Buffalo Bills vs Denver Broncos Tips | NFL Divisional Round

Kick-off is scheduled for 8:30am AEDT at Empower Field at Mile High, with Buffalo entering as slight 1.5-point underdogs despite holding a clear playoff edge over the Broncos in recent years. With Josh Allen at the peak of his powers and Denver leaning heavily on defence, this matchup sets up for another classic Allen-led postseason performance.

Competition: NFL Playoffs – Divisional Round

Match: Buffalo Bills at Denver Broncos

Date: Sunday, 18 January 2026

Kick-off: 8:30 AM AEDT

Venue: Empower Field at Mile High

Despite travelling to Denver as underdogs, Buffalo are well positioned to repeat last season’s playoff result and eliminate the Broncos once again. Denver boast the league’s best defence, but their offence remains limited — particularly at quarterback — and that gap looms large in playoff football. Josh Allen has consistently elevated Buffalo in big moments, and with Denver unlikely to score freely, the Bills’ ability to generate explosive plays gives them the edge outright.

Josh Allen remains Buffalo’s most dangerous red-zone weapon. He has averaged 1.3 rushing touchdowns per playoff game and was once again the difference in the Wild Card Round, scoring twice on the ground. With Denver’s defence focused on limiting Buffalo’s receivers, Allen’s legs should again play a decisive role near the goal line.

With injuries to Gabe Davis and Tyrell Shavers, Brandin Cooks is expected to see increased involvement in Buffalo’s passing game. Cooks has recorded three or more receptions in each of his last two games and profiles as a reliable chain-mover against Denver’s aggressive coverage schemes.

Denver’s defence is elite across the board — first in sacks, second in rushing defence, and top three in points allowed. However, Allen’s ability to extend plays and score with his legs often neutralises even the most disciplined units. If Allen avoids turnovers, Buffalo will control this game.