NFL Divisional Round: Patriots Rooting Guide and Game Predictions (2026)

The NFL's 2025 season has reached its divisional round, and the New England Patriots are in the mix, aiming to break their divisional round curse. But here's the dilemma: should fans root for their rivals?

This Sunday, the Patriots host the Houston Texans, seeking to progress beyond the divisional round for the first time in seven years. While this game is the primary focus, three other matchups on Saturday and Sunday also warrant attention.

Saturday's Games:

  • 4:30 p.m. ET: Buffalo Bills (6) vs. Denver Broncos (1). Should Patriots fans root for the Bills, despite their recent loss to them? The answer might surprise you. It's a choice between a potential AFC Championship at home or in Denver. Most fans prefer the former, but some argue for the latter, favoring a weaker opponent. | CBS, Paramount+

  • 8 p.m. ET: San Francisco 49ers (6) vs. Seattle Seahawks (1). Go Seahawks! The Patriots have a vested interest in the 49ers' early exit, as they own their sixth-round draft pick. | FOX, FOX One, FOX Deportes

Sunday's Game:

  • 6:30 p.m. ET: Los Angeles Rams (5) vs. Chicago Bears (2). Similar to the 49ers, the Patriots own the Bears' third-round draft pick, so an early Bears exit is beneficial. | NBC, Peacock, Telemundo, Universo

And this is the part most fans debate: should you ever root for your rivals? It's a controversial topic, especially when it could impact your team's future. Share your thoughts in the comments below, and let's discuss the games as they unfold this weekend!

NFL Divisional Round: Patriots Rooting Guide and Game Predictions (2026)

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