NFL Conference Championships 2026: Patriots vs Broncos, Rams vs Seahawks Battle for Super Bowl LX Berths
The National Football League has narrowed down to its elite final four teams as the highly anticipated 2026 conference championship games prepare to determine who will compete in Super Bowl LX. This weekend promises electrifying, high-stakes football action with the New England Patriots clashing against the Denver Broncos in the American Football Conference (AFC) championship, while the Los Angeles Rams square off against the Seattle Seahawks in the National Football Conference (NFC) title game.
AFC Championship Game: New England Patriots vs Denver Broncos
The AFC championship showdown features the New England Patriots traveling to confront the Denver Broncos on Sunday, January 25, 2026, with kickoff scheduled for 3:00 PM Eastern Time. Notably, the game will be hosted at Empower Field at Mile High in Denver, Colorado, rather than the Patriots' home stadium, Gillette Stadium. This venue change is due to a significant Northeast winter storm forecast that has prompted logistical adjustments.
Live Streaming and Broadcast Details for Patriots vs Broncos:
- The matchup will be televised nationally on CBS.
- Streaming options include Paramount+, Fubo (which offers a free trial), Sling, NFL+, ESPN+, DirecTV, Hulu + Live TV, and YouTube TV.
NFC Championship Game: Los Angeles Rams vs Seattle Seahawks
Later on the same day, the NFC championship game pits the Los Angeles Rams against the Seattle Seahawks at 6:30 PM Eastern Time on Sunday, January 25, 2026. This contest will be held at Lumen Field in Seattle, Washington, granting the Seahawks a crucial home-field advantage that could influence the game's dynamics.
Live Streaming and Broadcast Details for Rams vs Seahawks:
- FOX will broadcast the game to a national audience.
- Viewers can stream it via Fubo, DirecTV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling, NFL+, ESPN+, and YouTube TV.
Key Storylines and Narratives to Monitor
Broncos' Backup Quarterback Drama: With starting quarterback Bo Nix sidelined due to injury, the performance of veteran backup Jarrett Stidham could define the Denver Broncos' entire season. The critical question is whether Stidham can deliver under immense pressure against the New England Patriots' formidable defense, or if the Patriots' playoff experience will prove overwhelming.
Patriots' Post-Tom Brady Resurgence: The New England Patriots have remarkably reached their first AFC Championship game since the legendary Tom Brady era concluded in 2018. Under the strategic guidance of head coach Mike Vrabel, this squad has quietly and effectively rebuilt into a legitimate contender, demonstrating that the franchise can thrive and excel even without its iconic quarterback.
Rams-Seahawks Intense Rivalry: After two tightly contested regular-season battles between these teams, this NFC championship match is widely expected to be an absolute thriller. Seattle's passionate home crowd at Lumen Field will add an extra layer of intensity, while the Los Angeles Rams aim to leverage their offensive firepower to secure a return to the Super Bowl stage.
Super Bowl LX 2026 Details and Implications
The four remaining teams—the New England Patriots, Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Rams, and Seattle Seahawks—are all fiercely eager to claim their coveted spot in Super Bowl 2026. The victors of these conference championship games will advance to Super Bowl LX, scheduled for Sunday, February 8, 2026, at 6:30 PM Eastern Time. The grand event will be hosted at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, setting the stage for an epic culmination of the NFL season.
