The Denver Broncos concluded their season with a disappointing 31-7 defeat against the Buffalo Bills in the AFC Wildcard Round. Despite a promising start, Denver's performance faltered in the second half, unable to keep pace with the Bills' dominance. Time of possession woes, a lackluster ground game, and a defensive collapse contributed to the Broncos' playoff exit.
Key players emerged, including quarterback Bo Nix, who showcased his talent with a 43-yard touchdown pass in the first half, finishing with solid stats despite a second-half decline. Head coach Sean Payton's aggressive play-calling, including a fake punt, provided a brief spark. Zach Allen stood out defensively with significant tackles and a sack, while the team displayed resilience by limiting the Bills' scoring opportunities in the red zone during the first half.
However, several players struggled, notably wide receiver Courtland Sutton, whose critical drop hindered offensive momentum. The running backs collectively produced just 36 yards, and kicker Wil Lutz's missed field goal before halftime further hampered Denver's chances. The Broncos' defensive line was overwhelmed, allowing the Bills to dominate the ground game.
