The Buffalo Bills (13-4) begin their long awaited postseason journey.
In the Wild Card round the Denver Broncos (10-7) will travel to Highmark Stadium for a first-round clash.
All week, topics and storylines have been discussed ahead of kickoff. In the end, regardless of what is said by players, coaches, media outlets, and fans, it always comes down to what unfolds on the field in the NFL.
And once the battle arrives, there will be a few particular things to keep in mind to look out for.
Here are five things to watch for during Sunday’s Bills-Broncos matchup:
New kid on the block
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Bo Nix is getting a lot of well-deserved credit for the Broncos cracking the postseason in 2024. The rookie quarterback burst onto the scene this year and has complemented a strong Denver defense very well.
It will be the first time Buffalo gets their chance to see one of the NFL’s top QB prospects. Like their own quarterback for the Bills, Nix can get it done with his arm and legs.
Secondary situation
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Receiver Courtland Sutton is Nix’s top target. He surpassed 1,000 yards (1,081) this season and has long been a top-tier NFL playmaker despite spotty quarterback play, at times.
Sutton and Marvin Mims Jr., will be a worry because of the inconsistent play the Bills’ secondary has seen on occasion. While cornerbacks Rasul Douglas and Christian Benford are reliable, the same cannot be said at safety. Taylor Rapp and Damar Hamlin even had a below-average outing against the New England Patriots in Buffalo’s season finale.
Trenches
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Who led the NFL with 63 sacks? Denver’s defense.
On the flip side, which offensive line allowed the fewest sacks with only 14? Buffalo’s front.
The mobility of Bills quarterback Josh Allen will come into play here, but if he can stay on his feet, it will give Buffalo a huge advantage as that takes away the Broncos’ best advantage.
Week off (ish) rust?
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Resting starters as the Bills did in their Week 18 game against the Patriots does leave one looming question: Is there any rust?
The pros of staying healthy very much outweigh the cons in that decision made by head coach Sean McDermott, but it still is something to keep in mind, especially early on against the Broncos.
Don’t overlook
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It’s not to say that the Bills have been known for doing this… they haven’t even made it to a Super Bowl, let alone won it. But Buffalo is one of two touchdown-plus favorites heading into Wild Card weekend (Baltimore Ravens). That can’t let that slip into their mind.
Speaking of some rust early on, a quick start would be ideal in more ways than one.
