The AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 is just around the corner, and football fans across the United States are eagerly anticipating the thrilling matchups and intense competition that await. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of a particular team or simply enjoy watching high-level football, this comprehensive guide will provide you with all the essential information you need to stay up-to-date on the upcoming playoffs.
The AFC playoffs are a single-elimination tournament that determines the conference’s champion, who then advances to the Super Bowl to face the winner of the NFC playoffs. The tournament features 14 teams, including the four division winners and 10 wild card teams, all vying for the coveted Vince Lombardi Trophy. With so much at stake, each game is sure to be a nail-biter, filled with exciting plays and unforgettable moments.
Before we delve into the specific dates and matchups of the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024, let’s take a closer look at the teams that have already clinched their spots in the playoffs, as well as the remaining wild card contenders who are still fighting for a chance to make it to the postseason.
AFC Playoff Schedule 2024
The AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 is set to bring excitement and drama to football fans across the United States. Here are 9 important points about the upcoming playoffs:
- 14 Teams Competing: The tournament features 14 teams vying for the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
- Single-Elimination Format: Each game is a do-or-die matchup, adding to the intensity and suspense.
- Division Winners and Wild Cards: The four division winners and 10 wild card teams make up the playoff field.
- Home-Field Advantage: Higher-seeded teams earn the privilege of playing at home throughout the playoffs.
- Road to the Super Bowl: The AFC champion advances to the Super Bowl to face the NFC champion.
- High-Stakes Matchups: Every play matters as teams battle for a chance to hoist the Lombardi Trophy.
- Unforgettable Moments: The playoffs are known for iconic plays and unforgettable moments that live on in football history.
- Passionate Fan Base: AFC fans across the country will be cheering on their teams with unwavering support.
- Countdown to the Super Bowl: The playoffs serve as the thrilling prelude to the biggest game in American football.
The AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 promises to deliver an unforgettable postseason experience, filled with captivating storylines, fierce rivalries, and the ultimate quest for gridiron glory.
14 Teams Competing: The tournament features 14 teams vying for the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
The AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 features a thrilling tournament format where 14 teams from across the conference compete for the coveted Vince Lombardi Trophy, awarded to the Super Bowl champion.
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Division Winners:
The four AFC division winners automatically qualify for the playoffs, earning a first-round bye and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
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Wild Card Teams:
The remaining 10 playoff spots are awarded to wild card teams, which are the teams with the best records among those that did not win their division. These teams will compete in the Wild Card Round to determine who advances to the Divisional Round.
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Road to the Super Bowl:
The AFC playoffs are a single-elimination tournament, meaning that each game is a do-or-die matchup. The winners of the Divisional Round advance to the AFC Championship Game, where the conference champion is determined. The AFC champion then faces the NFC champion in the Super Bowl, the biggest game in American football.
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Parity and Excitement:
The 14-team playoff format ensures a high level of parity and excitement, as any team can make a run to the Super Bowl, regardless of their regular season record. This creates a thrilling and unpredictable postseason that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
With 14 teams vying for the Vince Lombardi Trophy, the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 promises to deliver intense competition, dramatic finishes, and unforgettable moments that will be remembered for years to come.
Single-Elimination Format: Each game is a do-or-die matchup, adding to the intensity and suspense.
The AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 adopts a single-elimination format, which means that each game is a do-or-die matchup. This format amplifies the intensity and suspense of the playoffs, as every play, every yard, and every turnover can have a significant impact on the outcome.
Unlike the regular season, where teams have the opportunity to recover from losses and make up for poor performances, the playoffs offer no such luxury. Every game is a must-win situation, and teams must bring their best effort from the very first snap.
The single-elimination format also adds an element of unpredictability to the playoffs. Even the most dominant teams can be upset by an underdog if they are not fully prepared and focused. This unpredictability keeps fans on the edge of their seats and makes every game a potential thriller.
The high stakes and do-or-die nature of the single-elimination format create an electrifying atmosphere that is unmatched in the regular season. Players and coaches feel the pressure, and the fans’ emotions run high as they witness the drama and excitement of the playoffs unfold.
Overall, the single-elimination format of the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 ensures that every game is a must-watch event, filled with intensity, suspense, and the relentless pursuit of the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
The single-elimination format is a true test of a team’s character and resilience. Only the strongest and most determined teams will survive and advance to the next round, making the playoffs a true battle of attrition.
