The Denver Broncos (10-7) will face the Buffalo Bills (13-4) in the AFC Wild Card Playoff on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York. The game kicks off at 1:00 PM ET and will be broadcast on CBS. This matchup pits the Broncos’ stout defense against the Bills’ high-powered offense, setting the stage for an exciting playoff clash.
Key Matchup Details
Teams at a Glance
Buffalo Bills: The Bills finished the regular season as the No. 2 seed in the AFC, boasting a 13-4 record. They rank 2nd in the NFL in points per game (30.9) and 11th in defense (21.6 points allowed per game).
Denver Broncos: The Broncos secured a Wild Card spot with a 10-7 record. Their defense ranks 3rd in the NFL, allowing just 18.3 points per game, while their offense averages 25.0 points per game (10th in the league).
Head-to-Head History
The last meeting between these teams was on November 13, 2023, when the Broncos edged out the Bills 24-22.
Weather Conditions
The game will be played in 28°F (-2°C) weather with overcast skies and light winds, typical for Buffalo in January.
Players to Watch
Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen (QB): Allen threw for 3,731 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions during the regular season. He is a dual-threat quarterback, adding 531 rushing yards and 12 rushing touchdowns.
James Cook (RB): Cook rushed for 1,009 yards and 16 touchdowns, making him a key weapon in the Bills’ offense.
Khalil Shakir (WR): Shakir led the Bills with 821 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns.
Denver Broncos
Bo Nix (QB): The rookie quarterback threw for 3,775 yards, 29 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, showing promise despite his inexperience.
Courtland Sutton (WR): Sutton was the Broncos’ top receiver, amassing 1,081 yards and 8 touchdowns.
Javonte Williams (RB): Williams rushed for 513 yards and 4 touchdowns, providing balance to the Broncos’ offense.
Injury Report
Broncos: Key players like Tyler Badie (RB) and Frank Crum (OT) are listed as questionable or out due to injuries.
Bills: The Bills are relatively healthy, with only a few players, such as Ja’Marcus Ingram (CB), listed as questionable.
Predictions and Odds
Spread: Bills -9.
Moneyline: Bills -450, Broncos +350.
Over/Under: 47.5 points.
Score Prediction: Bills 30, Broncos 20.
How to Watch
TV: CBS.
Streaming: Available on Paramount+ and DAZN (Canada).
Conclusion
The Broncos vs. Bills Wild Card matchup promises to be a thrilling contest between a dominant offense and a resilient defense. While the Bills are favored to win, the Broncos’ strong defensive performance could make this a closer game than expected. Tune in on CBS at 1:00 PM ET to catch all the action!