Championship Sunday: NFL Games This Weekend

Alex Johnson

Jan 24, 2026 • 3 min read

NFL players on the field during a championship game

Championship Sunday: The Road to the Super Bowl Begins

The NFL playoffs reach their peak this weekend with the highly anticipated Championship Sunday. Two thrilling games will determine who will face off in Super Bowl LX. The AFC Championship features the New England Patriots taking on the Denver Broncos, while the NFC Championship pits the Los Angeles Rams against the Seattle Seahawks. Fans are in for a treat as these intense matchups promise high stakes, bold plays, and unforgettable moments.

AFC Championship: Patriots vs. Broncos

A Clash of Titans in the AFC

The AFC Championship game pits the New England Patriots against the Denver Broncos. This matchup is a true clash of titans, with both teams showcasing exceptional talent and a burning desire to advance to the Super Bowl. The Patriots, led by quarterback Drake Maye, have demonstrated their offensive prowess throughout the playoffs. However, they will face a formidable challenge in the Broncos, who are relying on Jarrett Stidham under center.

Bold Predictions for Patriots vs. Broncos

Our analysts have made some bold predictions for this game. Maurice Jones-Drew predicts that Jarrett Stidham will outduel Drake Maye, throwing for 300 yards and three touchdowns to send the Broncos to the Super Bowl. This would be a remarkable performance, especially considering Stidham’s limited experience in real-game situations. On the other hand, Michael Florio predicts that the Patriots’ defense will shut out the Broncos, marking their best outing of the year. This would be a stunning defensive display, especially on the road.

The X-Factors

Several key players could be the difference-makers in this game. For the Patriots, Drake Maye’s ability to navigate the Broncos’ defense will be crucial. Despite some struggles in the playoffs, Maye has shown flashes of brilliance and could be the catalyst for a high-scoring affair. For the Broncos, Jarrett Stidham’s performance will be under the microscope. If he can rise to the occasion and lead his team to victory, the Broncos could pull off an upset. Additionally, the Patriots’ defense, led by head coach Mike Vrabel, will play a pivotal role. With six takeaways and nine sacks in two postseason games, this unit has been formidable and could be the key to a Patriots victory.

NFC Championship: Rams vs. Seahawks

A Rivalry Renewed in the NFC

The NFC Championship game features a renewed rivalry between the Los Angeles Rams and the Seattle Seahawks. These two teams have already met twice this season, with each game being a thrilling affair. The last meeting ended in overtime, and this game promises to be just as exciting. The Seahawks’ Jason Myers, who missed a 61-yard field goal in a previous game, will be looking to redeem himself and seal a victory for his team.

Bold Predictions for Rams vs. Seahawks

Our analysts have made some bold predictions for this game as well. Marc Ross predicts that the Seahawks’ kicker Jason Myers will redeem himself with a game-winning field goal in overtime. This would be a dramatic finish to an already intense game. Marcas Grant predicts that the Broncos will pull off an upset, with Stidham tasting revenge against the team that drafted him in 2019. In terms of offensive fireworks, Matt Okada predicts that both teams will record a play of at least 80 yards, with one of those plays deciding the game’s outcome.

The X-Factors

In this high-stakes game, several players could be the difference-makers. For the Seahawks, Rashid Shaheed’s explosive speed could be a game-changer. He has already demonstrated his ability to score big plays, including a 95-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in a previous game. If he can replicate that performance, the Seahawks could take an early lead. For the Rams, their defense will be crucial. They have struggled against deep passes and defending the out-wide receivers, so containing Shaheed and other deep threats will be essential. Additionally, the Rams’ ability to execute big plays on offense, particularly through receivers like Puka Nacua and Xavier Smith, could be the key to victory.

Looking Ahead to Super Bowl LX

Whichever teams emerge victorious on Championship Sunday will advance to Super Bowl LX, where they will compete for the ultimate prize in the NFL. The road to the Super Bowl has been a challenging one, but the teams that have persevered have shown their resilience and determination. Fans can expect an action-packed weekend of football, filled with unforgettable moments and thrilling performances. So, get ready to witness history in the making as the best teams in the NFL battle it out for a spot in the Super Bowl.

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