There are just four teams left in what has been a pretty exciting year for the NFL.
A few could have easily been predicted (the Green Bay Packers and Kansas City Chiefs), while a few were slightly less likely (the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Buffalo Bills).Â
However, even the two more surprising picks feature Tom Brady and another possible MVP in Josh Allen, so their appearances in their respective championship games aren’t too crazy.Â
With that said, here’s a quick glimpse at a few things to note about last weekend’s games and next week’s matchups.
Drew Brees was outdueled by Tom Brady in possibly his final game
Brady and the Bucs defense was able to keep Brees in check in his own home in what is reportedly his last game.
The battle of two of the elder statesman of the league loomed front and center, and unfortunately for Brees it marked the third year in a row he lost at home to end the season.
He will undoubtedly be missed in New Orleans and around the NFL if he does retire.
Brady vs Rodgers for a shot at the Super Bowl
Brady will have to face another legendary quarterback in his next game to try to advance to yet another Super Bowl, this time it being Aaron Rodgers, the likely MVP of this season.
The Bucs will travel to Lambeau Field in another highly anticipated matchup.
Green Bay did not have too much trouble disposing of the upstart Los Angeles Rams to reach the NFC Championship game, but the Bucs could give them more trouble.
Bills headed to first AFC Championship game since 1993
The Bills are certainly the feel good story of this year’s playoffs as they were able to win both of their home games and ensure the team’s first chance at a Super Bowl appearance since the Jim Kelly era.
The Bills were able to beat up and eventually get Lamar Jackson out of the game and also get a few timely plays from Josh Allen and their offense.
They will head to Kansas City and have a solid chance at pulling off an upset.
Chiefs survive scare against upstart Browns
No one doubted that the Chiefs would again make waves in the playoffs this year, but the Browns nearly pushed them to an early exit.
This was of course because Patrick Mahomes had to leave the game early because of a concussion and that allowed Cleveland the opportunity to capitalize on the momentum shift.
However, backup QB Chad Henne provided just enough clutch play for the Chiefs to allow them to hold on despite Mahomes absence.
Whether or not they are favored to beat the Bills at home depends on Mahomes’ availability. Hats off to the Browns though for almost pulling off the unthinkable.
