Overview
- The divisional round runs Jan. 17–18, with Broncos–Bills and Seahawks–49ers on Saturday followed by Patriots–Texans and Bears–Rams on Sunday.
- Denver’s league-leading pass rush and home altitude await MVP Josh Allen, who is set to play through injuries, as AI models tilt slightly toward the Broncos in a matchup featuring a Buffalo franchise still seeking its first Super Bowl.
- Seattle enters with the NFL’s best scoring defense after a 13–3 Week 18 win over San Francisco, while the 49ers travel without All‑Pro tight end George Kittle and the Seahawks list quarterback Sam Darnold as questionable though he says he will be ready.
- Houston rides a 10‑game win streak into Foxborough with receiver Nico Collins in concussion protocol, as Drake Maye leads a stout Patriots defense against a Texans team that, like Buffalo, has never won a Super Bowl.
- Chicago’s subfreezing forecast could test the Rams’ attack, with Matthew Stafford 1–8 in games near 20°F, as Soldier Field provides a harsh stage for a prime‑time finish.