Denver, Colorado, January 5, 2026
In a thrilling finish to the NFL regular season, the Denver Broncos secured the AFC No. 1 seed with a dominant victory over the Los Angeles Chargers. Meanwhile, the Jacksonville Jaguars and Carolina Panthers made significant strides by clinching their respective division titles. The Broncos achieved this milestone for the first time since their Super Bowl win in 2015, while the Jaguars extended their winning streak to eight games with a decisive win. The Panthers celebrated their first NFC South title since 2017, setting the stage for an exciting playoff season ahead.
Denver Broncos Clinch AFC No. 1 Seed; Jaguars and Panthers Excel
Denver, Colorado – The NFL’s final week brought exciting developments, with the Denver Broncos securing the AFC’s No. 1 seed, while the Jacksonville Jaguars and Carolina Panthers clinched division titles. These achievements showcase the tenacity and skill of these teams as they prepare for the challenges ahead in the playoffs.
Denver Broncos Clinch AFC’s No. 1 Seed
The Broncos sealed the top position in the AFC with a convincing 19-3 win over the Los Angeles Chargers. This marks a significant milestone for Denver, as it’s their first time earning this accomplishment since their successful Super Bowl season in 2015. Their defense was paramount to this victory, allowing only three points while the offense performed efficiently, ensuring home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Jacksonville Jaguars Clinch AFC South Title
Meanwhile, the Jacksonville Jaguars dominated the Tennessee Titans, triumphing with a staggering 41-7 win. Quarterback Trevor Lawrence shone bright during the game, throwing three touchdown passes and notching a new franchise record for total touchdowns in a season. The victory extends Jacksonville’s winning streak to eight games, thereby positioning them as strong contenders for the upcoming playoff matchup.
Carolina Panthers Secure NFC South Championship
The Carolina Panthers claimed their first NFC South division title since 2017, owing to a 19-17 victory by the Atlanta Falcons over the New Orleans Saints. This unexpected outcome allowed the Panthers to solidify their position atop the division, marking a significant victory for the team and its dedicated fan base.
Notable Week 18 Results
Several other key games capped off the regular season:
- New England Patriots 38, Miami Dolphins 10: The Patriots delivered a strong performance with quarterback Joe Milton III making a notable debut.
- New York Giants 34, Dallas Cowboys 17: The Giants ended their season on a high note with a decisive victory against their rivals.
- Green Bay Packers 3, Minnesota Vikings 16: The Vikings secured a solid win as the Packers’ offense struggled.
- Indianapolis Colts 30, Houston Texans 38: The Texans clinched the AFC’s No. 5 seed through a last-second field goal and strengthened their winning streak to nine games.
- New Orleans Saints 17, Atlanta Falcons 19: The Falcons’ narrow win over the Saints allowed the Panthers to claim the NFC South title.
Looking Ahead to the Playoffs
As the regular season wraps up, excitement builds for the NFL playoffs, which commence on January 10, 2026. The Broncos, Jaguars, and Panthers will lead their respective conferences, setting their sights on Super Bowl LX, which is scheduled for February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
Frequently Asked Questions
What teams clinched their divisions in Week 18?
The Denver Broncos secured the AFC’s No. 1 seed, the Jacksonville Jaguars clinched the AFC South title, and the Carolina Panthers won the NFC South division in Week 18.
When do the NFL playoffs begin?
The NFL playoffs are set to begin on January 10, 2026, following the conclusion of the regular season.
Where will Super Bowl LX be held?
Super Bowl LX is scheduled to take place on February 8, 2026, at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
| Game | Final Score | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| New England Patriots vs. Miami Dolphins | 38-10 | Patriots’ quarterback Joe Milton III made a strong debut, passing for a touchdown and running for another. |
| New York Giants vs. Dallas Cowboys | 34-17 | Giants ended their season on a high note, defeating the Cowboys in a decisive matchup. |
| Green Bay Packers vs. Minnesota Vikings | 3-16 | Vikings secured a solid win, with the Packers’ offense struggling throughout the game. |
| Indianapolis Colts vs. Houston Texans | 30-38 | Texans clinched the AFC’s No. 5 seed with a last-second field goal and a defensive touchdown, extending their winning streak to nine games. |
| New Orleans Saints vs. Atlanta Falcons | 17-19 | Falcons’ narrow victory over the Saints allowed the Panthers to clinch the NFC South division title. |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
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