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NFL Playoffs 2026: How to Watch

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Tuesday, January 13th 2026 at 10:52 GMT by Sporting News

How to Follow the Action

The playoff games will be widely accessible, with broadcasts split across major networks: CBS, NBC, Fox, and ESPN. Fans looking to stream can utilize platforms like NFL+, Paramount+, Peacock, and ESPN+. This broad distribution aims to maximize viewership as teams battle for gridiron supremacy.

Wild Card Round: Underdog Opportunities and Early Elimination

The Wild Card Round, kicking off on Saturday, January 16th, and concluding Sunday, January 17th, provides a crucial opportunity for underdogs to upset the established order. Let's break down the matchups:

• Baltimore Ravens (5) @ Houston Texans (4): This game pits a Ravens team known for its defensive prowess against a Texans offense that's been surprising many this season. The Texans' home-field advantage could be a significant factor. The Ravens' Lamar Jackson will be looking to exploit any weaknesses in the Texans' defense, but Houston's pass rush poses a serious threat.
• Indianapolis Colts (6) @ Buffalo Bills (3): The Bills, consistently a contender, face a Colts team looking to prove they're more than just a playoff participant. Buffalo's strong running game will be tested against the Colts' front seven. A key factor will be whether the Colts' rookie quarterback can handle the pressure of facing a Bills defense.
• Jacksonville Jaguars (7) @ Kansas City Chiefs (2): A classic David versus Goliath matchup. While the Jaguars are a tough opponent, the Chiefs, led by Patrick Mahomes, are a formidable challenge. The Chiefs' experience in high-pressure situations will be a significant advantage.
• Detroit Lions (5) @ Miami Dolphins (4): This game features two teams with explosive offenses. The Dolphins' speed on offense will be countered by the Lions' strong defensive line. Containing Miami's quarterback will be vital for Detroit's success.

Divisional Round: The Contenders Emerge

The Divisional Round, scheduled for January 23rd and 24th, sees the Wild Card winners face off against the top seeds in their conferences. This stage separates the pretenders from the true championship contenders.

• Lowest Ranked Wild Card Winner @ San Francisco 49ers (1): The 49ers, boasting a near-perfect regular season record, are heavy favorites. However, a hot Wild Card team could pose an unexpected challenge.
• Buffalo Bills (3) @ Kansas City Chiefs (2): A potential AFC Championship preview! This rematch of recent playoff contests promises to be a high-octane, strategic battle.
• Second Lowest Ranked Wild Card Winner @ New Orleans Saints (2): The Saints, a consistently solid team, will look to capitalize on any mistakes made by the Wild Card team. New Orleans' defense is a key strength.
• Miami Dolphins (4) @ Philadelphia Eagles (1): The Eagles, coming off a dominant regular season, will need to maintain their focus against a dangerous Dolphins offense.

Conference Championships and Super Bowl LXI

The Conference Championship games, on January 31st, will determine who advances to the Super Bowl. The AFC and NFC Championship games will air on CBS and Fox, respectively. Super Bowl LXI, scheduled for February 7th, 2026, promises to be a spectacle, with the culmination of the season's efforts culminating on CBS. The focus will be on the clash of the league's elite, and the entertainment value for viewers worldwide. Expect heavy media coverage and elaborate halftime performances.

Key Storylines to Watch

• Patrick Mahomes' Legacy: Can Mahomes lead the Chiefs to another Super Bowl title and further solidify his place among the NFL's all-time greats?
• The Rise of New Contenders: Will a team outside the usual suspects make a deep playoff run?
• Rookie Quarterback Performances: Several rookie quarterbacks are vying for a chance to prove themselves on the biggest stage. Their performance will be crucial to their team's success.
• Defensive Matchups: How will the league's top defenses contain the high-powered offenses? The key to victory often lies in controlling the line of scrimmage and applying consistent pressure.

This 2026 NFL playoff bracket is filled with compelling narratives and exciting matchups. As the playoffs unfold, fans can expect unexpected twists, dramatic moments, and ultimately, a memorable journey towards Super Bowl LXI.