Playoff Clash

Patriots and Rams advance in the playoffs

Drake Maye / Bo Nix / C.J. Stroud / Caleb Williams / Matthew Stafford /

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Last Updated

2/1/2026

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The Breakdown 99

The New England Patriots triumphed over the Houston Texans 28-16 in the AFC Divisional Round, propelled by an impressive performance from quarterback Drake Maye, who threw three touchdown passes and led his team to the AFC Championship for the first time in seven years.
The Patriots' defense showcased its strength, with Marcus Jones returning one of C.J. Stroud's four interceptions for a touchdown, underlining Stroud's struggles throughout the game.
In a thrilling overtime showdown, the Denver Broncos edged out the Buffalo Bills 33-30, but not without a heavy price, as quarterback Bo Nix suffered a broken ankle, sidelining him for the remainder of the playoffs.
Jarrett Stidham will step in as the Broncos' starting quarterback for the AFC Championship, marking a critical transition for the team facing the Patriots.
On the NFC side, the Los Angeles Rams secured their own dramatic 20-17 overtime victory against the Chicago Bears, overcoming three interceptions thrown by Bears’ quarterback Caleb Williams.
With the playoff landscape set, the clash of the Patriots and Broncos in the AFC Championship and the Rams facing the Seattle Seahawks in the NFC title game promises to deliver high-stakes excitement and fierce competition ahead.

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