NFL Conference Finals Drama, Coaching Moves, and Calls for Peace: January 25, 2026
The sports world was abuzz on January 25, 2026, as the NFL Conference Championship games delivered high drama, coaching changes made headlines, and both athletes and organizations spoke out for peace amid national unrest.
The Los Angeles Rams are fighting to keep their Super Bowl hopes alive, as they continue to close the gap in a tense conference championship matchup. With another field goal narrowing the deficit, fans are glued to the action, awaiting the next big moment in this pivotal NFL showdown. The live coverage captures every twist and turn as the Rams attempt a comeback on football’s biggest stage. (Follow live: Rams close the gap with another FG)
Meanwhile, the New England Patriots are celebrating a triumphant return to the Super Bowl. In a frigid AFC Championship battle, the Pats edged out the Denver Broncos, earning their ticket to Super Bowl LX. The victory marks another chapter in the Patriots’ storied postseason history, as they overcame the elements and a tough Broncos squad to secure the conference crown. Patriots fans are already dreaming of another Lombardi Trophy, while the Broncos are left to regroup after a hard-fought campaign. (Super return: Pats freeze out Broncos for LX trip)
Off the field, Minnesota’s professional teams and the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) have joined together to call for peace following a wave of shootings and civil unrest in the region. Their unified message underscores the influence of sports organizations in times of crisis, as they urge communities to come together and seek nonviolent solutions. The statement reflects a growing trend of athletes and leagues using their platforms to address social issues and promote positive change. (Minnesota teams, NBPA call for peace amid unrest)
In NFL coaching news, sources report that the New York Giants have hired Dennard Wilson as their new defensive coordinator under head coach John Harbaugh. Wilson, known for his defensive acumen, is expected to bring a fresh approach to the Giants’ defense as the team looks to rebound in the upcoming season. The move signals a new era for the Giants, who are eager to return to playoff contention. (Sources: Giants hire Wilson as Harbaugh’s DC)
The Pittsburgh Steelers are also making headlines, with team president Art Rooney II expressing excitement about the hiring of Mike McCarthy as head coach. Rooney highlighted McCarthy’s winning track record and emphasized the organization’s commitment to returning to its championship ways. Steelers fans are hopeful that McCarthy’s experience will translate into renewed success on the field. (Rooney to fans: Steelers ‘excited’ about McCarthy)
In college basketball, the No. 2 South Carolina Gamecocks, led by standout Latson, ended No. 5 Vanderbilt’s impressive 20-game winning streak. The Gamecocks’ dominant performance solidifies their status as a national powerhouse and shakes up the women’s college basketball rankings as tournament season approaches. (Latson, No. 2 Gamecocks end Vandy streak at 20)
Image credit: ESPN
What to watch next
- Follow live: Rams close the gap with another FG
- Super return: Pats freeze out Broncos for LX trip
- Minnesota teams, NBPA call for peace amid unrest
- Sources: Giants hire Wilson as Harbaugh's DC
- Rooney to fans: Steelers 'excited' about McCarthy
- Latson, No. 2 Gamecocks end Vandy streak at 20