TheNew England Patriotsearned theirfirst playoff win since the 2018 NFL playoffswith a16-3 wild-card victoryover the Los Angeles Chargers, but they didn't come out of it completely unscathed.
Coach Mike Vrabel suffered a bloodied lip near the end of regulation after celebrating a sack with star defensive tackleMilton Williams.
Williams got what was, effectively, a game-ending sack ofJustin Herberton a fourth-and-9 coming out of the two-minute warning. The 26-year-old lineman came screaming through the middle of the Chargers' offensive line to wallop Herbert for a 9-yard loss.
Week 1: Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa (18) makes a catch for a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13." style="max-width:100%; height:auto; border-radius:6px; margin:10px 0;" loading="lazy" /> 
Best images of the 2025 NFL season
Week 1: Detroit Lions wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa (18)makes a catch for a touchdownagainst the Green Bay Packers during the fourth quarter at Lambeau Field. The play was originally ruled an incomplete pass, but the call was overturned. Despite TeSlaa's effort, the Packers won the game 27-13.
Williams then went over to the sideline and sought out his coach. As Vrabel brought him in for a hug, Williams popped him in the face with his helmet, drawing blood, as captured by the NBC broadcast.
The 50-year-old coach seemed amused by the incident. He sought out Williams to show the defensive tackle he was bleeding before wrapping him up with another hug.
"That's one of the great shots of the year right there," NBC color commentator Cris Collinsworth said while watching the scene unfold.
"[Mike Vrabel] tried to kiss Milton Williams, and he's bleeding, and there's never been a happier bleeder!" - Cris Collinsworth 🏈🎙️#NFL#NFLPlayoffs#SNFpic.twitter.com/EGyP7DubDj
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing)January 12, 2026
