The New England Patriots vs. Denver Broncos AFC Championship Game broadcast schedule has officially been updated, igniting massive excitement among NFL fans as the road to Super Bowl LX intensifies. In this blockbuster conference title clash, the No. 2 seed Patriots travel to face the No. 1 seed Broncos at Empower Field at Mile High on Sunday, January 25, 2026. The NFL has confirmed the kickoff time adjustment for optimal national viewing, placing this high-stakes matchup in a prime afternoon slot on CBS.

Whether you’re a Patriots loyalist in New England or cheering for Denver’s home-field dominance, here’s the complete breakdown of the time change, viewing options, key storylines, and why this game is a can’t-miss event.

The Broadcast Schedule Update: What Changed and Why It Matters

Originally anticipated in various windows, the AFC Championship has been finalized at 3:00 p.m. ET (12:00 p.m. PT / 1:00 p.m. MT in Denver). This tweak separates it cleanly from the NFC Championship (Los Angeles Rams at Seattle Seahawks at 6:30 p.m. ET on FOX), preventing overlap and maximizing audience engagement across time zones. CBS secures the broadcast rights for this AFC showdown, ensuring wide national coverage without regional conflicts in most markets.

The adjustment prioritizes primetime buildup and post-game analysis, allowing fans to transition smoothly between games or catch both if desired. With the Broncos hosting after a thrilling overtime divisional win over the Buffalo Bills (33-30), and the Patriots advancing decisively over the Houston Texans (28-16), this schedule shift amplifies the drama of two resilient teams battling for a Super Bowl berth.

Essential Game Details: Time, Location, TV, and Streaming Date: Sunday, January 25, 2026 Kickoff Time: 3:00 p.m. ET / 2:00 p.m. CT / 1:00 p.m. MT / 12:00 p.m.

PT Venue: Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, Colorado (high-altitude challenge for the road team) TV Broadcast: CBS (national) – Play-by-play by Jim Nantz, analyst Tony Romo, sideline reporters Tracy Wolfson and Evan Washburn Streaming Options: Paramount+ (live in most markets), NFL+, Fubo, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV (with CBS access), and other platforms carrying local CBS affiliates Radio: Patriots Radio Network (98.5 The Sports Hub flagship), Broncos affiliates, SiriusXM, and NFL app audio

Pregame shows start early, with CBS offering in-depth coverage from around 1:00 p.m. ET. For international viewers or those without cable, Paramount+ and NFL+ deliver full live streams. Check local listings for any market-specific blackouts, though as a national playoff game, availability should be broad.

How the Schedule Change Impacts Fans’ Viewing Experience

This finalized 3:00 p.m. ET start is a fan-friendly move. It avoids clashing with late-afternoon activities on the East Coast while giving West Coast audiences an early kickoff without late-night viewing. No more channel-flipping dilemmas—tune into CBS for the AFC battle, then switch to FOX for the NFC finale later. The earlier slot also suits families and large gatherings, building hype for what could be a defensive masterpiece or explosive offensive showcase.

Denver’s mile-high altitude adds intrigue: The Patriots, with an impressive 8-0 road record this season, face the thin air that historically challenges visitors. Expect weather considerations too—January in Denver can bring cold snaps or sun, potentially affecting field conditions and strategy.

Must-Watch Storylines: Patriots vs. Broncos Drama

This matchup revives a classic rivalry. The Broncos previously defeated New England in AFC Championships in 2013 and 2015 (both in Denver), holding a perfect 4-0 home postseason record against the Pats. Now, under new dynamics, the stakes are sky-high.

The Patriots, led by MVP-candidate quarterback Drake Maye and coach Mike Vrabel’s opportunistic defense, boast a balanced attack averaging 28.8 points per game. Their road prowess makes them dangerous underdogs despite facing the top seed.

Denver, the AFC’s No. 1 with a stout defense (allowing just 18.3 points per game), suffered a major blow: Starting QB Bo Nix is out for the season with an ankle injury. Backup Jarrett Stidham—familiar with Patriots culture from his time in New England—steps in. Stidham’s preseason flashes (high completion rate, no picks) and Denver’s elite pass rush could keep it close.

Key battles include Maye’s mobility vs. Denver’s front seven, and the Broncos’ run game against New England’s turnover-forcing secondary. Betting lines hover around Patriots as slight favorites in some spots, but home-field and rivalry history tilt momentum Denver’s way.

This isn’t just another playoff game—it’s a clash of defenses, quarterback resilience, and legacy. A win sends either team to Super Bowl LX at Levi’s Stadium on February 8.

Final Viewing Tips and Predictions

Set your alarms, stock up on snacks, and prepare for intensity. The updated schedule ensures maximum accessibility—stream on Paramount+ if you’re mobile, or gather around the TV for CBS coverage. Tailgate in Denver if possible; the 12th Man equivalent awaits at Mile High.

Who advances? The altitude, Stidham’s poise, and Denver’s defense might edge it, but Maye’s star power could spark an upset. This AFC Championship promises fireworks.

Stay locked in for injury updates, odds shifts, and live reactions as kickoff nears. Super Bowl LX awaits—who will represent the AFC? Share your pick below—this one’s for the ages!