The 2026 NFL playoffs are shaping up to be a thrilling affair, with a stunning 16-year-old sensation setting the stage for an exciting divisional round. The NFC half of the bracket is taking form after a pair of wildcard results on Sunday, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the upcoming matchups.
The Los Angeles Rams and Chicago Bears emerged victorious in their respective wildcard games, showcasing their resilience and determination. The Rams, led by their star quarterback, prevailed over the formidable Carolina Panthers, despite a valiant effort from the NFC South underdogs. Meanwhile, the Bears pulled off an all-time playoff comeback, rallying from a 21-3 deficit to edge the Green Bay Packers.
This means Chicago, which hadn't won a playoff game in 16 years, will host a divisional round matchup against either the Rams or Eagles next week. The San Francisco 49ers, the lowest remaining NFC seed, will travel to Seattle if they beat the Eagles on Monday morning. If they succeed, the Rams will face the Bears in Chicago.
However, if the Eagles win at home, Philadelphia will head to Chicago, and the Rams will travel to division rivals Seattle as the lowest remaining seed. The AFC playoff action begins with Buffalo facing Jacksonville at 5 am AEDT on Monday, setting the stage for an intense showdown.
The NFL playoff schedule is as follows (AEDT):
Wild Card Round
Sunday, January 11:
- No. 5 Los Angeles Rams defeated No. 4 Carolina
- No. 2 Chicago defeated No. 7 Green Bay
Monday, January 12:
- No. 6 Buffalo at No. 3 Jacksonville @ 5 am
- No. 6 San Francisco at No. 3 Philadelphia @ 8.30 am
- No. 7 Los Angeles Chargers at No. 2 New England @ 12 pm
- No. 5 Houston at No. 4 Pittsburgh @ 12 pm
Divisional Round
- Sunday, January 18 to Monday, January 19:
- No. 1 Seattle to host game, opponent/date/time TBA
- No. 2 Chicago to host game, opponent/date/time TBA
- No. 1 Denver to host game, opponent/date/time TBA
Conference Championships
Monday, January 26
- Super Bowl LVII
Monday, February 9, Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California
