The 2026 NFL wild card weekend delivered unprecedented drama, with the Rams, Bears and Bills each securing playoff wins via game-winning touchdowns in the final two minutes. This marked the first time in NFL history that three postseason games ended that way. The thrilling finishes highlighted the unpredictability of the opening playoff round.
The NFL's 2026 wild card weekend set a new benchmark for excitement, as three games concluded with game-winning touchdowns in the final two minutes—a first in league postseason history. Previously, the maximum in a single postseason was two such finishes, occurring in 1982, 2002, 2011 and 2023.
On Saturday, Matthew Stafford connected with Colby Parkinson for a 19-yard touchdown with 38 seconds remaining, lifting the Los Angeles Rams to a 34-31 victory over the Carolina Panthers. The game featured four go-ahead touchdowns in the fourth quarter, tying an NFL record.
Later that evening, the Chicago Bears staged a remarkable comeback from an 18-point halftime deficit against the Green Bay Packers. Trailing 21-3 at the break and 27-6 through three quarters, the Bears outscored Green Bay 25-6 in the fourth to win 31-27. Quarterback Caleb Williams sealed it with a 25-yard touchdown pass to D.J. Moore at 1:43. Bears coach Ben Johnson credited training camp viewings of the New England Patriots' Super Bowl LI comeback from a 28-3 deficit for inspiring resilience. Players Joe Thuney (Patriots) and Grady Jarrett (Falcons) shared their experiences, with Johnson noting, "It was just great to get perspective from both of those players... there's a lot of time left."
On Sunday, Josh Allen powered the Buffalo Bills to a 27-24 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. Allen, dealing with multiple injuries including a foot issue, head evaluation and knee twist, completed 28 of 35 passes for 273 yards and one touchdown, while rushing 11 times for 33 yards and two scores. His 1-yard touchdown run with 1:04 left proved decisive after a 36-yard pass to Brandin Cooks and a key tush push. The game ended when Cole Bishop intercepted Trevor Lawrence on the Jaguars' first play from scrimmage. Lawrence finished 18 of 30 for 207 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions; Parker Washington caught seven passes for 107 yards and a score.
This weekend's three close games, all decided by four points or fewer, echoed the dramatic 2013 wild card round—the last with such tight finishes. The Bills advanced to their first road playoff win since 1992, while the results underscore the playoff's intensity.
