NFL Divisional Playoffs Preview

Last Updated on January 15, 2026 3:26 pm by Erwin Noguera

The NFL Divisional Round is set to deliver four high-stakes matchups as the 2025-26 postseason moves one step closer to Super Bowl LX.

This round features the top remaining seeds hosting wild-card winners in both the AFC and NFC.

The Divisional Round matchups feature an intriguing contrast: established franchises with veteran leadership and a history of stability will face teams that represent a new generation, boasting emerging talent and a determination to make their mark.

The Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks arrive well-rested after securing first place in their respective conferences, while the other six teams are coming off a grueling weekend and will try to capitalize on their competitive momentum. With that context in mind, it’s time to take a closer look at each divisional matchup.

At Gambyl Exchange, you can explore all NFL predictions, the final bets for this Matchday, and the odds for each match.

NFL Divisional Playoffs: Broncos vs. Bills

The stage is set for a clash between inspiration and competitive maturity. Buffalo comes into this game after defeating Jacksonville in a match where Josh Allen carried the team: he threw for over 270 yards, added rushing yards, and scored three touchdowns in total. His ability to take risks and execute under pressure was decisive in a victory that boosted team morale.

On the other side is Denver, which earned a bye week thanks to the best record in the American Conference. Sean Payton has managed to combine a roster full of young players with a precise and well-executed offensive playbook. Bo Nix, in his rookie season, has surprised with his maturity, system management, and decision-making. However, the big question surrounding the Broncos is the quality of their opponents during the regular season, something that several analysts have highlighted as a possible weakness.

The most recent matchup between the two teams favored Buffalo, which dominated with authority in the previous season, albeit under different conditions and playing at home. The challenge now is completely different: high altitude, cold weather, and a Denver defense that looks more disciplined. Allen’s inspiration and the Bills’ ability to attack and defend in transition keep them a dangerous opponent, especially without the immediate shadow of Mahomes, Burrow, or Lamar Jackson in the division.

Broncos vs. Bills Betting Pick: Broncos

NFL Divisional Playoffs: Seahawks vs. 49ers

Seattle returns to action after resting in the first round, a privilege earned thanks to a consistent and explosive offensive regular season. Sam Darnold has become a key part of the coach’s scheme, leading an offense that finished among the league’s most productive in points and passing yards. His accuracy and ability to find the middle ground have been instrumental in a season where he racked up over 4,000 yards and 25 touchdown passes.

San Francisco arrives with a special boost after eliminating the defending champions, Philadelphia. The victory was valuable, but it left an important casualty: tight end George Kittle, whose role is vital both in the passing game and in blocking for the ground attack. The good news is the return of Fred Warner, an indispensable defensive leader at the heart of the scheme. Despite a year marked by injuries, Kyle Shanahan has managed to maintain tactical cohesion and commit to an offense led by Brock Purdy and Christian McCaffrey.

The last meeting between the two teams favored Seattle in a close game where the defense shone. However, this matchup points to a different script: high tempo, points, offensive exchanges, and constant adjustments from the sideline. Logic favors the top seed, but the combination of a lucid afternoon from Purdy and a healthy Warner could make the 49ers an uncomfortable visitor.

Seahawks vs. 49ers Betting Pick: Seahawks

NFL Divisional Playoffs: Patriots vs. Texans

New England has regained the mystique of its glory days. Mike Vrabel found a way to adjust systems and instill confidence in Drake Maye, who plays with ease, vision, and efficiency. The team has a very distinct dual identity: an aggressive defense that applies constant pressure and an offense that ranks among the most productive in the league, averaging nearly 29 points per game. Fans can feel echoes of the past, albeit with a completely different feel.
Houston comes from the other side of the spectrum. The Texans were not intimidated in Pittsburgh and outplayed the Steelers with a smart defense, capable of stealing the ball and punishing mistakes. Their secondary has been one of the most opportunistic in the NFL, and rookie C.J. Stroud showed unexpected poise for his first postseason appearance. DeMeco Ryans prepared a game plan that neutralized inside routes and forced Pittsburgh to make uncomfortable decisions throughout the game.

The matchup offers many tactical angles: if Maye receives protection and can move freely, we will see an offensive exchange of blows. If the Texan defense manages to pressure and force mistakes, the chances of landing a blow increase significantly. However, home-field advantage in Foxborough and the momentum the Patriots are carrying give them a slight edge in the balance.

Patriots vs. Texans Betting Pick: Patriots

NFL Divisional Playoffs: Bears vs. Rams

The divisional round finale pits the most formidable offense of the year against a defense capable of generating turnovers, albeit inconsistently when it comes to containing points. Los Angeles arrives with Matthew Stafford in MVP mode, leading an extremely diversified attack that feeds off deep routes, intermediate crosses, and progressive field reading. With over 4,700 yards and 46 touchdown passes, Stafford has two elite primary targets: Davante Adams and Puka Nacua, complemented by perfect adjustments from the bench by Sean McVay.

Chicago is the reflection of a season full of contrasts. The Bears are capable of coming back from impossible games, but they have also allowed a high number of points, which complicates any strategic plan. The defense steals the ball frequently, but concedes too much in critical areas. On offense, Caleb Williams has established himself as the engine of a team that plays without fear and has regained part of its identity at just the right moment.

The Rams struggled more than expected against the Panthers in the previous round, but their collective experience ultimately made the difference. Chicago, meanwhile, broke Green Bay’s hegemony at the perfect moment and arrived with full confidence. The challenge will be to contain an LA offense that, if it gets into rhythm, can turn the game into a shootout that is difficult for any opponent to keep up with.

Bears vs. Rams Betting Pick: Rams