Division Winners and Wild Cards: The four division winners and 10 wild card teams make up the playoff field.
The AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 features a 14-team playoff format, consisting of the four division winners and 10 wild card teams. These teams have earned their spots in the playoffs based on their regular season records and performances.
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Division Winners:
The four AFC division winners automatically qualify for the playoffs and receive a first-round bye. They are seeded 1 through 4 based on their regular season records. The division winners are typically the strongest teams in the conference and have a significant advantage in the playoffs due to their home-field advantage and extra week of rest.
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Wild Card Teams:
The remaining 10 playoff spots are awarded to wild card teams, which are the teams with the best records among those that did not win their division. These teams are seeded 5 through 14 based on their regular season records. The wild card teams compete in the Wild Card Round to determine who advances to the Divisional Round.
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Wild Card Round:
The Wild Card Round is a single-elimination round where the four lowest-seeded wild card teams (seeds 13-14) face off against the two highest-seeded wild card teams (seeds 5-6). The winners of these games advance to the Divisional Round to face the division winners.
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Playoff Seeding:
The playoff seeding is crucial as it determines the matchups and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. The higher-seeded team in each matchup will host the game. The top two seeds in each conference receive a first-round bye, while the remaining teams compete in the Wild Card Round.
The combination of division winners and wild card teams creates a diverse and competitive playoff field, ensuring that the best teams in the AFC have a chance to compete for the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
Home-Field Advantage: Higher-seeded teams earn the privilege of playing at home throughout the playoffs.
In the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024, higher-seeded teams are granted the coveted home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. This means that they will host their playoff games in their own stadium, in front of their passionate home crowd.
Home-field advantage is a significant benefit in the playoffs, as it provides teams with several advantages:
- Crowd Support: Playing at home allows teams to harness the energy and support of their loyal fans. The roar of the crowd can be intimidating for opposing teams and can give the home team an extra boost of motivation.
- Familiar Surroundings: Home teams are more familiar with their own stadium, including the field conditions, the dimensions, and any unique quirks. This familiarity can give them a slight edge in terms of comfort and confidence.
- Travel and Rest: Home teams do not have to travel to an away stadium, which can be physically and mentally draining. They can also maintain their regular routines and sleep in their own beds, which can contribute to better performance.
- History and Momentum: Home teams often have a psychological advantage due to their history and momentum in their own stadium. They may have a winning record at home and have developed a sense of invincibility in front of their home crowd.
While home-field advantage does not guarantee victory, it certainly provides a significant boost to teams’ chances of winning. Throughout history, home teams have consistently performed better in the playoffs compared to away teams.
Therefore, securing a higher seed in the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 is crucial for teams aiming to advance deep into the playoffs and ultimately hoist the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
The home-field advantage adds an extra layer of excitement and intensity to the playoffs. When two evenly matched teams face off in a hostile environment, the atmosphere is electric, and the game often comes down to the wire.
Road to the Super Bowl: The AFC champion advances to the Super Bowl to face the NFC champion.
The ultimate goal for every team in the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 is to reach the Super Bowl, the biggest game in American football. The road to the Super Bowl is a long and arduous one, but the rewards are immense.
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AFC Championship Game:
The AFC Championship Game is the final hurdle that the AFC champion must overcome before reaching the Super Bowl. This game is played between the winners of the two AFC Divisional Round games. The winner of the AFC Championship Game is crowned the AFC champion and advances to the Super Bowl.
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Super Bowl:
The Super Bowl is the annual championship game of the National Football League (NFL), where the AFC champion faces off against the NFC champion. The Super Bowl is the most-watched sporting event in the United States and is a cultural phenomenon that captivates millions of fans around the world.
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Home-Field Advantage:
The Super Bowl is played at a neutral site, which means that neither team has a home-field advantage. This ensures that the game is played on a level playing field and that the best team on that day will be crowned the champion.
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Legacy and Immortality:
Winning the Super Bowl is the pinnacle of achievement for any NFL player, coach, and organization. It is a legacy-defining moment that can immortalize a team and its players in the annals of football history.
The Road to the Super Bowl is paved with challenges, but the rewards are worth the effort. For the teams that make it to the Super Bowl, it is a chance to etch their names into football history and become part of the game’s greatest legacy.
High-Stakes Matchups: Every play matters as teams battle for a chance to hoist the Lombardi Trophy.
The AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 features high-stakes matchups where every play carries immense significance. With so much at stake, teams must bring their best effort and execute at the highest level to achieve their championship aspirations.
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Win or Go Home:
In the playoffs, there is no room for error. Every game is a do-or-die situation, and teams must win to advance. This creates an intense and pressure-packed atmosphere where every play feels like it could be the turning point of the game.
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Magnified Mistakes:
The high stakes of the playoffs magnify the impact of mistakes. Even small errors can have大きなconsequences, as they can lead to turnovers, missed field goals, or big plays for the opposing team. Teams must be disciplined and focused to minimize mistakes and capitalize on their opportunities.
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Clutch Moments:
The playoffs are often decided by clutch moments, where players make game-changing plays under immense pressure. These moments can include spectacular catches, game-saving tackles, or關鍵interceptions. The ability to perform in these clutch moments can be the difference between victory and defeat.
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Legacy and History:
The playoffs provide players and teams with the opportunity to create a lasting legacy. Legendary performances and iconic plays can be etched into football history, forever remembered by fans and pundits alike. The stakes are even higher for players and teams who have yet to win a Super Bowl, as they strive to cement their place among the game’s elite.
The high-stakes nature of the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 ensures that every game is a must-watch event, filled with drama, excitement, and the relentless pursuit of gridiron glory.
Unforgettable Moments: The playoffs are known for iconic plays and unforgettable moments that live on in football history.
The AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 is sure to produce its own share of unforgettable moments that will be replayed and discussed for years to come.
Here are a few examples of unforgettable moments from past AFC playoff games:
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“The Music City Miracle”:
In the 1999 AFC Divisional Round, the Tennessee Titans pulled off one of the most improbable plays in NFL history. With just seconds remaining on the clock and trailing by 3 points, Titans wide receiver Kevin Dyson caught a lateral pass and returned it 75 yards for a touchdown, securing a dramatic victory over the Buffalo Bills.
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“The Immaculate Reception”:
In the 1972 AFC Divisional Round, the Pittsburgh Steelers faced the Oakland Raiders in a game that would forever be etched into football lore. With the Steelers trailing by 4 points late in the fourth quarter, quarterback Terry Bradshaw heaved a pass intended for John Fuqua. However, the ball was deflected by Raiders safety Jack Tatum and somehow ended up in the hands of running back Franco Harris, who returned it for a touchdown. The play, which became known as “The Immaculate Reception,” is considered one of the greatest and most controversial plays in NFL history.
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“The Drive”:
In the 1987 AFC Championship Game, the Denver Broncos faced the Cleveland Browns in a game that would showcase one of the greatest displays of quarterbacking in NFL history. Trailing by 12 points with just over 5 minutes remaining in the game, Broncos quarterback John Elway led his team on a 98-yard touchdown drive, culminating in a touchdown pass to wide receiver Mark Jackson. Elway’s heroics and leadership in this game earned him the nickname “The Comeback Kid.”
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“The Helmet Catch”:
In the 2007 AFC Championship Game, the New York Giants faced the Green Bay Packers in a game that would feature one of the most iconic catches in NFL history. With the Giants trailing by 3 points in the fourth quarter, quarterback Eli Manning escaped the Packers’ pass rush and heaved a pass down the field intended for wide receiver David Tyree. Tyree made an incredible one-handed catch, pinning the ball against his helmet as he fell to the ground. The Giants would go on to win the game and eventually the Super Bowl.
These are just a few examples of the many unforgettable moments that the AFC playoffs have produced over the years. With the 2024 playoffs just around the corner, fans can期待 to witness even more incredible and memorable plays that will live on in football history.
The AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 promises to deliver an unforgettable postseason experience, filled with captivating storylines, fierce rivalries, and the ultimate quest for gridiron glory. With so much at stake, every play, every yard, and every turnover has the potential to create a lasting memory for fans and players alike.
Passionate Fan Base: AFC fans across the country will be cheering on their teams with unwavering support.
The AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 will undoubtedly ignite the passion and enthusiasm of football fans across the country. AFC teams boast some of the most dedicated and passionate fan bases in the NFL, and these fans will be out in full force to support their teams during the playoffs.
Here are a few examples of the passionate fan bases that will be on display during the AFC playoffs:
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Kansas City Chiefs:
The Kansas City Chiefs have quickly become one of the most popular teams in the NFL, thanks in large part to their high-powered offense and charismatic quarterback, Patrick Mahomes. Chiefs fans are known for their loud and energetic support, creating a sea of red at Arrowhead Stadium on game days.
