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Patriots Favored as NFL Championship Round Kicks Off

1/22/2026

25 3 Full Breakdown

Summary

Patriots Face Broncos

The 2026 NFL Championship Round features the New England Patriots against the Denver Broncos, and the Seattle Seahawks hosting the Los Angeles Rams.
The Patriots are favored by 5.5 points over the Broncos, who will start Jarrett Stidham at quarterback after Bo Nix's injury.
The AFC game begins at 3 p.m. ET.
The NFC game begins at 6:30 p.m. ET.
Betting insights favor the Under for both games.

Summary

Seahawks Host Rams

On January 25, 2026, the Seattle Seahawks host the Los Angeles Rams in the NFC Championship Game.
The Seattle Seahawks posted a league-best 41.3% DVOA.
Seattle is favored by 2.5 points after its 41-6 win over the 49ers.
Injuries include Seattle running back Zach Charbonnet (out), Los Angeles Rams linebacker Byron Young (questionable), and Los Angeles Rams quarterback Sam Darnold (oblique injury).

History

Historical Context

The 1970 merger of the NFL and AFL created a unified league, realigning teams into two conferences: the American Football Conference (AFC) and the National Football Conference (NFC). This merger established the Super Bowl and transformed American football into a cultural phenomenon, with millions tuning in annually. Teams like the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks exemplify the league's growth and enduring popularity.

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Patriots Face Broncos

The 2026 NFL Championship Round features the New England Patriots against the Denver Broncos, and the Seattle Seahawks hosting the Los Angeles Rams.
The Patriots are favored by 5.5 points over the Broncos, who will start Jarrett Stidham at quarterback after Bo Nix's injury.
The AFC game begins at 3 p.m. ET.
The NFC game begins at 6:30 p.m. ET.
Betting insights favor the Under for both games.

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