 pm ET. This game promises to be a highlight of the weekend, featuring two MVP candidates, Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen, both playing at the peak of their powers.
As fans gear up for the division round, they can expect a weekend filled with thrilling matchups. The action kicks off on Saturday, January 18, with the Houston Texans facing off against the Kansas City Chiefs at 4:30 pm ET on ESPN and ABC. Later that evening, the Washington Commanders will take on the Detroit Lions at 8 pm ET on Fox.
The division round schedule is as follows:
NFL division round schedule
- Sat 18 Jan, 4:30 pm ET (ESPN/ABC) – Houston Texans at Kansas City Chiefs
- Sat 18 Jan, 8 pm ET (Fox) – Washington Commanders at Detroit Lions
- Sun 19 Jan, 3 pm ET (NBC) – Los Angeles Rams at Philadelphia Eagles
- Sun 19 Jan, 6:30 pm ET (CBS) – Baltimore Ravens at Buffalo Bills
Romo’s enthusiasm for the upcoming games was palpable during the broadcast. He remarked on the matchup between Jackson and Allen, stating, "Two MVP candidates playing the best football of their career." His excitement was infectious, and it left fans wondering just how thrilling this game could be. "It’s a coin flip to me," he added, highlighting the unpredictability and competitiveness of the matchup.
His partner, Jim Nantz, shared in the excitement, laughing off Romo’s earlier hints about wanting to work on that game. "That’s the game I’ve been waiting for," Romo declared, emphasizing the anticipation surrounding this clash of titans.
For those tuning in to NBC on Sunday, expect a lively atmosphere as Taylor and her team prepare fans for the Rams vs. Eagles showdown. With the earlier kickoff, viewers can enjoy a more relaxed pre-game experience, diving deep into analysis and predictions before the action unfolds on the field.
Meanwhile, CBS will be showcasing the highly anticipated matchup between the Ravens and Bills. With both teams boasting explosive offenses and formidable defenses, this game is sure to keep fans on the edge of their seats. Nantz and Romo will be on the call, bringing their unique blend of insight and excitement to the broadcast.
As the NFL playoffs heat up, fans are reminded of the stakes involved. Each game brings teams one step closer to the ultimate goal: a chance to compete in the Super Bowl. The intensity, the drama, and the sheer unpredictability of playoff football are what make this time of year so special for fans across the nation.
In summary, this weekend’s NFL playoff schedule promises to deliver unforgettable moments and thrilling matchups. With NBC’s earlier start time for the Rams and Eagles game and CBS’s marquee showdown featuring the Ravens and Bills, fans have plenty to look forward to. So grab your snacks, settle in, and get ready for an action-packed weekend of football! The excitement is just beginning, and every game could be a defining moment in the quest for the Lombardi Trophy.
