NFL Divisional Round Games Recap – Saturday, January 17, 2026 | Full Playoff Breakdown
Saturday delivered high drama, defining moments, and season-altering outcomes as the NFL Divisional Round kicked off with two decisive games. From an overtime thriller in Denver to a primetime rout in Seattle, the road to Super Bowl glory became clearer—and more intense.
Key-points At-a-Glance Highlights
Broncos survive a Bills comeback in overtime but lose quarterback Bo Nix to a season-ending injury
Seahawks dominate wire-to-wire, crushing the 49ers in the most lopsided playoff game of the weekend
Two No. 1 seeds advance, setting up blockbuster AFC and NFC Championship matchups
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Introduction
The NFL Divisional Round on Saturday, January 17, 2026, showcased everything playoff football promises: resilience under pressure, unexpected heroes, and pivotal injuries that reshape championship hopes. With only two games on the slate and two more looming on Sunday, Saturday’s action set the tone for a dramatic finish to the weekend. The Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks, both top seeds, punched their tickets to their respective conference championship games—but each victory came with its own story.
Broncos Outlast Bills in Overtime Thriller, but Lose Bo Nix
The Denver Broncos earned their biggest postseason win in a decade, edging the Buffalo Bills 33–30 in overtime at home. The victory secured Denver a spot in the AFC Championship Game, but celebrations were tempered by devastating news shortly after the final whistle.
Second-year quarterback Bo Nix, who guided Denver to the AFC’s top seed and his first career playoff win, suffered a broken right ankle late in the game. According to head coach Sean Payton, Nix will undergo season-ending surgery, forcing the Broncos to turn to backup Jarrett Stidham for the remainder of their playoff run.
Before the injury revelation, the game itself was a showcase of grit and momentum swings. Denver built early control with a flurry of takeaways, finishing with five turnovers forced, including a crucial overtime interception by Ja’Quan McMillian at the Broncos’ 20-yard line. Officials ruled McMillian completed the catch process, a decision Bills receiver Brandin Cooks disputed after the game.
Nix played through the injury long enough to deliver a key deep pass that drew a 30-yard pass interference penalty, setting up Wil Lutz’s 23-yard game-winning field goal. Earlier, Nix had thrown a late touchdown to Marvin Mims Jr., while former Broncos kicker Matt Prater forced overtime with a 50-yard field goal for Buffalo.
Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen, who entered the game with a clean playoff turnover record, endured a rare collapse with four turnovers, later admitting he felt he had let his teammates down. Despite a spirited fourth-quarter comeback, the Bills were once again left short of a Super Bowl appearance.
Denver now prepares to host its first AFC Championship Game in ten years, leaning on depth, defense, and belief as it adapts to life without its star quarterback.
Seahawks Dominate 49ers, Advance with Statement Win
If Denver’s win was about survival, Seattle’s 41–6 dismantling of the San Francisco 49ers was about dominance from the opening seconds.
The tone was set immediately when Rashid Shaheed returned the opening kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown, marking one of the longest and fastest-opening scores in playoff history. The Seahawks never looked back, overwhelming the 49ers on both sides of the ball.
Quarterback Sam Darnold, playing through an oblique injury, earned his first career playoff victory with an efficient performance, completing 12 of 17 passes and throwing a touchdown to Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Seattle’s offense leaned heavily on Kenneth Walker III, who rushed for 116 yards and three touchdowns, tying a franchise playoff record.
Defensively, Seattle’s so-called “Dark Side” unit suffocated San Francisco. The Seahawks forced three turnovers, sacked Brock Purdy twice, and consistently disrupted plays at the line of scrimmage. Purdy finished with modest numbers and was under constant pressure, scrambling frequently due to injuries along San Francisco’s offensive line.
The 49ers entered the game shorthanded, missing George Kittle, Fred Warner, and Nick Bosa, while playing through additional in-game injuries. According to veteran lineman Trent Williams, expectations had to be tempered given the roster limitations. Still, the loss marked one of the most lopsided playoff defeats in franchise history.
Seattle now stands one win away from its first Super Bowl appearance in 11 years, energized by a home crowd and a complete team performance.
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What’s Next: Championship Weekend Awaits
With Saturday’s results finalized, the Broncos await the winner of Patriots vs. Texans in the AFC, while the Seahawks will host either the Bears or Rams in the NFC Championship Game. Sunday’s matchups will complete the picture, but Saturday already proved that momentum, health, and execution will define who reaches the Super Bowl.
Conclusion: Playoff Football at Its Purest
Saturday’s Divisional Round games reminded fans why the NFL playoffs captivate millions. Denver’s triumph showcased resilience in the face of adversity, while Seattle’s performance embodied preparation meeting opportunity. As the league marches toward Championship Sunday, these victories underscore a simple truth: in January football, every snap can change a season—and every team left standing believes its moment has arrived.
Key Points Summary
Broncos defeat Bills 33–30 in overtime but lose QB Bo Nix to a season-ending injury
Seahawks crush 49ers 41–6 in a dominant, injury-impacted matchup
Both No. 1 seeds advance and will host conference championship games
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which teams won on Saturday, January 17, 2026?
The Denver Broncos and Seattle Seahawks both won their Divisional Round games.
Why is Bo Nix out for the season?
Nix suffered a broken right ankle late in the Broncos’ overtime win and will require surgery.
Who will the Seahawks face in the NFC Championship Game?
Seattle will host either the Chicago Bears or Los Angeles Rams.
How decisive was Seattle’s win over San Francisco?
The Seahawks led from the opening kickoff and won by 35 points, one of the largest playoff margins in franchise history.
How many games are left before the Super Bowl?
Two Divisional Round games on Sunday and two Conference Championship games remain.
Sources
CBS Sports – Broncos vs. Bills Divisional Round game recap
https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/gametracker/recap/NFL_20260117_BUF@DEN/CBS Sports – Seahawks vs. 49ers Divisional Round game recap
https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/gametracker/recap/NFL_20260117_SF@SEA/
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