Early NFL Best Bets & Trends: Conference Championships (2026)
We’re down to four teams remaining in the NFL playoffs. That said, the Denver Broncos added a monster win over the Buffalo Bills last week, only to find out that Bo Nix needed season-ending surgery and is unable to finish out the playoffs. The Broncos will rely on veteran backup Jarrett Stidham, hoping to defeat the formidable New England Patriots at home.
I’ve got a best bet in that one, along with a bet in the Rams-Seahawks rivalry matchup.
Check out our early NFL best bets for the Conference Championships below.
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Early NFL Best Bets & Trends: Conference Championships
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
New England Patriots vs. Denver Broncos
The New England Patriots have allowed just 19 points in eight playoff quarters. Without Bo Nix, the Denver Broncos could really struggle on offense. Jarrett Stidham hasn’t started an NFL game in over two years. He’s a veteran with experience, but it’s hard to know just how good he can be. Of course, the Eagles won a Super Bowl behind Nick Foles, so anything is possible.
However, let’s not forget Troy Franklin and Pat Bryant are currently questionable. J.K. Dobbins could return from injured reserve (IR), but he might be rusty and likely won’t play many snaps.
New England’s secondary has played incredibly well this season. The pressure that the defensive line is getting is unmatched, too.
The Patriots could struggle to find an offensive rhythm in this one. The only way for the Broncos to have a shot is if the defense plays lights out. Instead of backing a team, let’s bet on the under.
Pick: Under 42.5 Points (-110)
Los Angeles Rams vs. Seattle Seahawks
The Rams and Seahawks have had some battles this season. Each team won a close game on its home field. Ultimately, Seattle’s the home team for this third and final matchup between these two teams.
Zach Charbonnet won’t be available for the Seahawks. He’s out with a knee injury and will miss the rest of the postseason. He and Kenneth Walker had become an excellent one-two punch, and a primary reason for Seattle’s continued offensive success.
In the last meeting, the Seahawks survived 38-37 at home in overtime. Charbonnet recorded just 3.6 yards per carry. Walker added 9.1 yards per carry. He’ll likely get a larger workload in this one.
Ultimately, both teams have looked outstanding defensively in most games. Neither team was good on defense in that last game. Sam Darnold added 270 yards passing with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Matthew Stafford threw for 457 yards and three touchdowns with zero interceptions or sacks, and the Rams still lost.
Using the numbers and analytics, the Rams outplayed the Seahawks in every way. It didn’t work out in Los Angeles’ favor in that one. But if the exact stats are put up this time around, the Rams will reach the Super Bowl with a road win. Take the Rams on the Moneyline.
Pick: Rams Moneyline (+130)