If you’re sitting on your couch wondering why your DVR is looking a little thin, don't worry. Saturday nights in mid-January are usually a weird mix of high-stakes sports and "guilty pleasure" movies, and today—Saturday, January 17, 2026—is no different. Between a massive NFL divisional showdown and some oddly specific Lifetime dramas, there’s actually a lot to chew on.
Honestly, the biggest thing on the radar for most people is the football game, but if you aren't into sports, the streaming world just dropped some heavy hitters yesterday that are perfect for a Saturday binge.
The Big Game: Seahawks vs. 49ers
If you have a pulse and a TV, you probably know the NFL Divisional Round is happening. Tonight at 8 p.m. ET on FOX, the Seattle Seahawks are hosting the San Francisco 49ers at Lumen Field.
✨ Don't miss: Why La Mera Mera Radio is Actually Dominating Local Airwaves Right Now
This isn't just another game. The Seahawks have been absolute monsters on defense this year, allowing only about 17 points per game. On the flip side, the 49ers' offense is seventh-ranked in the league. It’s basically an unstoppable force meeting an immovable object. If you’re a cord-cutter, you can catch this on the FOX Sports app or FOX One.
What’s New on TV Today: Saturday’s Scripted Picks
Saturday nights are famously the home of the "original movie" marathon. If you’re looking for drama that involves more than just a yellow flag on a field, here is what’s hitting the airwaves tonight:
🔗 Read more: Why Love Island Season 7 Episode 23 Still Feels Like a Fever Dream
- I Am Mary Jo Buttafuoco (Lifetime, 8 p.m. ET): Lifetime is back with its "true-life" dramatizations. This one dives deep into the tabloid scandal that gripped the 90s, focusing on Mary Jo’s perspective. It’s exactly the kind of gritty, slightly over-the-top drama you’d expect.
- Love on the Amazon (Hallmark, 8 p.m. ET): If you want the opposite of a gritty scandal, Hallmark is taking us to the jungle. Expect lush scenery, a very clean-cut explorer, and a romance that definitely won't involve any actual dangerous wildlife.
- Iyanla: The Inside Fix (OWN, 8 p.m. ET): Iyanla Vanzant is back on OWN with a new reality series. It’s focused on deep-dive "fixes" for people facing unique life hurdles.
The Binge-Watch Backup Plan
Let’s say none of that sounds good. Luckily, yesterday (Friday the 16th) was a massive release day for streamers. You've basically got a fresh library ready to go for today.
The Rip (Netflix) is the one everyone is texting about. It stars Ben Affleck and Matt Damon as Miami narcotics cops. They find a stash house with millions of dollars instead of the $300k they expected. It’s directed by Joe Carnahan, so expect a lot of shouting and very fast editing.
💡 You might also like: When Was Kai Cenat Born? What You Didn't Know About His Early Life
Over on Paramount+, Star Trek: Starfleet Academy just premiered its first two episodes. It’s a bit of a departure for Trek—kinda like Degrassi but in space. Holly Hunter plays the captain, and honestly, she’s the best part of the show so far. It’s smart, a little teen-angsty, but definitely worth a look if you’re a fan of the franchise.
Tomorrow’s Early Warning
Don't get too comfortable, because tomorrow, Sunday the 18th, is arguably the biggest TV day of the month. HBO is finally dropping A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms. This is the new Game of Thrones prequel based on the Dunk and Egg stories. It’s only six episodes, and it’s supposed to be way more lighthearted than House of the Dragon.
Also, Tracy Morgan has a new show on NBC tomorrow night called The Fall and Rise of Reggie Dinkins, produced by Tina Fey. It’s airing right after the NFL coverage, so keep your remote handy.
Actionable TV Tips for Today
- Check your local listings for FOX: If the afternoon game runs long, the Seahawks/49ers kickoff might get pushed by a few minutes.
- Download the episodes now: If you're planning to watch Star Trek: Starfleet Academy or The Rip later tonight, download them to your tablet now to avoid any Saturday night streaming lag.
- Set a reminder for HBO: If you want to see the new Westeros series tomorrow, make sure your Max subscription is active and updated.
Whether you're rooting for a touchdown or just want to see Ben and Matt argue in Miami, the lineup for whats new on tv today has you covered. Just make sure you have enough snacks for the four-hour football haul.