NFL playoffs viewing guide: Bills-Broncos, 49ers-Seahawks kick off divisional weekend
The Athletic offers live coverage of the Bills vs. Broncos (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/live-blogs/bills-vs-broncos-live-score-updates-nfl-playoffs-divisional-round-result/oO9eY86CceJQ/) and the 49ers vs. Seahawks (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/live-blogs/49ers-vs-seahawks-live-score-updates-nfl-playoffs-divisional-round-result/zAnLduj9U9v) in the NFL playoffs' divisional round.
Last Saturday's playoff games were intense, with the Rams-Panthers clash delivering a thrilling performance (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6960315/2026/01/10/rams-panthers-score-result-takeaways-nfl-wild-card/) and the Bears-Packers game showcasing key plays (https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6964486/2026/01/13/bears-packers-playoffs-key-plays/). This Saturday promises more excitement as top seeds return to their home stadiums.
The action begins with the Bills' Josh Allen facing the Broncos' formidable pass rush. The Bills, led by Allen, aim to secure their first road playoff win since 1992. Meanwhile, the 49ers and Seahawks, led by Christian McCaffrey and the league's top scoring defense, respectively, will battle for the third time this season.
Get your tickets for in-person viewing on StubHub (https://stubhub.prf.hn/click/camref:1101lvXI5).
Game Times and TV/Streaming:
- Bills at Broncos: 4:30 p.m. on CBS, also available on Fubo (https://www.fubo.tv/welcome/leagues/191277?irmp=5579095&irad=356362&sharedid=USAFootballNFLBuffalo-Bills-at-Denver-BroncosPtnrUSTAEditorialHTWArticles&utmsource=theathletic&utmmedium=Editorial&utmcampaign=htwarticles&utmcontent=USAFootballNFLBuffalo-Bills-at-Denver-BroncosPtnrUSTAEditorialHTW_Articles)
- 49ers at Seahawks: 8 p.m. on Fox, also available on Fubo (https://www.fubo.tv/welcome/leagues/191277?irmp=5579095&irad=356362&sharedid=USAFootballNFLSan-Francisco-49ers-at-Seattle-SeahawksPtnrUSTAEditorialHTWArticles&utmsource=theathletic&utmmedium=Editorial&utmcampaign=htwarticles&utmcontent=USAFootballNFLSan-Francisco-49ers-at-Seattle-SeahawksPtnrUSTAEditorialHTW_Articles)
Both CBS and Fox broadcasts are free over the air, with CBS also streaming on Paramount+ and Fox streaming on Fox One.
Bills at Broncos Preview:
The Bills, with a 13-5 record and the No. 6 seed, secured a successful trip to Duval, defeating the Jaguars 27-24. Josh Allen's heroics, including a go-ahead touchdown, and Cole Bishop's interception sealed the win. The Bills now face the high-altitude Broncos, where the cold weather might favor their leading rusher, James Cook.
Broncos' Dominance:
The Broncos, the AFC's top seed, boast an unprecedented line of scrimmage with a plus-45 sack differential, the best in NFL history. Their defense, led by Vance Joseph, presents a challenge for Josh Allen, who plays like a hybrid of a rocket launcher and a snowplow.
Broadcast and Key Players:
Jim Nantz and Tony Romo will call the action, with Tracy Wolfson reporting from the sidelines. Allen's stampedes will be a highlight, as Nantz famously exclaims, 'What an incredible effort! Indestructible!' The last meeting was in January 2025, with the Bills winning 31-27.
49ers at Seahawks Preview:
The 49ers, with a 13-5 record and the No. 6 seed, upset the defending champions last Sunday. Kyle Shanahan's team, despite injuries, held strong. Brock Purdy's touchdown pass to McCaffrey and Eric Kendricks' stop secured the road win.
Seahawks' Strengths:
The Seahawks, with a 14-3 record and the No. 1 seed, are a traditional title favorite. They led the league in points per game and points allowed, and their defense is second in net yards per dropback. Sam Darnold, despite an oblique injury, is expected to start, with Klint Kubiak's strategic plays opening space for him.
Broadcast and Key Players:
Kevin Burkhardt narrates, and Tom Brady provides analysis. Erin Andrews and Tom Rinaldi report from the field. The last meeting was in Week 18, with the Seahawks winning 13-3, securing the NFC West title and home-field advantage.
The NFL playoffs promise thrilling matchups, and The Athletic will provide comprehensive coverage of these divisional round games.
