21st century's 5 best NFC Divisional Round games ranked feat. Packers vs Cowboys in 2015

The divisional round of the NFL playoffs often represents some of the most exciting matchups in the postseason. The final four teams in each conference face off across two games and feature some of the best overall teams in the NFL. This has created plenty of memorable contests over the years, including these five from the NFC during the 21st century.

Best NFC divisional round playoff games in NFL history since 2000

NFC Divisional round (GETTY)

#5 - 49ers vs Saints in 2012

The San Francisco 49ers and New Orleans Saints combined to score 21 points across the final four minutes of their divisional round game. Drew Brees hit Jimmy Graham on a 66-yard touchdown to take a late lead, but the other tight end, Vernon Davis, scored the 36-32 game-winner from Alex Smith with just nine seconds remaining in regulation.

#4 - Buccaneers vs Rams in 2022

Tom Brady came up just short of another epic comeback victory in this classic between the Los Angeles Rams and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Rams built a 27-3 lead in the third quarter, but Brady came storming back to score 24 consecutive points and tie the game. Matthew Stafford then hit a deep pass to Cooper Kupp to set up a game-winning field goal. The Rams won 30-27.

#3 - Packers vs Cowboys in 2015

The biggest question surrounding this game, which is still a hot debate, is whether or not Dez Bryant made an epic late-game catch on a throw by Tony Romo down the sidelines. It was initially ruled a catch before being overturned by the officials, which sealed a 26-21 victory for the Green Bay Packers over the Dallas Cowboys by ending their comeback attempt.

#2 - Packers vs Cardinals in 2016

Aaron Rodgers did everything he could to try and earn a victory for the Green Bay Packers, including two miraculous fourth-down conversions of 20+ yards to Jeff Janis. The Arizona Cardinals eventually won the game 26-20 in overtime with a legendary performance by Larry Fitzgerald, who recorded 80 yards on the first drive of overtime.

#1 - Vikings vs Saints in 2018

This game will forever be remembered as the Minneapolis Miracle for the Minnesota Vikings' unlikely victory over the New Orleans Saints. Drew Brees rallied back from a 17-0 deficit at halftime to eventually take a one-point lead with just 30 seconds remaining in the game.

On the final drive, Case Keenum found Stefon Diggs, who broke a tackle and ran it all the way for a game-winning touchdown. Final score: Vikings 29 - 24 Saints.