The road to Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara has reached its most intense phase. Following a wild Wild Card weekend, the 2026 NFL Divisional Round is officially set. With powerhouse matchups on the horizon and a massive coaching earthquake in New York, here is everything you need to know about the upcoming weekend.

1. AFC Showdown: Buffalo Bills vs. Denver Broncos

The Buffalo Bills (No. 6) are coming off a grit-and-grind victory against Jacksonville, proving they can win on the road. Now, Josh Allen leads his squad into the thin air of Empower Field at Mile High to face the top-seeded Denver Broncos.

• The Matchup: Saturday, Jan 17, 4:30 PM ET

• Key Storyline: Can Buffalo’s high-octane offense overcome a well-rested Broncos defense? Denver has been the most consistent team in the AFC all season, but the "Playoff Josh Allen" effect is very real.

2. NFC West Rivalry: San Francisco 49ers vs. Seattle Seahawks

There is no love lost in this one. The 49ers (No. 6) stunned the defending champion Eagles in the Wild Card round, and their reward is a trip to Seattle.

• The Matchup: Saturday, Jan 17, 8:00 PM ET

• Key Storyline: The Seahawks (No. 1) held a bye week and are favorites at Lumen Field, but San Francisco has found its rhythm at exactly the right time. Expect a physical, defensive battle in front of the "12th Man."

3. The Frozen Tundra: LA Rams vs. Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears (No. 2) are hosting their first divisional home game in 15 years. They welcome the Los Angeles Rams (No. 5) to what is expected to be a frigid Soldier Field.

• The Matchup: Sunday, Jan 18, 6:30 PM ET

• Key Storyline: Temperature forecasts are dipping into the single digits. Can Matthew Stafford and the Rams' warm-weather offense handle the Chicago chill? The Bears' defense thrives in these conditions, making this a true survival test.

4. Coaching Earthquake: John Harbaugh to the New York Giants?

While eight teams are fighting for a ring, the New York Giants are making the biggest headlines off the field. Reports today (Jan 15, 2026) indicate that the Giants are finalizing a massive 5-year deal to hire John Harbaugh as their next head coach.

After a legendary 18-season run in Baltimore, Harbaugh is expected to bring his championship DNA to the Big Apple. This move effectively shifts the power balance in the NFC East and gives Giants fans their most exciting news in years.

Gear Up for the Postseason

Whether you are cheering from the couch or heading to a cold-weather stadium like Soldier Field, make sure you have the right gear. The playoffs are about passion, strategy, and staying warm!