The Buffalo Bills vs Denver Broncos match player stats from the AFC Divisional Round on January 17, 2026 highlight a thrilling, back-and-forth playoff battle that ended with the Broncos defeating the Bills 33–30 in overtime. This deep-dive article breaks down the essential individual performances, statistical leaders, and decisive contributions from both teams in one of the most exciting games of this NFL postseason.
Table of Contents
Opening Overview: Bills vs Broncos Match Player Stats
The Buffalo Bills vs Denver Broncos match player stats tell the story of a high-stakes thriller in Denver, Colorado, where the Broncos edged the Bills 33–30 in overtime. Both offenses produced big numbers, but turnovers and critical plays tipped the balance late. Quarterbacks Josh Allen and Bo Nix were central to their teams’ efforts, while key offensive and defensive units shaped the final outcome.
Quarterback Showdowns: Allen vs Nix
Josh Allen — Buffalo Bills
- Passed for 283 yards with 3 touchdowns.
- Rushed for 66 yards, adding a dynamic element to the Bills’ offense.
- Committed key turnovers, including two interceptions and two fumbles, which significantly influenced the game flow.
- Despite the miscues, Allen’s statistical output was among the top performances of the night.
Bo Nix — Denver Broncos
- Threw for 279 yards and 3 touchdowns, anchoring Denver’s potent scoring drives.
- Used his mobility and decision-making to extend plays and convert critical downs.
- Led the final drive in overtime that set up the game-winning field goal.
- Nix’s efficiency and leadership were crucial to the Broncos advancing to the AFC Championship.
Top Offensive Contributors Beyond the QBs
Bills Offensive Leaders
- Dalton Kincaid: A major target with a key receiving touchdown that helped Buffalo stay competitive late.
- Keon Coleman: Added a scoring reception that contributed to Buffalo’s rally in regulation.
- James Cook: Had significant rushing yardage and was a focus of the Bills’ attack, although he also lost a fumble that shifted momentum.
Broncos Offensive Standouts
- Marvin Mims Jr.: Caught a 26-yard touchdown late in the fourth quarter to bring Denver within reach.
- Frank Crum: A memorable performance against the Bills, scoring a rare offensive touchdown for an offensive tackle on a trick-play pass from Nix.
- Lil’Jordan Humphrey: Contributed a touchdown reception to help Denver build an early lead.
Defensive Plays That Impacted Player Stats
Bill Defensive Efforts
- Buffalo’s defense applied pressure and created opportunities but ultimately couldn’t contain Denver’s offense in key situations.
- Forced a number of third-down stops earlier in the game to give their offense more chances.
Broncos Defensive Highlights
- Denver’s defense forced multiple turnovers, including interceptions and fumbles, that directly led to scoring opportunities.
- A notable interception by Ja’Quan McMillian in overtime turned the tide and allowed Denver to set up the winning field goal.
Special Teams Impact
- The kicking game was decisive in this matchup. Matt Prater’s 50-yard field goal tied the game at the end of regulation to force overtime.
- In overtime, Wil Lutz’s 23-yard game-winner sealed Denver’s victory and ended Buffalo’s playoff run.
Buffalo Bills vs Denver Broncos Match Player Stats Table
| Category | Player | Team | Stat Line |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passing Yards | Josh Allen | Bills | 283 yards |
| Passing TDs | Josh Allen | Bills | 3 TDs |
| Interceptions | Josh Allen | Bills | 2 INTs |
| Rushing Yards | Josh Allen | Bills | 66 yards |
| Passing Yards | Bo Nix | Broncos | 279 yards |
| Passing TDs | Bo Nix | Broncos | 3 TDs |
| Receiving TD | Dalton Kincaid | Bills | 1 TD |
| Receiving TD | Keon Coleman | Bills | 1 TD |
| Receiving TD | Marvin Mims Jr. | Broncos | 1 TD |
| Unusual TD | Frank Crum | Broncos | 1 TD (offense) |
| Game-Tying FG | Matt Prater | Bills | 50 yards |
| Game-Winning FG | Wil Lutz | Broncos | 23 yards |
Momentum Shifts and Key Moments
- Denver struck early with a balanced attack, forcing Buffalo to play catch-up.
- Buffalo responded with a strong second half, taking the lead with multiple touchdown drives.
- Late in regulation, Prater’s long field goal kept the Bills alive and sent the game into overtime.
- In overtime, Denver’s defense delivered a crucial take-away, and penalties against Buffalo put the Broncos in position for the winning kick.
Player Evaluations After the Game
Bills
- Allen’s stat line was impressive overall, but turnovers loomed large in the narrative of this game’s result.
- Buffalo’s skill players made significant contributions, but key missteps stalled momentum at critical junctures.
Broncos
- Bo Nix maximized his opportunities, earning MVP-caliber recognition for his performance.
- Denver’s playmakers capitalized on chances and kept the offense consistently productive.
- The defense and special teams executed in clutch moments to secure the win.
What This Means Moving Forward
The Buffalo Bills vs Denver Broncos match player stats reveal a classic playoff duel where momentum swings, turnovers, and clutch plays defined the outcome. Denver advances to the AFC Championship, powered by balanced performances from Nix, his receivers, and a opportunistic defense. Buffalo’s offensive firepower was evident, but costly mistakes ultimately ended their season.
This thrilling Bills vs Broncos showdown added another dramatic chapter to NFL playoff history — let us know which player stood out most in this epic matchup!
