ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — The Buffalo Bills showcased a well-rounded offensive performance that translated seamlessly from the regular season into their playoff opener against the Denver Broncos, resulting in a commanding 31-7 victory in the wild-card round. Quarterback Josh Allen spearheaded the effort, making crucial completions, including a 24-yard touchdown pass to running back Ty Johnson on a pivotal fourth down. Additionally, running back James Cook rushed for 120 yards, featuring a notable 5-yard touchdown run, further exemplifying the team’s balanced offensive strategy.
Allen led by example, completing 20 of his 26 passing attempts for 272 yards, along with two scoring throws. The Bills’ running game contributed significantly by amassing a total of 210 yards, enabling them to dominate time of possession for approximately 23 minutes. Buffalo’s offense was efficient, securing points on six of their initial seven drives, which systematically wore down the Broncos’ defense.
During the game, Allen found eight different receivers, with notable contributions from Curtis Samuel, who delivered a decisive 55-yard touchdown catch on the very first play of the fourth quarter to solidify the team’s lead. Allen acknowledged Samuel’s perseverance throughout the season, stating, “He probably didn’t have the season that he wanted to have. But he just continued to work hard.” This commitment reflected the team’s philosophy that ‘everybody eats’ on game day, and this was Samuel’s opportunity to shine.
The victorious Bills, who have now won the AFC East for five consecutive seasons, not only showcased their scoring prowess—becoming the first team in NFL history to register 30 touchdowns each in passing and rushing—but they also advanced to the divisional round for the fifth straight year. Their next challenge lies ahead as they prepare to face the third-seeded Baltimore Ravens in the upcoming weekend.
The Ravens recently triumphed over the Pittsburgh Steelers with a 28-14 victory and previously defeated the Bills 35-10 in Week 4 of this season. This upcoming showdown marks the second postseason collision between Allen and Ravens’ quarterback Lamar Jackson, following Buffalo’s 17-3 victory in the divisional round of 2020.
Coach Sean McDermott expressed anticipation for the matchup, emphasizing, “This is what everyone’s been waiting for.” He acknowledged the strength of the Ravens, who had previously given the Bills a tough outing.
On the flip side, the seventh-seeded Broncos, appearing in their first playoff game since winning the Super Bowl in 2015, struggled to keep pace with Buffalo. After a promising start, when rookie quarterback Bo Nix found former college teammate Troy Franklin for a 43-yard touchdown on their opening drive, Denver’s offense faltered. Nix completed 13 of 22 passes for 144 yards, but with four punts and two turnovers on downs, the Broncos could not sustain momentum throughout the game.
Reflecting on the season, Nix stated, “I’m really proud of these guys. We’ve overcome a lot and not really been counted in many games… making the playoffs was a special moment for this group.” He recognized the need for continued growth moving forward, especially after his impressive rookie season, tallying 29 touchdown passes—just shy of the NFL record for rookies.
Meanwhile, Buffalo’s offense, led by Allen, effectively nullified the aggressive Broncos’ defense. Despite Denver finishing the year with an impressive 63 sacks, they managed to sack Allen only twice throughout the game, allowing the Bills to execute time-consuming drives that demoralized their opponents.
Allen’s team showed resilience and composure even in crucial situations, such as a pivotal fourth-and-2 stop deep in their territory, exemplified by Cam Lewis’ decisive tackle against Jaleel McLaughlin.
Once Buffalo took a 13-7 lead, Allen delivered a touchdown pass to Ty Johnson that extended their advantage. The score was upheld after a video review confirmed Johnson’s possession, despite a close out-of-bounds call.
Coach McDermott expressed confidence in Allen’s ability to make critical plays, stating, “You guys know that. I trust him and I believe in him.” As the game progressed, Allen also connected with Samuel for another touchdown during Buffalo’s next possession, capping a stellar performance that set multiple franchise records. Cook’s 100-yard rushing game made him the first Bill to achieve this feat in a playoff game since legendary Thurman Thomas in 1995, while Allen’s playoff total reached an impressive 23 passing touchdowns, surpassing Hall of Famer Jim Kelly’s previous franchise record of 21.
Next up, the Broncos will begin their offseason preparations, while the Bills get ready to host the Ravens, in a clash between two quarterbacks chosen in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft.
