Jan 13, 2026
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The 2025-2026 NFL playoffs have reached the Divisional Round, with the wild-card weekend delivering plenty of drama and upsets. The field is now down to the final eight teams still alive in pursuit of Super Bowl 60. Here’s a breakdown of each remaining contender, their path here, key strengths, and what makes them dangerous (or vulnerable) moving forward.
AFC Contenders
1. Denver Broncos (No. 1 seed, first-round bye)
The Broncos secured the top seed in the AFC with a strong 14-3 regular season, riding a balanced attack and one of the league’s stingiest defenses. After resting during wild-card weekend, they’re primed to host the divisional round. Their defense has been elite at generating pressure and turnovers, and the offense has enough firepower to keep games close. Home-field advantage in the thin Denver air could be a major factor as they aim for their first deep playoff run in years
2. New England Patriots (No. 2 seed)
The Pats dominated their way to a 14-3 record and the AFC East crown, with rookie sensation Drake Maye looking like a franchise QB already. They dispatched the Chargers convincingly in the wild-card round (16-3), showcasing a stout defense and efficient offense. New England’s experience under pressure and home-field edge make them a serious threat—they host the Texans next and look poised for another step toward contention.
6. Buffalo Bills (No. 6 seed)
Josh Allen and the Bills are perennial playoff warriors, and they survived a tight wild-card battle against the Jaguars (27-24). Buffalo’s high-powered offense, led by Allen’s dual-threat ability, can explode at any moment. Their defense has stepped up in key spots, and despite the road matchup against Denver, few teams match their clutch gene. If they can control the line of scrimmage, they have the tools to pull off another road upset.
5. Houston Texans (No. 5 seed)
The Texans made a statement with a dominant 30-6 wild-card win over the Steelers, marking their first road playoff victory in franchise history. CJ Stroud continues to mature into an elite QB, supported by a dynamic receiving corps and improving defense. Houston’s momentum is real, and heading to New England presents a tough but winnable test. Youthful energy and explosive plays could carry them far if they stay disciplined.
AFC Champion Odds
Odds by SportsBetting.ag
New England Patriots +240
Buffalo Bills +260
Denver Broncos +285
Houston Texans +320
NFC Contenders
1. Seattle Seahawks (No. 1 seed, first-round bye)
Seattle ran away with the NFC West at 14-3, led by a resurgent Sam Darnold under center and a ferocious defense. The Seahawks earned the top seed and home-field throughout the NFC playoffs. Their balanced roster, strong run game, and ability to win close games make them the team to beat in the conference. Hosting the 49ers in the divisional round sets up a classic rivalry clash with major implications
2. Chicago Bears (No. 2 seed)
Caleb Williams has arrived. The Bears claimed the NFC North and stunned the Packers in a thrilling wild-card win (31-27), with Williams engineering a comeback that showcased his poise and playmaking. Chicago’s offense is electric, and their defense has gelled at the right time. Hosting the Rams next gives them a real shot at the NFC Championship Game—they’re young, hungry, and playing with house money.5.
Los Angeles Rams (No. 5 seed)
The Rams survived a nail-biter against the Panthers (34-31) in the wild-card round, proving their resilience. Matthew Stafford’s veteran savvy, paired with elite weapons and a creative offense under Sean McVay, keeps them dangerous. Their defense can generate pressure, and road success has been a hallmark. Traveling to Chicago will test them, but if they control tempo, they can advance.
6. San Francisco 49ers (No. 6 seed)
The Niners knocked off the defending-champion Eagles in a gritty wild-card victory (23-19), showing championship mettle. Their physical, well-coached style remains a matchup nightmare, with a strong ground game and opportunistic defense. Heading to Seattle for a divisional rematch (after splitting the regular-season series) adds intrigue. If they can limit big plays and win the trenches, San Francisco is built for another deep run.
NFC Champion Odds
Odds by SportsBetting.ag
Seattle Seahawks +120
Los Angeles Rams +165
Chicago Bears +700
San Francisco 49ers +800
Super Bowl Champion Odds
Odds by SportsBetting.ag
Seattle Seahawks +300
Los Angeles Rams +325
Buffalo Bills +575
New England Patriots +600
Denver Broncos +850
Houston Texans +850
Chicago Bears +1400
San Francisco 49ers +1800
These eight teams represent a mix of veteran experience, rising stars, elite defenses, and explosive offenses. The divisional round kicks off soon, with Broncos-Bills and Seahawks-49ers on Saturday, followed by Texans-Patriots and Rams-Bears on Sunday. Any of these squads could make a legitimate push to Super Bowl 60—expect fireworks, comebacks, and plenty of storylines in the weeks ahead.
Who do you think will emerge from each conference? The playoffs are wide open!