Divisional Round Recaps (Jan. 17–18)
Broncos 33, Bills 30 (OT)
In one of the wildest playoff games of the season, Denver edged Buffalo 33–30 in overtime. The Broncos overcame turnovers and built a late lead before Buffalo tied it, sending the game to extra time. Denver’s defense created a pivotal turnover in OT, setting up Wil Lutz’s game-winning kick, but the victory came at a major cost as QB Bo Nix suffered a season-ending ankle fracture late in the game.
Seahawks 41, 49ers 6 (Divisional)
Seattle completely dominated San Francisco in a 41–6 blowout. The Seahawks struck early with a kickoff return touchdown and never let up, as Kenneth Walker III gashed the 49ers on the ground and the defense shut down Brock Purdy’s offense. This emphatic win propelled Seattle into the NFC Championship with undeniable momentum.
Patriots 28, Texans 16 (Divisional)
New England flexed both sides of the ball in a 28–16 victory over Houston. The Patriots forced five turnovers, including a pick-six, and Drake Maye made key throws when it mattered most. With the Texans, quarterback CJ Stroud had one of the worst performances in playoff history with four interceptions in the first half. And with Houston’s defense being strong all year, they still couldn’t contain New England’s balanced attack, sending the Pats to the AFC title game.
Rams 20, Bears 17 (OT, Divisional)
In a chilly Soldier Field overtime thriller, Los Angeles edged Chicago 20–17. Bears rookie QB Caleb Williams delivered a miraculous late touchdown to force OT, but a costly interception in overtime set up Harrison Mevis’ AKA “The Thicker Kicker” with the game-winning 42-yard field goal for the Rams, punching Los Angeles’ ticket to the NFC Championship.
Upcoming Conference Championship Previews
AFC Championship – Broncos vs. Patriots
The AFC title game pits the top-seeded Denver Broncos against the surging New England Patriots. Denver survived a dramatic overtime win but lost QB Bo Nix to a broken ankle, thrusting backup Jarrett Stidham into his first big moment. The Broncos’ elite defense will be tested by New England’s balanced attack and great playmakers, making this matchup a fascinating chess match between stability and adversity.
Chace S.: I got the Broncos. Although Bo Nix is out for this game, I can rely on Jarrett Stidham. It’ll be hard getting passes off, but RJ Harvey runs the ball hard and the Patriots’ defense will be struggling.
Chase M: The Broncos will win because we have a great running back duo in R.J. Harvey and J.K. Dobbins, and Courtland Sutton will burn Christian Gonzales off the line for at least 100 receiving yards, and nobody on the Patriots is stopping Evan Engram. Not only that, but Wil Lutz isn’t missing a field goal anywhere inside the Patriots’ 50. Marvin Mims and Pat Bryant will combine for at least 150 receiving yards and two touchdowns, and the only offensive worry is Jarret Stidham being the quarterback. Luckily, we have a good offensive line to protect them. Defensively, the Broncos are going to dominate. Nobody is stopping Nik Bonitto from getting through the line, and Patrick Surtain is going to lock down Stefon Diggs. Having Talanoa Hufanga, Zach Allen, and Alex Singleton playing around them to pick up the other receivers and stop the rushing game from Rhamondre Stevenson will give them the edge and P2 also has Ja’Quan McMillian to back him up on the receiving game.
Roland – PATRIOTS WIN!!!!!
NFC Championship – Seahawks vs. Rams
Seattle’s high-octane performance in the divisional round sets the stage for a physical NFC title clash with the Los Angeles Rams. The Seahawks’ offense has been clicking on all cylinders, while their defense smothered the 49ers. The Rams, battle-tested after an overtime win over Chicago, will rely on their veteran leadership and tough defense to try to slow Seattle’s charge toward Super Bowl LX
Chase M.: This game isn’t even going to be close. The Seahawks are going to dominate the Rams. I love Matthew Stafford, and I know he is going to win MVP, but NOBODY on their team is stopping Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Not only that, but the Rams’ defensive line has to deal with Kenneth Walker, and their only hope is Kobie Turner stopping him. JSN is going to destroy Cobie Durant and have multiple receiving touchdowns, and Sam Darnold will have a field day passing. Defensively though, I feel like the Seahawks might struggle against the Rams, and I don’t see a way to stop Puka Nacua. I will say that seeing the two best wide receivers in the league battling to prove who’s better will be very entertaining, but overall the Seahawks are moving on to the Super Bowl.
Chace S.: I picked the Seahawks. They are too dominant for any team in the league. They are playing like the 2026 Indiana Hoosiers and no one is stopping them. The defense is relentless and tough following the offense with all these weapons on the field at once. JSN is going to have a breakout game. Mark my words.
Roland- I’m picking the Rams to get the upset over the Seahawks. The Rams’ defense can stop the Seahawks offense and Puka Nacua will make some huge catches to bring them the win.