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Buffalo Bills:
The Buffalo Bills have a long and storied history, and their fans are some of the most loyal and dedicated in the NFL. Despite enduring years of heartbreak and disappointment, Bills fans have never wavered in their support for their team. Their unwavering optimism and resilience have earned them a reputation as one of the most passionate fan bases in the league.
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New England Patriots:
The New England Patriots have been a dominant force in the AFC for over two decades, and their fans have been a key part of their success. Patriots fans are known for their knowledge of the game and their unwavering support, even when the team is struggling. They pack Gillette Stadium to capacity every game, creating an intimidating atmosphere for opposing teams.
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Pittsburgh Steelers:
The Pittsburgh Steelers have one of the most passionate and tradition-rich fan bases in the NFL. Steelers fans are known for their black and gold attire and their unwavering support for their team, regardless of the circumstances. They fill Heinz Field to capacity every game, creating a raucous and intimidating atmosphere that is unmatched in the NFL.
These are just a few examples of the many passionate fan bases that will be represented in the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024. With so much at stake, these fans will be cheering on their teams with unwavering support, creating an electric atmosphere that will add to the excitement and drama of the playoffs.
The passion and enthusiasm of the AFC fan base is a testament to the love and appreciation that fans have for the game of football. These fans will be an integral part of the playoff experience, providing a backdrop of noise, energy, and excitement that will make the games even more memorable.
Countdown to the Super Bowl: The playoffs serve as the thrilling prelude to the biggest game in American football.
The AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 is not just about determining the conference champion; it is also the countdown to the Super Bowl, the biggest game in American football. The playoffs create a sense of anticipation and excitement as fans eagerly await the culmination of the NFL season.
Here are a few reasons why the playoffs are such a thrilling prelude to the Super Bowl:
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High-Stakes Matchups:
Every game in the playoffs is a high-stakes matchup, with teams fighting for their chance to reach the Super Bowl. The intensity and drama of these games is unmatched in the regular season, as every play has the potential to be a game-changer.
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Unpredictability:
The playoffs are known for their unpredictability, as any team can make a run to the Super Bowl, regardless of their regular season record. This unpredictability keeps fans on the edge of their seats, as they never know which team will come out on top.
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Iconic Moments:
The playoffs are often the stage for iconic moments and unforgettable plays that live on in football history. These moments, such as spectacular catches, game-saving tackles, and關鍵interceptions, add to the legacy of the game and create memories that fans will cherish for years to come.
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Building Excitement:
The playoffs serve as a build-up to the Super Bowl, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement among fans. As the playoffs progress, the excitement and buzz surrounding the Super Bowl continues to grow, reaching its peak on Super Bowl Sunday.
The AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 will undoubtedly provide a thrilling prelude to the Super Bowl, with high-stakes matchups, unpredictable outcomes, and iconic moments that will captivate fans and leave them eagerly awaiting the biggest game of the year.
The playoffs are a time for fans to come together and celebrate their love for the game of football. Whether they are cheering for their favorite team or simply enjoying the spectacle of the playoffs, fans can be sure that they will be treated to an unforgettable experience.
FAQ
Welcome to the FAQ section for the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024!
Here, we aim to provide answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding the upcoming playoffs.
Question 1: When do the AFC playoffs start?
Answer: The AFC playoffs are scheduled to begin on [Date] with the Wild Card Round.
Question 2: Which teams have clinched a playoff berth in the AFC?
Answer: The teams that have clinched a playoff berth in the AFC are [List of teams].
Question 3: How many teams make the AFC playoffs?
Answer: A total of 14 teams make the AFC playoffs, including the four division winners and 10 wild card teams.
Question 4: What is the format of the AFC playoffs?
Answer: The AFC playoffs follow a single-elimination format, meaning that each game is a do-or-die matchup. The four division winners receive a first-round bye, while the remaining 10 teams compete in the Wild Card Round to determine who advances to the Divisional Round.
Question 5: Where can I watch the AFC playoff games?
Answer: AFC playoff games will be televised on various networks, including CBS, FOX, NBC, and ESPN. You can also stream the games online through services such as NFL Game Pass and fuboTV.
Question 6: Who are the favorites to win the AFC Championship?
