The AFC Divisional Round playoff game between the Denver Broncos and Buffalo Bills is set for a high-stakes clash at Mile High Stadium, with both teams navigating significant injury reports and roster decisions in the lead-up. The Broncos have announced they will wear their Sunset Orange jerseys with Summit White pants for the contest, adding a visual flair to the postseason atmosphere. On the other side, the Bills’ extensive injury list has been a central storyline, with quarterback Josh Allen confirmed to play despite managing multiple ailments. The Bills’ receiving corps, already thin, faces further questions, a point not lost on Broncos players like Elijah Moore, who quipped about Buffalo’s offensive tendencies.
Injury updates dominate the pre-game narrative for both squads. The Bills’ safety Damar Hamlin, whose remarkable recovery story captivated the nation, remains sidelined and will not play against the Broncos, a significant absence in the secondary. Meanwhile, linebacker Shaq Thompson, a key piece of the Bills’ defense, is reportedly ready for Saturday after being limited in practice earlier in the week. For the Broncos, running back J.K. Dobbins appears to be ramping up his activity, offering a potential boost to the ground game. The Broncos also received positive news on an unspecified key offensive starter ahead of the divisional matchup.
The opening kickoff of the game itself brought immediate drama, as Bills linebacker Dorian Williams and Broncos returner Marvin Mims both suffered injuries on the play. Live updates tracked their statuses, casting an early shadow over the contest. The Bills’ roster management has been active, with the team activating defensive tackle Ed Oliver and wide receiver Curtis Samuel off injured reserve to bolster their lineup. Examining the full Bills roster and Broncos roster reveals the depth challenges each team is confronting in this win-or-go-home scenario.
Bills head coach Sean McDermott has had to navigate these personnel hurdles while preparing his team for a tough road playoff game. His defensive unit will rely on leaders like edge rusher Joey Bosa, who has been openly self-critical, stating he ‘needs to play much better’ in this AFC divisional playoff game. Bosa was a full participant in practice Wednesday, indicating he is physically prepared for the challenge. The Broncos’ offense, potentially featuring newly elevated wide receiver Elijah Moore and tight end Caleb Lohner, will test a Bills defense aiming to complement an offense that has won despite wide receiver challenges.
This matchup carries immense weight, with the winner advancing to the AFC Championship Game. The combination of Josh Allen’s toughness, the emotional backdrop surrounding players like Damar Hamlin, and the strategic adjustments forced by injuries on both sides sets the stage for a classic January battle in Denver. The final inactives lists for both teams will ultimately reveal who is suiting up for this critical playoff chapter at Mile High Stadium.