The Denver Broncos travel to Highmark Stadium to face the Buffalo Bills in an AFC Wild Card matchup on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET. Denver, the No. 7 seed at 10-7, enters the postseason for the first time since winning Super Bowl 50. Buffalo, the No. 2 seed, is 13-4 and hosting their sixth straight playoff appearance under coach Sean McDermott.
These teams last met in November 2023, with Denver pulling out a narrow 24-22 road victory. Josh Allen had a tough outing in that game with three turnovers, something the Bills must avoid against Denver’s high-pressure defense. With a strong season on both sides of the ball, Buffalo looks to finally make a deep playoff run, while Denver hopes to build on rookie quarterback Bo Nix’s stellar play.
Denver Broncos Preview – Nix Leads the New Era
The Broncos enter the playoffs on a high note after a dominant 38-0 win over Kansas City in Week 18. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix was excellent, throwing for 321 yards and four touchdowns. Nix finished the season with 3,775 passing yards, 29 touchdowns, and just 10 interceptions, solidifying his role as the franchise quarterback.
Denver’s defense has been a strength, leading the league with 63 sacks and forcing 25 turnovers. Linebacker Nik Bonitto had a breakout season with 13.5 sacks, and Jonathon Cooper added 10.5. The unit’s ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks will be key against Josh Allen, who has struggled with turnovers in big games.
The Broncos’ run game, led by Jaleel McLaughlin, provides balance for the offense. Denver’s offensive line has been steady, but the challenge will be facing Buffalo’s physical defensive front in a hostile environment.
Buffalo Bills Preview – Allen Looks to Deliver
The Bills have been dominant at home this season, going 8-0 at Highmark Stadium. Josh Allen has been a consistent force, throwing for over 4,000 yards and leading Buffalo to the league’s second-best scoring offense (30.9 points per game). Allen has excelled in the Wild Card round, with 13 career touchdown passes in these games.
Buffalo’s offense is balanced, ranking ninth in both passing and rushing. James Cook has been a productive lead back, complementing Allen’s ability to make plays with his legs. The receiving corps, led by Keon Coleman and Mack Hollins, provides multiple threats downfield.
Defensively, the Bills are solid against the run, allowing just 115.5 rushing yards per game. Their ability to contain Bo Nix and force him into mistakes will be critical. With minimal injuries, Buffalo’s defensive depth gives them an edge in this matchup.
Betting Prediction
The Bills are 8.5-point favorites, with the total set at 47.5 points. Buffalo’s home dominance and playoff experience make them the favorites, but Denver’s defense could keep it close. Bo Nix has shown poise, and Denver’s pass rush could disrupt Allen enough to prevent a blowout.
Expect Buffalo to win but for Denver to cover the spread. The total could go over, given both offenses’ recent performances and big-play potential.
Pick: Denver +8.5, Over 47.5