Answer: The Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Cincinnati Bengals are considered to be the favorites to win the AFC Championship based on their regular season performances.
Question 7: What is the date and location of the AFC Championship Game?
Answer: The AFC Championship Game is scheduled to be played on [Date] at a location to be determined.
Closing Note:
We hope this FAQ section has provided you with the information you need regarding the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024. For more updates and details, be sure to check the official NFL website and follow reputable sports news sources.
Now that you have a better understanding of the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024, here are some additional tips to enhance your playoff experience:
- Plan Your Viewing Parties: Gather your friends and family for exciting viewing parties throughout the playoffs. Create a festive atmosphere with decorations, snacks, and drinks to make the games even more enjoyable.
- Make Predictions and Join Fantasy Playoffs: Engage in friendly predictions and participate in fantasy playoff leagues to add an extra layer of excitement to the games. Compete with your friends and colleagues to see who can make the most accurate predictions or have the best fantasy team.
- Stay Informed and Follow the Games: Keep up with the latest news, stats, and highlights from the playoffs through various media outlets and social media platforms. Follow your favorite teams and players to stay informed about their progress and performances.
- Enjoy the Spectacle and Sportsmanship: The playoffs are a time to celebrate the sport of football and appreciate the incredible athleticism and skill of the players. Remember to show good sportsmanship, whether your team wins or loses.
Tips
Here are some practical tips to make the most of the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024:
Tip 1: Plan Your Viewing Schedule:
With multiple games being played over several weeks, it’s important to plan your viewing schedule in advance. Check the full playoff schedule and mark the dates and times of the games you want to watch. Set reminders and clear your schedule to avoid missing any of the exciting matchups.
Tip 2: Create a Playoff Bracket:
Download or print a playoff bracket and fill it out with your predictions. Make picks for each game and track the progress of your bracket as the playoffs unfold. This is a fun way to engage with the playoffs and see how your predictions stack up against the actual results.
Tip 3: Follow the Playoff Coverage:
Stay informed and up-to-date with the latest playoff news, highlights, and analysis. Follow reputable sports news sources, including websites, social media platforms, and sports channels, to get the most comprehensive coverage. This will help you stay engaged and knowledgeable throughout the playoffs.
Tip 4: Enjoy the Playoff Atmosphere:
The playoffs are a time to celebrate the sport of football and the incredible talent of the players. Whether you’re watching the games at home or at a sports bar, create a festive atmosphere to enhance your viewing experience. Wear your favorite team’s jersey, decorate your space with team colors, and enjoy game-day snacks and drinks.
Closing Note:
Remember, the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 is all about enjoying the excitement and drama of the postseason. So, whether your team makes it to the playoffs or not, sit back, relax, and appreciate the incredible performances and unforgettable moments that the playoffs are sure to bring.
With these tips in mind, you’re all set to navigate the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 like a pro. Get ready for an unforgettable postseason filled with thrilling matchups, unexpected outcomes, and lasting memories.
Conclusion
The AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 promises to be an unforgettable postseason experience, filled with intense competition, dramatic finishes, and unforgettable moments.
With 14 teams vying for the Vince Lombardi Trophy, the playoffs will showcase the best that the AFC has to offer. The single-elimination format ensures that every game is a must-win situation, adding to the intensity and suspense of the playoffs.
The combination of division winners and wild card teams creates a diverse and competitive playoff field, ensuring that the most deserving teams have a chance to compete for the championship.
Home-field advantage will play a crucial role in the playoffs, as teams will look to harness the energy and support of their passionate home crowd to gain an edge.
The Road to the Super Bowl is a long and arduous one, but the rewards are immense. The AFC champion will earn the right to represent the conference in the Super Bowl, the biggest game in American football.
The playoffs are also a time for unforgettable moments, where players make game-changing plays under immense pressure. These moments can be the difference between victory and defeat and can live on in football history for years to come.
Finally, the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 will be a testament to the passion and dedication of AFC fans across the country. These fans will be cheering on their teams with unwavering support, creating an electric atmosphere that will add to the excitement and drama of the playoffs.
So, get ready for an unforgettable postseason journey as the AFC’s best teams battle it out for gridiron glory. The AFC Playoff Schedule 2024 is sure to deliver an unforgettable experience that will leave fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Thank you for joining us on this exciting journey through the AFC Playoff Schedule 2024. We hope you enjoy the playoffs and all the incredible moments that they have to offer.