Divisional Round Preview: Eight Teams, Four Battles, One Road to Super Bowl LX

After an intense and unpredictable , the NFL playoffs have reached their most decisive stage. Only eight teams remain, and the road to Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara is now narrower than ever.

This weekend, January 17–18, football fans will witness four blockbuster matchups as the league’s best collide with championship aspirations on the line.

Here is your complete preview of the NFL Divisional Round.

1. High Stakes at Mile High

Buffalo Bills vs. Denver Broncos

When: Saturday, January 17 | 4:30 PM ET

Where:

The Storyline:

Denver enters the Divisional Round well-rested after earning a bye, armed with one of the league’s toughest home-field advantages. Playing at high altitude in January has historically been a nightmare for visiting teams.

The Buffalo Bills, however, arrive in peak form after a convincing Wild Card performance. Known for their explosive offense and playoff experience, Buffalo will look to control the tempo early and quiet the Denver crowd. This matchup could come down to discipline, conditioning, and execution under pressure.

2. NFC West Rivalry Under the Lights

San Francisco 49ers vs. Seattle Seahawks

When: Saturday, January 17 | 8:00 PM ET

Where:

The Storyline:

Few rivalries in the NFL are as physical and emotional as 49ers–Seahawks. Seattle’s home crowd provides one of the loudest and most hostile environments in football, especially in prime time.

San Francisco enters battle-tested after surviving the Wild Card round, relying on a balanced offense and an aggressive pass rush. Seattle’s defensive unit has been sharp late in the season, making this a classic chess match where field position, turnovers, and coaching decisions could decide everything.

3. Rising Contenders vs. Proven Winners

Houston Texans vs. New England Patriots

When: Sunday, January 18 | 3:00 PM ET

Where:

The Storyline:

Houston has emerged as one of the league’s biggest surprises, riding momentum from a dominant Wild Card victory. Their speed and confidence make them a dangerous opponent.

Standing in their path are the New England Patriots, a franchise synonymous with playoff football. At home in Foxborough, New England thrives on preparation, defensive discipline, and situational mastery. This game represents a true clash between youthful momentum and postseason experience.

4. Cold-Weather Football in Chicago

Los Angeles Rams vs. Chicago Bears

When: Sunday, January 18 | 6:30 PM ET

Where:

The Storyline:

January football at Soldier Field is never forgiving. Cold temperatures and wind often turn games into physical, grind-it-out battles.

The Rams arrive after a hard-fought Wild Card win and must now adapt quickly to outdoor playoff conditions. Chicago, meanwhile, has leaned on a turnover-hungry defense and physical play to exceed expectations this season. This matchup is likely to be decided in the trenches, where toughness and ball security will be paramount.

Conclusion

Four games. Eight teams. Every snap matters.

The Divisional Round is where Super Bowl dreams either gain momentum or come to an abrupt end. Expect intensity, strategy, and moments that will be replayed for years to come.

Stay connected with All-Star Pulse for live updates, in-depth analysis, and postgame reactions from around the league as the march toward Super Bowl LX continues.