Introduction to NFL Wildcard Playoffs 2026
The journey to Super Bowl LX starts this weekend as several contenders battle to inch a step closer to capturing football’s ultimate prize.
FILE-Bryce Young #9 of the Carolina Panthers passes the ball during the first half of an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams at Bank of America Stadium on November 30, 2025 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by David Jensen/Getty Images)
A few perennial playoff participants we’re accustomed to seeing contend in January were eliminated from the postseason, making way for some of the league’s young and talented quarterbacks to get their chance to perform on the biggest stage as they lead their respective teams in the opening round.
This weekend’s NFL Wildcard matchups are intriguing and feature evenly matched teams capable of making a deep run in the tournament.
Here’s a look at the NFL Wildcard playoff schedule and how to stream NFL games on FOX.
NFL Wildcard Game Schedule & Networks
Saturday, Jan. 10
- Los Angeles Rams at Carolina Panthers: 4:30 p.m. ET (FOX)
- Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears: 8 p.m. ET (Amazon)
Sunday, Jan. 11
- Buffalo Bills at Jacksonville Jaguars: 1 p.m. ET (CBS)
- San Francisco 49ers at Philadelphia Eagles: 4:30 p.m. ET (FOX)
- Los Angeles Chargers at New England Patriots: 8 p.m. ET (NBC)
Monday, Jan. 12
- Houston Texans at Pittsburgh Steelers: 8:15 p.m. ET (ESPN)
How to Watch the NFL on FOX
NFL games on FOX can be streamed on FOXSports.com, the FOX Sports App or FOX One.
You can use an over-the-air antenna to pick up your local station’s broadcast for free, or watch NFL games through any number of partner providers, such as cable companies, satellite TV packages, or subscription streaming platforms like NFL+, YouTube TV, Sling TV, Hulu + Live TV or fuboTV.
Before all the games kick off, you can catch FOX NFL Sunday starting at 12 p.m. ET on FOX stations. Curt Menefee, Terry Bradshaw, Howie Long, Michael Strahan, Rob Gronkowski and Jay Glazer will break down each week’s matchups and talk to key players and coaches.
Conclusion
The NFL Wildcard playoffs are set to kick off this weekend, with several exciting matchups that promise to deliver thrilling football action. With the ability to stream games on various platforms, fans can catch all the action from the comfort of their own homes. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just tuning in for the excitement, the NFL Wildcard playoffs are an event not to be missed.
FAQs
Q: What time do the NFL Wildcard playoffs start?
A: The NFL Wildcard playoffs start on Saturday, Jan. 10, with the first game kicking off at 4:30 p.m. ET.
Q: How can I stream NFL games on FOX?
A: NFL games on FOX can be streamed on FOXSports.com, the FOX Sports App, or FOX One, as well as through various partner providers such as cable companies, satellite TV packages, or subscription streaming platforms.
Q: What channel is the Houston Texans vs. Pittsburgh Steelers game on?
A: The Houston Texans vs. Pittsburgh Steelers game is on ESPN, kicking off at 8:15 p.m. ET on Monday, Jan. 12.
The Source: FOX Sports contributed to this report, along with stats and scores from the NFL. Editor’s note: This station is owned by FOX.
