Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Broncos Eye AFC Top Seed as Playoff Races Heat Up

1/1/2026

39 8 Full Breakdown

Center

Broncos Aim for No. 1

The Denver Broncos can clinch the American Football Conference (AFC) No. 1 seed with a win over the Los Angeles Chargers, who will rest Justin Herbert.
Jacksonville Jaguars seek the AFC South title against Tennessee Titans.
In the National Football Conference (NFC) in 2025, Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers vie for the No. 1 seed.
Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers clash in a win-and-in for the AFC North.

Left

Purdy Powers 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers defeated the Chicago Bears 42-38, showcasing both teams' playoff potential.
Brock Purdy threw five touchdowns, including the game-winning pass to Jauan Jennings.
The Bears' Caleb Williams had 330 passing yards and two touchdowns but failed on the final drive.
The Carolina Panthers can clinch the NFC South with a win over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, while the Atlanta Falcons could force a three-way division tie.

History

Historical Context

The NFL and the American Football League merged in 1970, forming a unified league that established the American Football Conference (AFC) and the National Football Conference (NFC). This merger intensified playoff competition, allowing teams like the Denver Broncos and San Francisco 49ers to compete for titles. Today, teams such as the Jaguars and Ravens continue to navigate this legacy, vying for crucial playoff positions.

1 of 3

Broncos Aim for No. 1

The Denver Broncos can clinch the American Football Conference (AFC) No. 1 seed with a win over the Los Angeles Chargers, who will rest Justin Herbert.
Jacksonville Jaguars seek the AFC South title against Tennessee Titans.
In the National Football Conference (NFC) in 2025, Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers vie for the No. 1 seed.
Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers clash in a win-and-in for the AFC North.

1 / 3