The Denver Broncos and Buffalo Bills face off in a high-stakes AFC Wild Card matchup, with each team eager to extend its postseason journey. The Bills, led by Josh Allen, are no strangers to the playoffs, having consistently been on the cusp of a Super Bowl appearance but falling short each time. On the other hand, the Broncos return to the postseason under the leadership of Sean Payton, who has transformed the team into a competitive force in just two seasons.
This will be the first postseason meeting between the two franchises since Denver’s victory in the 1991 AFC Championship Game. While the Bills are 8-0 at home this season, the Broncos bring a top-tier defense and a “never-say-die” attitude on offense that could make this game closer than anticipated. Here’s a comprehensive preview of this intriguing wild-card clash.
Denver Broncos Scouting Report
Head Coach: Sean Payton
Quarterback: Bo Nix (Rookie)
Record: 10-7 (3rd in AFC West)
Season Overview
Sean Payton has significantly impacted Denver, guiding the Broncos to the playoffs in just his second season. Despite absorbing a historic $85 million dead cap for Russell Wilson’s contract, the Broncos managed to field a competitive roster. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix has been a revelation, throwing for 3,775 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions. Nix’s steady performance has been supported by a strong defense and improved offensive efficiency under Payton’s guidance.
Key Players
- Bo Nix: 3,775 passing yards, 29 TDs, 12 INTs
- Javonte Williams: 513 rushing yards, 4 TDs
- Courtland Sutton: 1,081 receiving yards, 8 TDs
- Nik Bonito: 13.5 sacks
- Pat Surtain II: 4 interceptions
Strengths
The Broncos’ defense is their defining strength, ranking third in points allowed (18.3 per game) and second in yards per play (4.9). Nik Bonito and Jonathon Cooper form a formidable pass-rushing duo, combining for 24 sacks, while Pat Surtain II anchors the secondary with his elite coverage skills. Offensively, rookie Bo Nix has shown poise, and Courtland Sutton has emerged as a reliable target in the passing game.
Weaknesses
The Broncos’ rushing attack has been inconsistent, ranking 21st in yards per carry (4.1) and 16th in rushing yards per game (112.2). Additionally, their offense struggles to stretch the field, with a 24th-ranked yards per pass average (6.7). These limitations could make keeping pace with Buffalo’s high-scoring offense challenging.
Buffalo Bills Scouting Report
Head Coach: Sean McDermott
Quarterback: Josh Allen
Record: 13-4 (1st in AFC East)
Season Overview
The Bills enter the playoffs with one goal: finally breaking through and reaching the Super Bowl. After years of regular-season dominance followed by postseason disappointment, Buffalo underwent significant roster changes in the offseason, including the trade of Stefon Diggs. Despite these moves, the Bills maintained their status as one of the league’s elite teams, finishing with a 13-4 record and securing the AFC’s second seed.
Key Players
- Josh Allen: 3,731 passing yards, 28 TDs, 6 INTs
- James Cook: 1,009 rushing yards, 16 TDs
- Khalil Shakir: 821 receiving yards, 4 TDs
- Greg Rousseau: 8 sacks
- Dorian Williams: 117 tackles
Strengths
Buffalo’s offense is a juggernaut, ranking second in points per game (30.9) and first in points per play (0.512). Josh Allen has been efficient, throwing just six interceptions, while James Cook has become a key contributor in the run game with 1,009 rushing yards and a league-leading 16 rushing touchdowns. While not as dominant as in past years, the defense remains solid, ranking 11th in points allowed per game (21.6) and sixth in interceptions (2.77%).
Weaknesses
The Bills’ defense has been inconsistent, particularly against the pass, where they rank 28th in completion percentage allowed (68.51%). Additionally, the absence of Stefon Diggs has limited their ability to create explosive plays in the passing game, as no receiver eclipsed 1,000 yards this season.
Related: Buffalo Bills 2024 Season Preview
Key Matchups to Watch
1. Bo Nix vs. Bills Secondary
The rookie quarterback faces a stern test against a Buffalo secondary led by Rasul Douglas and Christian Benford. While Nix has been efficient, the Bills’ opportunistic defense could capitalize on any mistakes.
2. Josh Allen vs. Broncos Pass Rush
Allen’s ability to navigate Denver’s aggressive pass rush, led by Nik Bonito and Jonathon Cooper, will be critical. Denver ranks first in sack percentage (9.42%), making Allen’s mobility and quick decision-making vital.
3. James Cook vs. Broncos Front Seven
Cook’s ability to find running lanes against Denver’s stout run defense (3.9 yards per carry allowed, third in the NFL) could dictate Buffalo’s offensive rhythm.
4. Broncos WRs vs. Bills CBs
Courtland Sutton and Marvin Mims Jr. must win their matchups against Buffalo’s secondary to give Bo Nix reliable targets downfield.
Betting Trends and Game Prediction
This matchup is one of the more intriguing wild-card games. Buffalo is an 8.5-point favorite, but Denver’s defense and “never-quit” attitude make them a tough opponent. While Buffalo’s offense has been prolific, the Broncos’ top-three defense could keep the game closer than expected.
Buffalo’s home-field advantage cannot be understated, as they are 8-0 at home this season. Conversely, the Broncos are 4-5 on the road, with three losses coming by one score or less. However, Denver’s recent struggles on the road, including a 31-point loss to Baltimore, raise concerns about their ability to compete in a hostile environment.
Final Score Prediction: Bills 27, Broncos 21
The Broncos’ defense will make this a competitive game, but Buffalo’s balanced offense, led by Josh Allen and James Cook, will ultimately prove too much for Denver to overcome. Expect the Bills to advance to the divisional round, keeping their Super Bowl aspirations alive. Denver’s promising young core, led by Bo Nix, signals a bright future, but they fall short against a more experienced Buffalo team.
