The anticipation is building as the Denver Broncos gear up to face off against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, NY. Scheduled for a 1:00 pm ET kickoff on Sunday, January 12, 2025, this game promises to be a thrilling encounter. Fans can catch all the action live on CBS. The stakes are high, and both teams are ready to leave it all on the field.
Season Record and Recent Form
The Denver Broncos concluded their regular season with a respectable 10-7 record, securing the 3rd place in the AFC West. Their recent form has been impressive, especially after a commanding 38-0 victory over the Kansas City Chiefs. Bo Nix, the rookie quarterback, has been a revelation, completing 26 of 29 passes for 321 yards and four touchdowns in their last outing. On the other hand, the Buffalo Bills, with a stellar 13-4 record, topped the AFC East. Despite a recent 23-16 loss to the New England Patriots, they remain a formidable force, particularly at home where they boast an 8-0 record.
Opening Odds at USA Sportsbooks
The betting lines have been set, and the Bills are favored by 8.5 points according to DraftKings and Bet365, with BetMGM offering a slightly higher spread of 9 points. The over/under is hovering around 47 to 47.5 points across these platforms. With the Bills’ strong home record and the Broncos’ recent form, bettors are in for a challenging decision.
Denver Broncos vs Buffalo Bills Preview and Analysis
The Broncos have shown resilience throughout the season, especially in their divisional games where they finished with a 3-3 record. Their defense, led by players like Nik Bonitto and Patrick Surtain II, has been solid, although they face a tough test against the Bills’ high-powered offense. The Bills, despite their recent loss, are well-rested and ready to unleash their full potential. Quarterback Josh Allen, though briefly sidelined in the last game, is expected to lead the charge with his dynamic playmaking abilities.
Broncos vs Bills Prediction
As the two teams prepare to clash, the Bills are favored to cover the spread. Their overall record of 13-4 speaks volumes about their consistency and dominance this season. While the Broncos have had a commendable run, their journey might end here against a well-rested Bills team. The prediction leans towards a Bills victory, with a projected scoreline of 34-17 in favor of Buffalo. This game is a must-watch for fans and bettors alike, as it promises high stakes and intense competition.
NFL Betting Trends
The Broncos have been impressive against the spread (ATS) as underdogs, boasting a 10-3 ATS record when the spread is between 3.5 to 9.5 points. They also perform well against top-level teams, with a 5-1 ATS record. The Bills, however, have struggled in playoff games with a 1-3 ATS record. Their performance in January games isn’t stellar either, but their overall home record and offensive prowess make them a formidable opponent.
Key Injuries
Injuries could play a pivotal role in this matchup. The Broncos have concerns with players like T. Badie (RB) and T. Franklin (WR) listed as questionable. The Bills, meanwhile, have a more extensive injury list, including key players like Josh Allen (QB) and M. Milano (LB). The availability of these players could significantly impact the game’s outcome.
Notable Quotes
Bo Nix, reflecting on the Broncos’ recent victory, said, “I learned I’ve got to run a little more during the week because that’s a long lap. I was a little tired at the end. But the fans deserve it, it’s been a long time coming.” Meanwhile, Bills’ coach Sean McDermott emphasized the importance of the playoffs, stating, “Everything is earned and there’s nothing given in the playoffs. And you’re going against the best every week, so we start with one week and really one day at a time.”
Starting Lineups
For the Broncos, the offensive lineup features WR Courtland Sutton, WR Marvin Mims Jr., and QB Bo Nix leading the charge. The Bills counter with WR Keon Coleman, WR Mack Hollins, and QB Josh Allen at the helm. Both teams have potent offensive weapons, setting the stage for a high-scoring affair.
Statistical Leaders
Bo Nix leads the Broncos in passing with 3,775 yards, while Courtland Sutton tops the receiving charts with 1,081 yards. For the Bills, Josh Allen has thrown for 3,731 yards, and James Cook has been a standout with 981 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns. These players will be crucial in determining the game’s outcome.
As the countdown to kickoff continues, fans and bettors alike are gearing up for what promises to be an unforgettable showdown. With both teams showcasing exceptional talent and determination, this game is set to be a highlight of the NFL season.
