Josh Allen Leads Bills into AFC Wild Card Clash Against Broncos

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen will look to continue his historic playoff dominance as his team hosts the Denver Broncos in the AFC Wild Card game on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at Highmark Stadium. Allen, the only quarterback in NFL history with five consecutive 40-touchdown seasons, has been even more prolific in the postseason, boasting the best touchdown-to-interception ratio (5.25) in playoff history.

Allen’s dual-threat ability has been a nightmare for opposing defenses. In 10 career playoff games, he has averaged 330.2 offensive yards and 2.7 touchdowns per game, both NFL records. His 21 passing touchdowns and just four interceptions in the playoffs highlight his efficiency under pressure. Broncos head coach Sean Payton acknowledged the challenge of containing Allen, noting his ability to extend plays and create opportunities outside the pocket.

The Bills’ offensive line, which has allowed only one sack in its last seven games, will face a formidable test against Denver’s league-leading pass rush. The Broncos finished the regular season with 63 sacks, led by outside linebacker Nik Bonitto‘s 13.5 sacks. Buffalo’s right tackle Spencer Brown emphasized the importance of the battle at the line of scrimmage, calling it a key factor in determining the outcome of the game.

On the other side, Broncos rookie quarterback Bo Nix has emerged as a rising star, earning AFC Offensive Player of the Week honors twice and finishing the season with 33 total touchdowns. Nix’s ability to make plays with his arm and legs has drawn comparisons to Allen, though Bills defensive coordinator Bobby Babich stressed the importance of pressuring the young quarterback early and often.

Denver’s defense, anchored by cornerbacks Patrick Surtain and Riley Moss, has been one of the league’s best this season. However, analysts point to the Broncos’ inside linebackers as a potential weakness in coverage, which the Bills could exploit with their versatile running backs. James Cook, Ray Davis, and Ty Johnson have combined for eight receiving touchdowns this season and could play a pivotal role in Buffalo’s game plan.

With both teams boasting strong defenses and dynamic quarterbacks, Sunday’s matchup promises to be a hard-fought battle as the Bills aim to advance in the playoffs and the Broncos look to pull off an upset on the road.