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Broncos Edge Bills 33-30, Advance to AFC Championship

1/18/2026

44 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Broncos Triumph Overtime

Denver Broncos defeated the Buffalo Bills 33-30 in overtime to reach the AFC Championship.
Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix threw three touchdowns.
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen had five turnovers.
Buffalo Bills cornerback Ja'Quan McMillian intercepted a pass, which led to Denver Broncos kicker Wil Lutz's game-winning field goal.
The Broncos will face either the New England Patriots or Houston Texans in the AFC Championship.

Summary

Broncos Host Bills

The Denver Broncos host the Buffalo Bills in the 2026 NFL Divisional Round at 4:30 p.m. ET, with Denver the No. 1 seed and favorite.
The Broncos finished 14-3 and have lost only once at Mile High this season.
Analysts are divided on the outcome, as some favor the Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen's playoff experience and others highlight Denver's defense and home advantage, with betting lines near a coin flip.

History

Historical Context

The NFL merged with the AFL in 1970, creating a unified league and introducing an eight-team playoff system. This merger allowed teams like the Denver Broncos and Buffalo Bills to become fierce rivals. The inaugural playoffs culminated in Super Bowl V, where the Baltimore Colts defeated the Dallas Cowboys, marking a significant evolution in professional football's competitive landscape.

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Broncos Triumph Overtime

Denver Broncos defeated the Buffalo Bills 33-30 in overtime to reach the AFC Championship.
Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix threw three touchdowns.
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen had five turnovers.
Buffalo Bills cornerback Ja'Quan McMillian intercepted a pass, which led to Denver Broncos kicker Wil Lutz's game-winning field goal.
The Broncos will face either the New England Patriots or Houston Texans in the AFC Championship.

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