AFC, NFC Championship Playoff Predictions: Schedule and Betting Odds
The NFL playoff conference championships are set to deliver exciting matchups as the 2025 season reaches its climax. The AFC Championship Game features the New England Patriots facing the Denver Broncos. In the NFC Championship Game, the Los Angeles Rams will battle the Seattle Seahawks for a coveted spot in the Super Bowl.
AFC Championship Preview: Patriots vs. Broncos
The AFC Championship will kick off at 3 p.m. ET on CBS/Paramount+. The Patriots enter the game favored by 5.5 points, with an over/under set at 42.5. New England’s quarterback, Drake Maye, is on a quest to secure his first road playoff victory. However, he has struggled with ball security, fumbling six times in two playoff games.
Insights on the Patriots
- Linebacker Robert Spillane notes the unique challenges presented by Denver’s offense.
- The Patriots have allowed only one touchdown in their past two playoff games.
Insights on the Broncos
- With quarterback Bo Nix sidelined due to an ankle injury, Jarrett Stidham will start.
- This marks Stidham’s first start of the season in the conference championship, a feat not seen since 1972.
Denver’s defense, which allows 5.8 yards per carry on duo runs, faces a challenge against New England, who employs this strategy 32% of the time. This discrepancy will be critical to watch.
NFC Championship Preview: Rams vs. Seahawks
The NFC championship is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. ET on Fox, with the Seahawks favored by 2.5 points and an over/under of 47.5. Both teams displayed remarkable offensive performances during the regular season, with their matchups being closely contested.
Insights on the Rams
- The Rams are aiming for a third consecutive road playoff victory, an unprecedented feat in their franchise history.
- Receiver Davante Adams emphasizes the team’s ability to bond and overcome challenges on the road.
Insights on the Seahawks
- Seattle’s defense presents a formidable challenge, allowing only 4.7 air yards per attempt.
- Coach Mike Macdonald praises the Rams’ competitive spirit and talent.
Running back Kenneth Walker III is key for Seattle after Zach Charbonnet’s injury. He is expected to excel, having shown impressive performance recently.
Betting Insights and Predictions
Betting analyst Pam Maldonado has identified intriguing bets for both games:
- AFC Championship: Broncos +4.5 could be a strong defensive wager as both teams fight for scoring opportunities.
- NFC Championship: The over 46.5 offers potential with both offenses expected to generate high-scoring drives.
Analysts have provided varied predictions, with the Football Power Index favoring New England at 59.1% and Seattle at 53.9%. Each game promises intense action as teams vie for a chance to reach the Super Bowl.
