Last Updated on January 19, 2026 9:30 am by Anthony Rome
Here’s a complete betting preview for NFL Championship Sunday — focusing on the AFC and NFC title games with updated teams, players, and odds. This preview doesn’t include picks, just the key info you’ll need for wagering and watching.
🔥 AFC Championship Game
Patriots @ Broncos
📅 Sunday, Jan. 25
🕒 3:00 p.m. ET
📺 CBS / Paramount+
Betting Odds (DraftKings / Covers):
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Spread: Patriots −5.5 (road favorites)
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Moneyline: Patriots around −250 / Broncos around +205–+220
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Total (O/U): 40.5 points
Why These Lines?
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New England enters as the favorite despite playing on the road — largely because Denver’s starting QB Bo Nix suffered a season-ending broken ankle in the divisional round. Backup Jarrett Stidham is expected to start with minimal playoff experience.
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The Patriots advanced with a convincing home win over the Texans in cold, snowy conditions, highlighted by multiple interceptions from New England’s defense.
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Denver won a dramatic overtime battle with the Bills to clinch the AFC title game, but the loss of Nix looms large for offensive expectations.
Team & Player Notes:
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Patriots (16-3): Led offensively by QB Drake Maye, with key weapons like Stefon Diggs, Kayshon Boutte, and DeMario Douglas contributing big plays in recent weeks.
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Broncos (15-3): Defense features strong pass rush numbers; offense will now lean on Stidham under center and ground production.
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Weather can be a factor at Empower Field at Mile High, typically favoring strong running attacks and defenses later in January.
Betting Angles to Watch:
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Denver as a home underdog in a conference championship is historically rare, making this line move noteworthy.
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Patriots have one of the best ATS records this season, especially away from home.
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Low total reflects strong defenses and potential conservative game scripts if Stidham limits risk.
🏈 NFC Championship Game
Rams @ Seahawks
📅 Sunday, Jan. 25
🕒 6:30 p.m. ET
📺 FOX / FOX Deportes
Betting Odds (DraftKings / Covers):
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Spread: Seahawks −2.5
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Moneyline: Seahawks around −140 to −155 / Rams around +110 to +130
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Total (O/U): 47.5 points
What to Know:
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Seattle returns to the NFC title game for the first time since the 2014 season after a dominant 41–6 playoff win over the 49ers.
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The Rams earned their spot with a thrilling overtime victory on the road in Chicago.
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This will be the third meeting between these division rivals this season, with each team having won one of the prior two matchups.
Team & Player Notes:
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Seahawks (15-3): Strong defensive presence and a balanced attack. Keep an eye on RB Zach Charbonnet, whose status is uncertain due to a knee issue.
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Rams (14-5): Coaching continuity and playoff experience, including postseason success this year on the road.
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NFC West rivals often produce rugged, physical games — this one should be no different.
Betting Angles to Watch:
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Seattle’s defense has been disciplined and efficient, which could keep totals in check despite offensive talent.
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Divisional rivalry dynamics and familiarity may lead to trickier game scripts and adjustments by both coaching staffs.
🧠 Quick Context & Super Bowl implications
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The Patriots and Seahawks are listed as the favorites to reach Super Bowl LX in early futures markets.
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A low total in the AFC matchup underscores conservative forecasting given Denver’s backup QB situation and strong defenses.
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In the NFC, a near-48-point total suggests expectations for a more up-tempo shootout or balanced offensive output.
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