Full Breakdown
NFL Christmas Day 2025: A Tripleheader of Divisional Rivalries
12/26/2025, 2:11:32 AM
Overview of the Christmas Day Matchups
The NFL's Christmas Day slate for 2025 features three divisional matchups: the Dallas Cowboys at the Washington Commanders, the Detroit Lions at the Minnesota Vikings, and the Denver Broncos at the Kansas City Chiefs. Each game carries its own narrative, with playoff implications for some teams, while others are simply playing for pride after being eliminated from postseason contention.
Cowboys vs. Commanders: A Battle of Elimination
The first game kicks off at 1 p.m. ET, with the Dallas Cowboys (6-8-1) visiting the Washington Commanders (4-11). Both teams have been eliminated from playoff contention, making this matchup more about pride than postseason aspirations. The Cowboys are favored by 7 to 9 points, depending on the sportsbook, with an over/under set around 50.5 points.
Josh Johnson will start at quarterback for Washington, filling in for the injured Jayden Daniels and Marcus Mariota. Johnson's experience as a journeyman quarterback may not be enough to overcome a struggling Commanders team that has lost nine of its last ten games. In contrast, Dak Prescott leads a Cowboys offense that has shown potential despite recent struggles, including a three-game losing streak. Analysts expect the Cowboys to exploit Washington's weak defense, which ranks among the worst in the league.
Lions vs. Vikings: A Must-Win for Detroit
The second game features the Detroit Lions (8-7) visiting the Minnesota Vikings (7-8) at 4:30 p.m. ET. The Lions are still in the hunt for a playoff spot and need a win to keep their hopes alive. They are favored by 7 to 7.5 points, with an over/under of 43.5 points.
The Vikings will start rookie Max Brosmer, who has struggled in previous outings, including a disastrous performance against the Seattle Seahawks where he threw four interceptions. The Lions, meanwhile, are looking to bounce back after two consecutive losses. Analysts predict that Detroit's potent offense, led by Jared Goff and supported by running back Jahmyr Gibbs, will be too much for the Vikings' depleted defense.
Broncos vs. Chiefs: A Clash of Struggling Teams
The final game of the day features the Denver Broncos (12-3) against the Kansas City Chiefs (6-9) at 8:15 p.m. ET. The Broncos are in contention for the No. 1 seed in the AFC and are favored by 12 to 13.5 points. The over/under is set at 36.5 points, reflecting the expectation of a low-scoring affair due to both teams' recent performances.
The Chiefs will start Chris Oladokun, their third-string quarterback, after injuries sidelined both Patrick Mahomes and Gardner Minshew. This has led to skepticism about Kansas City's ability to compete effectively. In contrast, the Broncos are expected to capitalize on their strong defense and running game to secure a decisive victory.
Conclusion
While the Christmas Day matchups may lack the playoff stakes initially anticipated, they still offer fans an opportunity to enjoy competitive football. With key players sidelined and teams fighting for pride, the day promises to deliver excitement and drama for NFL enthusiasts.
