The energy tonight is different. It's that mid-January chill where every breath looks like smoke and every play could be the last one of the season. If you’re looking for who's playing tonight on nfl football, you’ve found the right spot. We aren't just talking about regular games here. This is the Divisional Round. The "Elite Eight" of the NFL.
Today is Saturday, January 17, 2026.
By the time you finish reading this, one team might already be celebrating a trip to the AFC Championship, while another is staring down a long, quiet flight home. We have a double-header that splits the country between the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Northwest.
The AFC Opener: Buffalo Bills vs. Denver Broncos
First up, we have a heavyweight clash at Empower Field at Mile High. The Buffalo Bills are taking on the top-seeded Denver Broncos.
Kickoff is set for 4:30 p.m. ET.
You can catch this one on CBS or stream it through Paramount+. Honestly, this game is a fascinating study in contrasts. You have Josh Allen, a man who plays football like a human wrecking ball, going into the altitude of Denver. Bo Nix has been the story of the year for the Broncos, leading them to the #1 seed in the AFC.
The Broncos are coming off a bye week. They’re rested. They’re healthy. Buffalo, on the other hand, had to scrap their way through a 27-24 win against the Jaguars last week.
Why this game matters
- The Altitude Factor: Denver’s home-field advantage isn't a myth. The air is thinner. Players gas out faster. If Buffalo can’t establish a run game early, Allen might find himself forced into those high-risk throws that usually lead to either a 60-yard touchdown or a heartbreaking interception.
- Bo Nix vs. The Pressure: It’s his first home playoff game as a starter. The lights don't get much brighter than the Divisional Round.
The Nightcap: San Francisco 49ers vs. Seattle Seahawks
Once the sun goes down, the action shifts to the coast. This is the one everyone has circled. An NFC West rivalry with everything on the line.
The San Francisco 49ers travel to face the Seattle Seahawks.
Start time is 8:00 p.m. ET.
Tune into FOX for this one, or use the FOX Sports app.
Seattle is the #1 seed in the NFC for a reason. They have been a machine lately, winning seven straight games heading into this weekend. They are currently 7-point favorites, which feels a bit high for a rivalry game, but they’ve earned the respect. Sam Darnold—yes, that Sam Darnold—has resurrected his career in Seattle and looks like a legitimate postseason threat.
The 49ers' Uphill Battle
San Francisco is the #6 seed. They had to travel to Philadelphia last week and grind out a 23-19 win. They are bruised. They are tired. But they are also the 49ers. Brock Purdy knows this Seahawks defense better than anyone.
Historically, San Francisco has held the edge lately, winning three of the last five meetings. But Lumen Field in January is a nightmare for visiting quarterbacks. The "12th Man" is going to be deafening tonight.
Key Matchup to Watch
Keep your eyes on Kenneth Walker III. He’s been on a tear, and if he starts finding gaps in that 49ers front seven, it’s going to be a long night for Kyle Shanahan. Seattle's offense is currently ranking 7th in the league, but their defense is the real story, allowing fewer than 290 yards per game.
👉 See also: WrestleMania 41 Start Time: What Most Fans Get Wrong About The Las Vegas Schedule
How to Watch and Stream
If you're trying to figure out your setup for the night, here is the basic breakdown of where to find the games.
- Bills at Broncos (4:30 PM ET): CBS / Paramount+ / NFL+
- 49ers at Seahawks (8:00 PM ET): FOX / FOX One / FOX Sports App
For those of you without cable, YouTube TV, FuboTV, and Hulu + Live TV all carry these channels. If you are outside the US, NFL Game Pass International is your best bet to keep up with the action.
What’s Next After Tonight?
The winners of these two games will move on to the Conference Championships scheduled for Sunday, January 25.
If the Broncos win, they’ll host the winner of tomorrow’s Texans vs. Patriots game. If Seattle holds serve at home, they will await the winner of the Rams vs. Bears matchup.
Actionable Insights for Tonight:
- Check the Weather: Denver is looking cold but clear. Seattle is always a threat for rain, which could turn that 8:00 p.m. game into a messy, defensive struggle.
- Injury Report: Keep an eye on the "Active" list 90 minutes before kickoff. Sam Darnold has been dealing with an oblique issue, though he is expected to play.
- Prop Bets: If you’re into the betting side of things, look at the "Over" for Kenneth Walker’s rushing yards. He's been hitting career highs lately.
The road to Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara goes through these four teams tonight. Make sure your snacks are ready and your phone is charged—this is the best weekend of the football calendar.