The NFL playoffs are underway with the Wild Card Round, bringing a thrilling weekend of football action from Saturday to Monday. For fans in the Cleveland area, this guide offers detailed insights into where and how to catch every game, including crucial matchups that could impact the Browns' standing in the upcoming draft. Beyond just the viewing schedule, it delves into the regional rooting interests, particularly highlighting Ohio's support for the Buffalo Bills, and how certain game outcomes could shape the future of their local team.
The Inaugural Weekend Schedule: Key Matchups and Broadcast Details
The NFL Wild Card Weekend kicks off with a series of highly anticipated games. On Saturday, January 10, 2026, football enthusiasts can tune in to watch the Los Angeles Rams battle the Carolina Panthers at 4:30 PM ET on FOX (WJW 8.1). Later in the evening, at 8:15 PM ET, the Green Bay Packers will face the Chicago Bears in a game exclusively available on Amazon Prime. This particular matchup stands out as the only one this Wild Card Weekend broadcast solely through a streaming service, making it a unique viewing experience for fans without traditional cable access.
Sunday, January 11, 2026, continues the excitement with three more games. The Buffalo Bills will go head-to-head with the Jacksonville Jaguars at 1:00 PM ET on CBS (WOIO 19.1), a game of significant interest to Browns fans due to its potential draft implications. Following this, the San Francisco 49ers will challenge the Philadelphia Eagles at 4:30 PM ET on FOX (WJW 8.1). The day concludes with an 8:00 PM ET showdown between the Los Angeles Chargers and the New England Patriots on NBC (WKYC 3.1). Rounding out the Wild Card Round, Monday, January 12, 2026, features the Houston Texans against the Pittsburgh Steelers at 8:00 PM ET on ESPN/ABC (WEWS 5.1), a game where Browns fans will undoubtedly be hoping for a Steelers' early exit.
Draft Implications and Regional Fan Sentiments
For Cleveland Browns fans, the Wild Card Round is more than just about exciting football; it carries significant implications for their team's draft position. A key game to watch is the Buffalo Bills versus the Jacksonville Jaguars. A victory for the Bills is projected to enhance the Browns' first-round draft pick, which originally belonged to the Jaguars. This adds an extra layer of strategic viewing for those invested in the Browns' future. Similarly, the outcome of the 49ers-Eagles game could also play a role in shaping the Browns' draft prospects, depending on how previous games conclude.
Beyond the draft, the sentiment among Ohio football fans leans heavily towards the Buffalo Bills. Geotagged data and fan hashtag analysis indicate that the Bills are a favored team in the state, despite the presence of other strong contenders. This widespread support for an out-of-state team highlights the complex and sometimes surprising allegiances within the NFL fan base. Furthermore, the Monday night game, while not directly impacting draft positions, offers Browns fans a chance to root against a division rival, the Pittsburgh Steelers, a common occurrence that adds a personal touch to the playoff viewing experience.