NFL · 2 months ago

2026 NFL Playoffs: Predicting Every Divisional Round Game

Paul Connor

Host · Writer

Divisional Round Predictions
- Bills at Broncos (-1.5) | Prediction: Bills win 24–20
- Texans at Patriots (-3) | Prediction: Patriots win 23–17
- 49ers at Seahawks (-7) | Prediction: Seahawks win 27–13
- Rams (-3.5) at Bears | Prediction: Rams win 31–24
AFC: Buffalo Bills (6) at Denver Broncos (1)
Prediction: Bills win 24-20

This is the upset of the weekend. Despite the Broncos' home-field advantage and elite defense, the quarterback disparity is the deciding factor here. Josh Allen's extensive postseason experience gives Buffalo the edge over a Denver team led by Bo Nix, making only his second playoff start. Expect a tight defensive battle, with Allen making the crucial plays late in the fourth quarter.

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NFC: San Francisco 49ers (6) at Seattle Seahawks (1)
Prediction: Seahawks win 27-13

The 49ers are limping into this matchup, most notably missing star tight end George Kittle (Achilles). The Seahawks, fresh off a bye and riding a seven-game win streak, are simply the healthier and more complete team right now. Seattle’s defense will feast on a depleted San Francisco unit to secure a comfortable win.
NFC: Los Angeles Rams (5) at Chicago Bears (2)
Prediction: Rams win 31-24

While the Bears have had a magical season, the Rams enter Soldier Field with a significant advantage in experience. Matthew Stafford and Sean McVay have been here before; Caleb Williams has not. Look for the Rams' high-powered offense to overwhelm the Bears in a shootout.
Divisional Round Predictions
- Bills at Broncos (-1.5) | Prediction: Bills win 24–20
- Texans at Patriots (-3) | Prediction: Patriots win 23–17
- 49ers at Seahawks (-7) | Prediction: Seahawks win 27–13
- Rams (-3.5) at Bears | Prediction: Rams win 31–24
AFC: Buffalo Bills (6) at Denver Broncos (1)
Prediction: Bills win 24-20

This is the upset of the weekend. Despite the Broncos' home-field advantage and elite defense, the quarterback disparity is the deciding factor here. Josh Allen's extensive postseason experience gives Buffalo the edge over a Denver team led by Bo Nix, making only his second playoff start. Expect a tight defensive battle, with Allen making the crucial plays late in the fourth quarter.

Have all the intel you need? Free, actionable information is just one click away! Sign up for our daily newsletter, SportsGrid Daily.

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2026 NFL Playoffs: Predicting Every Divisional Round Game

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