Posted on Dec 28

Broncos clinch AFC West title, set for playoff rematch against Chargers at home

Posted Dec 28, 2025

The Denver Broncos have clinched their first AFC West title in a decade, setting the stage for a playoff showdown against the Los Angeles Chargers.

Why it matters: This victory not only marks a significant turnaround for the Broncos but also ends the Kansas City Chiefs nine-year reign over the division. The Broncos secured the title with a 13-3 record, signaling a resurgence under head coach Jim Harbaugh.

The Broncos will host their first playoff game since January 2016.
They are poised to face the Chargers, who have been a formidable opponent, having defeated the Broncos in all three matchups since Harbaugh took over.

What’s new: The Broncos’ success is largely attributed to their strong home-field advantage this season.

With a record of 7-1 at Empower Field at Mile High, they have won 12 of their past 13 home games.
This upcoming playoff game promises an electric atmosphere, as players like quarterback Bo Nix anticipate a “playoff atmosphere” that fans have long awaited.

Yes, but: While enthusiasm runs high, the Broncos must overcome their recent struggles against the Chargers.

Historically, the Broncos have lost their last three encounters with Los Angeles since Harbaugh's arrival as head coach.
Patrick Mahomes’ injury-plagued season may open the door for other teams, but the Chargers remain a significant hurdle for Denver.

What’s next: For the Broncos, the immediate focus is on securing the AFC's No. 1 seed, contingent on favorable outcomes in other Week 17 games.

To achieve this, the Broncos need the Patriots, Jaguars, and Bills to lose or tie their respective matches.
Achieving this would further bolster the team's momentum heading into the playoffs.

The bottom line: As the Broncos celebrate their AFC West championship, the road ahead presents both challenges and opportunities.

Coach Sean Payton emphasized the importance of remaining focused: "It will be relaxing, it will be nice,” indicating a measured approach to this crucial moment.
The excitement surrounding this team mirrors the optimism of their fan base, eager to witness a potential revival in postseason success.

Broncos clinch AFC West title, set for playoff rematch against Chargers at home

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 28, 2025

The Denver Broncos have clinched their first AFC West title in a decade, setting the stage for a playoff showdown against the Los Angeles Chargers.

The Broncos will host their first playoff game since January 2016.

They are poised to face the Chargers, who have been a formidable opponent, having defeated the Broncos in all three matchups since Harbaugh took over.

What’s new: The Broncos’ success is largely attributed to their strong home-field advantage this season.

With a record of 7-1 at Empower Field at Mile High, they have won 12 of their past 13 home games.

This upcoming playoff game promises an electric atmosphere, as players like quarterback Bo Nix anticipate a “playoff atmosphere” that fans have long awaited.

Yes, but: While enthusiasm runs high, the Broncos must overcome their recent struggles against the Chargers.

Historically, the Broncos have lost their last three encounters with Los Angeles since Harbaugh's arrival as head coach.

Patrick Mahomes’ injury-plagued season may open the door for other teams, but the Chargers remain a significant hurdle for Denver.

What’s next: For the Broncos, the immediate focus is on securing the AFC's No. 1 seed, contingent on favorable outcomes in other Week 17 games.

To achieve this, the Broncos need the Patriots, Jaguars, and Bills to lose or tie their respective matches.

Achieving this would further bolster the team's momentum heading into the playoffs.

The bottom line: As the Broncos celebrate their AFC West championship, the road ahead presents both challenges and opportunities.

Coach Sean Payton emphasized the importance of remaining focused: "It will be relaxing, it will be nice,” indicating a measured approach to this crucial moment.

The excitement surrounding this team mirrors the optimism of their fan base, eager to witness a potential revival in postseason success.