Red River in the Pros: Who to Watch in the NFL Divisional Round
DALLAS — The road to Super Bowl LX narrows this weekend with the NFL Divisional Round. For fans of the Red River Rivalry, the schedule offers plenty of reasons to tune in, with marquee matchups featuring former stars from both Norman and Austin.
Here is your guide to the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners active in this weekend’s playoff games.
Saturday, Jan. 17
Buffalo Bills vs. Denver Broncos
4:30 p.m. ET | CBS
This game is arguably the headliner for Red River fans, particularly those wearing Crimson and Cream. It turns into a massive reunion on the defensive side of the ball.
- For the Bills: Veteran defensive tackle Jordan Phillips (OU) anchors the middle of the Buffalo line.
- For the Broncos: Denver’s roster is loaded with familiar faces. Keep an eye on pass rusher Nik Bonitto (OU), who has become a key disruptor. On special teams and offense, Marvin Mims Jr. (OU) remains a dangerous weapon.
- Texas Ties: The Broncos’ secondary features plenty of Burnt Orange DNA with Brandon Jones (Texas) and rookie sensation Jahdae Barron (Texas), who has made an immediate impact since being drafted in the first round.
San Francisco 49ers vs. Seattle Seahawks
8:00 p.m. ET | FOX
A bitter NFC West rivalry renews with high stakes.
- For the 49ers: The best left tackle in football, Trent Williams (OU), continues his Hall of Fame caliber career, protecting the blind side as the Niners aim for another title. Tight end Brayden Willis (OU) also looks to contribute.
- For the Seahawks: The “Punisher” Michael Dickson (Texas) gives Seattle a massive field position advantage every game. On defense, Byron Murphy II (Texas) is a force in the trenches.
Sunday, Jan. 18
Houston Texans vs. New England Patriots
3:00 p.m. ET | ESPN/ABC
A battle of elite running backs from Oklahoma highlights this AFC clash.
- For the Texans: Joe Mixon (OU) has been the engine of the Houston offense, providing a physical presence that balances their aerial attack.
- For the Patriots: On the other sideline, Rhamondre Stevenson (OU) does the same for New England. It is a true “Sooner vs. Sooner” backfield showcase.
- Texas Ties: New England special teams ace Brenden Schooler (Texas) will likely be involved in key plays in the third phase of the game.
Los Angeles Rams vs. Chicago Bears
6:30 p.m. ET | NBC
The weekend concludes with two historic NFC franchises.
- For the Rams: Nose tackle Poona Ford (Texas) remains a fan favorite for Longhorn nation and a stout run defender for L.A.
- For the Bears: The Chicago backfield features the gritty Roschon Johnson (Texas), whose tough running style is built for January football. Wide receiver Devin Duvernay (Texas) provides speed and return ability if active.
Summary
Whether it’s the “Sooner Bowl” in the AFC backfields or the heavy defensive presence of Longhorns in Denver and Seattle, the influence of the Red River Rivalry is all over the 2026 NFL Playoffs.
