Jan 8, 2026 — As the NFL postseason arrives, ESPN senior writer Bill Barnwell has released his complete predictions for the 2026 NFL Playoffs, projecting winners for all 13 matchups and offering a bold pick for Super Bowl LX. The breakdown highlights key games from Wild Card Weekend all the way through to the league’s biggest stage.
Barnwell’s bracket analysis reflects one of the most unpredictable postseasons in recent memory. Notably, the Kansas City Chiefs — initially projected as Super Bowl contenders — failed to make the playoff field, while a battered Green Bay Packers team limps in as a No. 7 seed after significant injuries.
Wild Card Round Outlook
The playoff preview opens with several intriguing Wild Card clashes. Barnwell evaluates how matchups could unfold, noting that travel and seed dynamics may play a role early in the postseason. For example, the Chargers are positioned closely against the Patriots, illustrating the tighter margins between playoff clubs this season.
Divisional Round Predictions
Once the field narrows, Barnwell’s bracket models suggest re-matchups and tactical battles as contenders look to punch their ticket to the Conference Championships. Teams with balanced offenses and stout defense are forecasted to advance, while injury concerns may derail others.
Super Bowl LX Forecast
For the championship game, Barnwell’s projection sets up a thrilling showdown: Los Angeles Rams vs. Buffalo Bills. His pick sees the Rams edging the Bills in a high-scoring affair, banking on big-play capability from Matthew Stafford and standout performances from key skill players.
Key Themes and Surprises
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Chiefs miss playoffs: A preseason favourite now absent from the bracket entirely.
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Packers’ uphill battle: Entering as a low seed with injuries clouding their potential.
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Wide-open postseason: Top seeds like the Broncos and Seahawks carry questions despite strong resumes.
Barnwell’s predictions aim to spotlight matchups where strengths, weaknesses and situational edges could decide outcomes — even if picking all games correctly is, as he admits, virtually impossible.
The playoffs are scheduled to kick off on January 10, with Super Bowl LX set for February 8. Fans and analysts alike will now watch closely to see how these bold projections stack up against what unfolds on the field.
