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Playoff Showdowns: Patriots, Broncos, Rams, Seahawks Face Off

1/15/2026

Center

Patriots Showcase Defense

The New England Patriots host the Houston Texans on January 18 to showcase their defense.
The Houston Texans are led by quarterback C.J. Stroud after a shaky wild-card win over the Steelers.
The Denver Broncos host the Buffalo Bills, seeking revenge after last year's playoff loss.
The Los Angeles Rams visit the Chicago Bears, who rallied to beat the Packers.
The Seattle Seahawks host the San Francisco 49ers.

Right

Bears' Resilient Comeback

The Chicago Bears, led by Ben Johnson (Chicago Bears head coach) and Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears quarterback), have built resilience after trailing in the final two minutes.
Their comeback against Green Bay Packers in Wild Card round featured 25 points in the fourth quarter.
In Divisional Round, the Los Angeles Rams must focus on disciplined defense to contain Williams' playmaking ability.
Special teams will be crucial, especially with inclement weather.

History

Historical Context

The 1982 NFL season was significantly impacted by a 57-day players' strike, reducing the schedule to nine games and prompting a unique 16-team playoff format. The Washington Redskins triumphed in Super Bowl XVII, defeating the Miami Dolphins 27-17. This season marked the first time teams with losing records, like the Cleveland Browns and Detroit Lions, qualified for the playoffs, reshaping future postseason dynamics.

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Patriots Showcase Defense

The New England Patriots host the Houston Texans on January 18 to showcase their defense.
The Houston Texans are led by quarterback C.J. Stroud after a shaky wild-card win over the Steelers.
The Denver Broncos host the Buffalo Bills, seeking revenge after last year's playoff loss.
The Los Angeles Rams visit the Chicago Bears, who rallied to beat the Packers.
The Seattle Seahawks host the San Francisco 49ers.

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