The Buffalo Bills will host the Denver Broncos this Sunday, January 12, at Highmark Stadium in an AFC Wild Card battle. Buffalo comes into this matchup with an undefeated 8-0 home record, while Denver boasts the league’s top pass rush. With playoff dreams on the line, this game promises to deliver high-stakes action and strategic drama.
How to watch Buffalo Bills vs. Denver Broncos
Fans can catch the game live starting at 1 p.m. ET. Here’s how to tune in:
- TV: CBS, featuring Jim Nantz (play-by-play), Tony Romo (analysis), and sideline reporting by Tracy Wolfson and Jay Feely.
- Streaming: Paramount+ subscribers can watch live local coverage, while NFL+ offers mobile streaming for all playoff games.
- Radio: The Bills Radio Network will broadcast the game. Flagship stations include WGR550 in Buffalo and Fan 590 in Toronto. Commentary will feature Chris Brown (play-by-play), Eric Wood (analysis), and Sal Capaccio (sideline).
For international fans, the game is available via NFL Game Pass, allowing access to live streaming worldwide.
Four Buffalo Bills players who could change the game
While the spotlight often shines on quarterbacks, several key Bills players could make the difference against Denver’s formidable defense:
Khalil Shakir: A slot threat with big potential
Denver’s Patrick Surtain will likely neutralize Buffalo’s primary wideouts, leaving opportunities for Khalil Shakir in the slot. Shakir, who ranked second in the NFL with 605 yards after the catch (YAC), matches up against Ja’Quan McMillian, a slot corner who allowed the league’s highest total of 353 yards after catch. Expect Shakir to play a pivotal role in Buffalo’s short passing game, particularly on quick slants and screens.
James Cook: The antidote to Denver’s pass rush
Denver leads the NFL with 63 sacks, but James Cook’s dual-threat ability as a rusher and receiver could relieve pressure on Josh Allen. Cook has amassed over 1,000 rushing yards this season and tied the league lead with 16 rushing touchdowns. While Denver’s run defense ranks third in the league, allowing just 96.3 rushing yards per game, they’ve struggled against top-tier rushing offenses, giving up an average of 122.3 yards in those games.
Greg Rousseau: Buffalo’s pass-rushing hope
Buffalo’s pass rush has been inconsistent in recent playoff appearances, but Greg Rousseau offers a glimmer of hope. With 63 quarterback pressures this season, Rousseau ranks 12th among NFL defensive linemen. He will face a stiff challenge in Denver’s left tackle Garrett Bolles, ranked as Pro Football Focus’s second-best offensive tackle. If Rousseau can disrupt rookie quarterback Bo Nix, who rushed for 430 yards this season, it could tilt the game in Buffalo’s favor.
Matt Milano: The screen-game enforcer
Returning from injury, All-Pro linebacker Matt Milano is crucial to stopping Denver’s effective screen game. The Broncos call screens on 15.3% of their passing plays, generating 20 first downs and five touchdowns this season. Milano’s ability to read and disrupt these plays will be vital, alongside contributions from linebacker Terrel Bernard and slot cornerback Taron Johnson.
What’s at stake for both teams?
For the Bills, this game represents more than just a playoff matchup. With an 8-0 home record, Buffalo has turned Highmark Stadium into a fortress. The team’s passionate fanbase, known as the “Bills Mafia,” will be braving freezing temperatures to create a raucous, electric atmosphere. “Our fans are the heartbeat of this stadium,” said head coach Sean McDermott earlier this week. “There’s no better place to play in January.”
For Denver, this Wild Card clash is a chance to make a statement. Rookie quarterback Bo Nix has shown promise, but facing Buffalo’s defense in a hostile environment will be his toughest challenge yet. Denver’s defense, anchored by Patrick Surtain and their relentless pass rush, will look to capitalize on any mistakes made by Josh Allen, who has been sacked a league-low 14 times this season.
The final word: A clash of strengths
As the Bills look to leverage their home-field advantage and offensive firepower, the Broncos aim to disrupt with their league-leading defense. With two teams bringing contrasting styles and strengths, this game is poised to be a playoff classic. Will Buffalo’s consistency at Highmark Stadium continue, or can Denver’s defense rise to the occasion and pull off an upset? Fans won’t want to miss what could be the defining game of the AFC Wild Card Weekend.
