NFL Playoffs: The Last Teams Standing

Only four teams remain in the NFL playoffs, and each is guided by players who were instrumental last weekend and will significantly influence the upcoming games. Here’s a closer examination of who’s who as we approach Championship Sunday—and the journey that brought them here.

New England Patriots: Defense Leads the Way

The New England Patriots have advanced thanks to their formidable defense. In their matchup against Houston, New England executed turnovers, applied relentless pressure on the quarterback throughout the game, and established early dominance. Breakout quarterback Drake Maye exhibited remarkable poise, skillfully distributing the ball and throwing three touchdown passes without incurring any errors.

Wide receiver Stefon Diggs proved to be a dependable target in pivotal moments, leveraging his precise route running and experience to gain crucial first downs and secure an important touchdown.

Veteran running back Rhamondre Stevenson played a vital role in sealing the game by grinding out tough yards in the latter stages, but the real narrative revolved around the defense. Key interceptions and consistent pressure thwarted the Texans’ nine-game winning streak and propelled the Patriots back to the AFC Championship Game.

Denver Broncos: Broken But Not Beaten

The Denver Broncos managed to survive the most chaotic game of the weekend. Bo Nix, another promising young quarterback, executed critical throws, including a late touchdown that kept Denver in contention, while kicker Wil Lutz displayed composure in high-pressure situations throughout the game.

Wide receiver Courtland Sutton contributed significantly by securing contested catches, providing Denver with a formidable physical presence on the perimeter.

Denver’s defense rose to the occasion when it mattered most, generating turnovers and clinching the game with an interception during overtime. However, with Bo Nix sidelined due to injury for the remainder of the playoffs, the Broncos must demonstrate their ability to secure victories through a robust defensive effort, which is often essential in playoff football.

Seattle Seahawks: Speed, Power, and Control

No team appeared more commanding than the Seattle Seahawks. Seattle seized control right from the outset with a kickoff return touchdown and never allowed San Francisco to regain their footing.

Wide receiver Jaxson Smith-Njigba adeptly exploited gaps in the defense, just as he has done all season, converting short receptions into substantial gains and scoring early to help Seattle gain momentum.

Running back Kenneth Walker III energized the offense with three rushing touchdowns, while quarterback Sam Darnold maintained a clean, error-free performance. On the defensive side, Seattle generated fumbles and sacks that kept the game firmly out of reach by halftime. The Seahawks not only won; they made a resounding statement.

Los Angeles Rams: Built for Tight Games

The Los Angeles Rams demonstrated the importance of experience during the playoffs in January. Quarterback Matthew Stafford remained patient, sidestepped major errors, and relied on his running game.

Star wide receivers Puka Nacua and Davante Adams excelled at making difficult catches all over the field and played a crucial role in sustaining drives during critical moments, particularly late in the game.

Running back Kyren Williams did his part by scoring twice and managing the game's tempo. The Rams found themselves pushed into overtime after Chicago equalized late in regulation, but their composure shone through. A methodical drive culminated in a walk-off field goal that sealed the victory and kept their Super Bowl aspirations alive.

NFL Conference Championships — Sunday, January 25, 2026

AFC Championship: Patriots at Broncos — 3:00 p.m. ET NFC Championship: Rams at Seahawks — 6:30 p.m. ET

Two exciting games. Four teams. Countless stars. The victors will advance to Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium, where the spotlight will shine brighter than ever.