Saturday, January 17, 2026 — AFC Divisional Round
DENVER — The Denver Broncos advanced to the AFC Championship Game for the first time in a decade after a dramatic 33–30 overtime victory against the Buffalo Bills at Empower Field at Mile High. The game, filled with momentum swings and costly turnovers, lived up to its billing as one of the most memorable playoff matchups of the 2026 NFL postseason.
Denver’s win was capped by a 23-yard field goal by Wil Lutz in overtime, after a tense extra-session possession. The victory sends the top-seeded Broncos deeper into the playoffs and sets up a marquee matchup next week in the AFC title game.
Back-and-Forth From the Start
The Bills opened the scoring, but Denver quickly responded with a 28-yard field goal by Lutz that tied the game at 3 early. Both teams traded blows through the first half, with robust defensive stands and big plays defining the first two quarters.
Denver took control in the second quarter with 17 unanswered points, including field goals and a touchdown drive that gave the Broncos a 20–10 lead at halftime. The Broncos’ offense, led by quarterback Bo Nix, balanced both the pass and the run to keep Buffalo’s defense off balance.
Bills Rally in Second Half
The Bills refused to fade, with quarterback Josh Allen engineering multiple scoring drives in the second half. Buffalo’s offense, which had struggled somewhat earlier, found a rhythm through a mix of explosive throws and tough runs from running back James Cook. The Bills chipped away and tied the game late in regulation, sending it into overtime.
Allen finished the game with impressive numbers, but the Bills were hampered by multiple turnovers, including costly fumbles that helped Denver maintain the edge throughout the second half.
Overtime and Game-Winning Kick
In overtime, Denver’s defense forced a key turnover and helped set up the game-winning field goal. Lutz’s 23-yard kick split the uprights, sealing a hard-fought win and ending Buffalo’s playoff run. The final was Broncos 33, Bills 30 in a matchup that came down to the final kick of the night.
Mixed Emotions in Victory
Despite the thrilling outcome, the Broncos’ celebration was tempered by the loss of Bo Nix, who suffered a season-ending ankle fracture during the game. Head coach Sean Payton confirmed that Nix will undergo surgery and be sidelined for the remainder of the postseason, handing the keys to backup Jarrett Stidham for the AFC Championship.
Payton praised Nix’s leadership and performance, highlighting his pivotal role in guiding Denver through multiple comebacks this season. Still, the injury casts uncertainty over the Broncos’ quarterback situation as they prepare for their next playoff challenge.
Bills Fall Short Despite Strong Fight
For the Bills, the loss continues a difficult playoff narrative, marked by untimely turnovers and missed opportunities. Allen’s emotional reaction after the game drew headlines, as the reigning league MVP lamented the outcome in post-game comments.
Buffalo’s season ends with a 13–6 record, while questions about execution in high-stakes moments will dominate offseason discussions for the franchise.
What’s Next
The Broncos will host the winner of Sunday’s AFC Divisional clash between the Houston Texans and the New England Patriots in the AFC Championship Game, vying for a spot in Super Bowl LX. With a dramatic win and new quarterback challenges ahead, Denver’s postseason story remains compelling heading into the conference title stage.