NFL Game Watching Tips for Wild Card Weekend

Brought to you by McGinty’s Wood Oven Pub

Happy New Year and get ready for NFL Playoff fever, and possibly a return to glory for the Denver Broncos.

Unfortunately, due to holiday deadlines, we can’t really give you the most updated insider information, but this weekend, (Saturday, Sunday and Monday night) is the first round of the playoffs, which often amounts to the most entertaining. This is what is classified as the Wild Card stage.  Altogether, 14 teams are the hunt for the Super Bowl LX trophy, with two teams, the top teams in the NFC and AFC getting byes for the first round.   Denver may be one of those teams, but we can’t say for sure.

Despite many unknown questions, one fact remains certain: The Broncos will play their first playoff game at home, which is a big plus.  Twelve teams will duke it out this weekend to determine the final eight for the Division Championship, slated for Jan 17-18, and then the final four on Jan. 25 for the Conference Championships, paving the way for the Super Bowl two finalists on Feb. 8.

Sounds a little confusing, but actually as the games unfold it gets a little simpler.

The 2025 playoff picture is somewhat unique this year in that past powerhouses really are not in the hunt this year, and no real dominant team rules the football world, odds that bode well for the Broncos. The Broncs have a great record, but many of their victories weren’t exactly aesthetically pretty.

When it comes to the overall playoff, the Broncos have netted more appearances in post-season play than any other team. Their playoff record amounts to 23 wins and 20 losses in 43 games, including 3 Super Bowl victories and 8 appearances in the world championship shoot-out. Impressive, but their recent playoff record for the last 10 years is terrible, with zilch victories.

This is a lot of information for the playoffs, and one reason you need to head to your favorite sports bar and eatery to sort out the facts and grapple with depressing forecasts from key insiders, like Trevor Phipps of TMJ, who is still getting hammered with abuse from his woeful anti-Bronco picks.

If you are looking for a great place to enjoy the NFL playoffs, head to McGinty’s Wood Oven Pub in Divide, the sponsor of our fine NFL Page and Broncos’ preview. McGinty’s, with their sports bar setup, offers a prime opportunity to view the NFL playoff games and partake in some great game food and drink specials.  McGinty’s also sports a loyal group of Bronco fans and some enthusiastic cynics too.

Another prime spot is Jess’ Place in Woodland Park, which sports a rowdy NFL atmosphere. And if you are looking for game-time plates or treats, check out Joanie’s Deli & Bakery.

Enjoy the NFL playoffs and Go Broncos.