If you’re scrambling to find your remote because you forgot exactly what channel are the broncos playing on, don't sweat it. We’ve all been there. You have the snacks ready, the jersey is on, and suddenly you realize the NFL’s broadcast schedule is a complete maze. Between the move to streaming services and the rotating network slots for the playoffs, finding the Denver Broncos on your TV guide can feel like a part-time job.
Right now, the Broncos are in the middle of a massive postseason run. After clinching the AFC's top seed with an impressive 14-3 regular season record, Denver earned a much-needed first-round bye. That rest is over.
The Quick Answer: Where to Watch the Broncos This Week
The Denver Broncos are playing the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Divisional Round. This high-stakes matchup is happening this Saturday, January 17, 2026.
You can catch the game nationally on CBS.
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If you prefer the local Denver vibe, that means tuning into KCNC-TV (Channel 4). For the folks out there who have ditched cable for the digital world, the game is also streaming live on Paramount+. Kickoff is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. MT (4:30 p.m. ET). It’s the lead-off game for the Divisional weekend, so don’t be late or you'll miss the opening drive at Empower Field at Mile High.
Why This Specific Game Is Everywhere
It's a rematch. That’s the big story here. Last season, the Bills knocked the Broncos out in the Wild Card round with a brutal 31-7 win in the freezing rain of Orchard Park. This year? The tables have turned. Denver is the No. 1 seed, Bo Nix is playing like a seasoned vet, and the game is in the thin air of Mile High.
Because it’s a playoff game, you don’t have to worry about those annoying regional "blackout" maps that plague the regular season. If you have a basic antenna or a standard cable package, CBS is your destination.
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Streaming Options if You’re Away From a TV
Sometimes life happens. Maybe you're stuck at a wedding or working a shift. If you aren't sitting in front of a traditional television, you still have plenty of ways to see every snap.
- Paramount+: This is the most direct way since it's the CBS streaming home. You'll need at least the "Essential" plan to watch the live NFL feed.
- NFL+: You can watch on your phone or tablet, but keep in mind that the NFL+ app usually restricts you to mobile devices for live local and primetime games.
- YouTube TV & Fubo: These are the heavy hitters for cord-cutters. They carry CBS in almost every market. If you’re a new subscriber, you can usually snag a free trial just for the weekend.
- Hulu + Live TV: Another solid choice that includes your local CBS affiliate.
Radio and Audio Coverage
Kinda old school, right? But honestly, listening to the game on the radio is a vibe, especially if you're driving through the Rockies.
The legendary KOA 850 AM & 94.1 FM is the place to go. Dave Logan’s voice is practically the soundtrack of Denver sports. If you’re outside of Colorado, you can find the national broadcast on Westwood One Sports or through SiriusXM. They usually have dedicated team channels so you don't have to listen to the "other" guys' announcers.
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What Most People Get Wrong About the Schedule
A lot of fans assume that because a game was on Sunday all year, the playoffs follow the same rule. That’s a mistake. The NFL loves their Saturday doubleheaders in January. If you wait until Sunday afternoon to check what channel are the broncos playing on, you’re going to be looking at highlights instead of live action.
Another thing? The "home" network. During the regular season, AFC games are usually on CBS and NFC games are on FOX. In the playoffs, the league mixes it up to maximize ratings. However, for this specific Divisional matchup against Buffalo, CBS kept the rights.
Key Details for the Bills vs. Broncos Matchup
- Date: Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026
- Time: 2:30 p.m. MT / 4:30 p.m. ET
- Venue: Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, CO
- Weather Forecast: Typical January in Denver—highs in the 40s, dropping fast once the sun goes behind the stadium.
- Line: The Bills are actually slight favorites (-1.5) despite being the road team. Vegas clearly respects Josh Allen’s playoff experience.
Basically, the Broncos are looking for redemption. They’ve had 13 days of rest thanks to that bye week. Meanwhile, the Bills are coming off a physical win against the Jaguars. It’s the classic "rest vs. rust" debate that keeps sports analysts talking in circles for hours.
Actionable Steps for Game Day
Don't wait until 2:25 p.m. to figure this out. Tech glitches are real and they always happen at the worst time.
- Check your login: If you're using Paramount+ or a streaming service, sign in now. Update the app if it’s asking.
- Sync your audio: If you like listening to the KOA radio call while watching the TV, remember the TV is usually delayed by 10-30 seconds. You might need to pause your DVR to get them in sync.
- Set an alert: Use your phone to set a 15-minute warning. Pre-game coverage on CBS starts an hour early, but the actual ball-on-tee moment is right at 2:30 p.m. MT.
Knowing what channel are the broncos playing on is the first step to enjoying the most important Denver game in a decade. Get the channel locked in, keep the wings warm, and get ready for some January football at Mile High.