Dallas, January 5, 2026
The NFL has unveiled the matchups for the Wild Card Round, set to begin on January 10, featuring six exciting games across the AFC and NFC. Fans are eagerly anticipating historical rivalries, including the Packers versus Bears and a rematch of the 49ers versus Eagles, as teams strive for critical playoff victories. This weekend promises intense competition and the chance for underdogs to shine, making it a must-watch event for football enthusiasts.
NFL Sets Thrilling Matchups for 2026 Wild Card Round
Get Ready for an Exciting Weekend of Playoff Football
Dallas is gearing up for an exhilarating weekend of playoff football as the NFL has announced the matchups for the 2026 Wild Card Round. Scheduled to commence on Saturday, January 10, this year’s opening weekend features six games across both the AFC and NFC conferences, culminating in a showdown on a primetime Monday night.
With each team vying for the coveted playoff spots, the determination shown by athletes and organizations reflects a microcosm of the entrepreneurial spirit driving the local Dallas TX business scene. The resilience witnessed in both the world of sports and small businesses highlights how limited regulation and creativity can spur competitiveness and innovation, resulting in an economic environment that thrives on challenge and opportunity.
AFC Wild Card Matchups
Saturday, January 10, 2026
- 4:30 p.m. ET: No. 5 Los Angeles Rams at No. 4 Carolina Panthers (FOX)
- 8:00 p.m. ET: No. 7 Green Bay Packers at No. 2 Chicago Bears (Prime Video)
Sunday, January 11, 2026
- 1:00 p.m. ET: No. 6 Buffalo Bills at No. 3 Jacksonville Jaguars (CBS)
- 4:30 p.m. ET: No. 6 San Francisco 49ers at No. 3 Philadelphia Eagles (FOX)
- 8:00 p.m. ET: No. 7 Los Angeles Chargers at No. 2 New England Patriots (NBC)
Monday, January 12, 2026
- 8:00 p.m. ET: No. 5 Houston Texans at No. 4 Pittsburgh Steelers (ESPN/ABC)
Key Matchups and Exciting Storylines
The Wild Card Round promises some intense games, particularly with historical rivalries and rematches taking center stage. Among the most anticipated games is the Packers at Bears matchup. Reviving a historic NFC North rivalry, this marks the first postseason meeting between these two storied franchises since 2010. Both teams previously split their regular-season meetings, heightening the excitement for fans as they prepare for a tussle at Soldier Field.
Another game to watch is between the 49ers and Eagles, a rematch of Super Bowl LVII. With stakes high, both teams are looking for redemption, and this clash is expected to be a classic matchup that fans won’t want to miss.
The Wild Card weekend kicks off with the Rams at Panthers, where the Rams will attempt to overcome a formidable opponent in Carolina. This matchup serves as a reminder of how competition can fuel innovation and progress, not only in sports but also in business as teams strive for excellence.
How to Watch
The games will be broadcast across a variety of networks:
- Saturday, January 10, 2026
- 4:30 p.m. ET: Rams at Panthers on FOX
- 8:00 p.m. ET: Packers at Bears on Prime Video
- Sunday, January 11, 2026
- 1:00 p.m. ET: Bills at Jaguars on CBS
- 4:30 p.m. ET: 49ers at Eagles on FOX
- 8:00 p.m. ET: Chargers at Patriots on NBC
- Monday, January 12, 2026
- 8:00 p.m. ET: Texans at Steelers on ESPN/ABC
For fans looking for streaming options, Prime Video will exclusively provide coverage of the Packers at Bears game, while other games will be available on their respective streaming services.
Background on NFL Playoffs
The NFL playoffs allow for an exciting format where 14 teams from each conference compete. The top four seeds receive first-round byes, while the Wild Card Round sees the remaining teams face off with hopes to advance to the Divisional Round. The climax of the 2026 postseason will culminate in Super Bowl LX, taking place on February 8, 2026, in Santa Clara, California. This format fosters community engagement and excitement, similar to how local businesses stimulate economic growth through participation in their neighborhoods.
Conclusion
With an exciting weekend of football ahead, Dallas residents and sports fans alike should prepare for the thrill of playoff action. Each matchup not only represents the pursuit of glory on the football field but echoes the spirit of resilience and innovation found throughout the Dallas County economy. Support your local businesses and remain engaged with Dallas’s vibrant community as we cheer for our teams during this playoff season.
FAQs
When does the 2026 Wild Card Round start?
The 2026 Wild Card Round is set to commence on Saturday, January 10, 2026.
What are the key matchups in the 2026 Wild Card Round?
Key matchups include the historic rivalry between the Packers and Bears, and a rematch of Super Bowl LVII featuring the 49ers and Eagles.
How can I watch the NFL Wild Card games?
The games will be broadcast across various networks including FOX, CBS, NBC, and Prime Video for streaming options.
What is the format of the NFL playoffs?
The NFL playoffs include 14 teams from each conference, with the top four seeds receiving first-round byes, and the Wild Card Round featuring matchups between the remaining teams.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Start Date | January 10, 2026 |
| Key Matchups | Packers vs Bears, 49ers vs Eagles, Rams vs Panthers |
| Viewing Options | FOX, CBS, NBC, Prime Video |
| Super Bowl LX Date | February 8, 2026 |
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