The Denver Broncos advanced to the AFC Championship game after defeating the Buffalo Bills 33-30 in overtime during a divisional round playoff match. This victory marks the Broncos' first playoff win in 11 years. Following the game, Broncos quarterback Bo Nix was reported to have sustained a season-ending ankle injury, requiring surgery.
Game Summary
The Denver Broncos secured a 33-30 victory over the Buffalo Bills in an overtime divisional playoff game. The game concluded with a field goal by Broncos kicker Wil Lutz, securing Denver's advancement to the AFC Championship. A total of five turnovers occurred throughout the game.
Overtime Details
The game proceeded into overtime after Bills kicker Matt Prater successfully converted a 50-yard field goal in the final minute of regulation, tying the score. In the overtime period:
- The Buffalo Bills' drive concluded when a pass from Josh Allen was intercepted by Denver defensive back Ja’Quan McMillian.
- The interception involved a contested pass to Bills wide receiver Brandin Cooks. Officials ruled that Cooks did not maintain control of the ball as he landed, and McMillian subsequently secured possession. NFL rules expert Gene Steratore affirmed the ruling.
- The Denver Broncos' ensuing drive was advanced by two pass interference penalties called against the Bills, positioning the Broncos within the 10-yard line.
- Denver kicker Wil Lutz then kicked a field goal, concluding the game.
Player Performances and Statistics
- Bo Nix (Denver Broncos Quarterback): Completed 26 of 46 passes for 279 yards and three touchdowns. He also contributed 29 rushing yards on 12 carries. Nix completed 3 of 4 deep passes (20+ air yards) for 84 yards and two touchdowns. Nix was involved in 58 offensive plays, contributing to the Broncos' offensive strategy which saw running backs record 10 total rushes.
- Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills Quarterback): Accounted for 349 total yards and three touchdowns. He committed four turnovers, consisting of two interceptions and two fumbles. Allen completed 0 of 9 deep passes and threw two interceptions. Following the game, Allen stated, "It’s extremely difficult. I feel like I let my teammates down."
Key Moments
- In regulation, Marvin Mims caught a touchdown pass from Bo Nix, giving the Broncos a late lead.
- Before halftime, Josh Allen threw a backward pass without any teammates in the vicinity and with no timeouts remaining. The Broncos recovered the loose ball, which led to a field goal and extended their lead by ten points.
Player Injuries and Roster Impact
Broncos coach Sean Payton announced that quarterback Bo Nix sustained a broken bone in his ankle during the game, requiring season-ending surgery. As a result, Nix will not participate in the AFC Championship game. Jarrett Stidham is anticipated to assume the starting quarterback role for the Broncos in the upcoming championship match.
Bo Nix's Season Performance Context
Prior to his injury, Bo Nix had accumulated 4,595 total yards and 33 total touchdowns for the season. He maintained a 15-3 record as a starter. Nix also became the first player in NFL history to record over 7,500 passing yards, 750 rushing yards, and a playoff win in his first two seasons.