The Buffalo Bills destroyed the Denver Broncos home in Buffalo, New York, 31-7. The Bills out-rushed the Broncos 210-79 yards, which was the difference in the game. Despite the bad loss, the future is bright for the Denver Broncos, with a rookie quarterback and a boatload of salary cap room upcoming.
The Bills’ victory sets up a clash of National Football League Most Valuable Player candidates in Bills Quarterback Josh Allen and Ravens Quarterback Lamar Jackson. Has there ever been a better National Football League Divisional Playoff Round matchup at quarterback?
Bills Dominate Broncos To Set Great Matchup
The Buffalo Bills defeated the Denver Broncos at home on January 12, 2025. The Bills completely dominated the Broncos, as the latter did none of the things they needed to do to win the game. Not only did Buffalo out-rush the Broncos, but Buffalo dominated time of possession 41:43-18:17.
With the Buffalo win, there will be a rematch of Baltimore’s 35-10 defeat of Buffalo in Baltimore on September 30. This sets up a great Divisional Playoff game between two Most Valuable Player candidates in Jackson and Allen.
Buffalo’s Keys To Victory Against Baltimore
For the Bills to beat the Ravens in the second round of the playoffs they must get a big game from quarterback, and Most Valuable Player candidate Josh Allen. It would also be helpful to dominate the time of possession again and rush the ball effectively.
This game, the date and time have not been announced. As the Baltimore quarterback is a dual-threat most MVP candidate himself, it will be important for the Buffalo defense to play well. They must contain, and probably spy, Baltimore Jackson.
Buffalo’s Important Players
Allen must play up to his Most Valuable Player candidate status. Since Buffalo will have to control the clock and rush the ball, starting Running Back James Cook must have a good game. Cook had 120 yards rushing in the wild card victory over Denver. The Buffalo defense must play well and contain Baltimore quarterback Lamar Jackson. Buffalo Linebacker Matt Milano is a likely spy. Playing at home, most likely as a favorite, Buffalo must not hurt itself with penalties, turnovers, and big plays against Baltimore’s special teams.
Ravens Keys To Victory Against Bills
For Baltimore to win the Divisional Playoff game in Buffalo, they must effectively run the ball. They can do this both with Jackson and bruising Running Back Derrick Henry. Though Baltimore wants to possess the ball, it also wants to hit a few big passing plays, so all of the wide receivers must be healthy. The Baltimore defense must also play well and contain Allen. On the road, in the playoffs, Baltimore cannot hurt themselves with penalties and turnovers.
Baltimore’s Important Players
Running the ball, and controlling it, will be important for the Ravens. Both Jackson, a rushing threat at quarterback, and mammoth tailback Henry will be important. The Baltimore defense must play well and contain Allen. Like Buffalo, they should have a spy on defense. With the importance of avoiding mistakes, all players on the Baltimore Ravens roster are important.
Conclusion
The key to this game will be whether Jackson or Allen will be better at extending drives and converting short-yardage situations into first downs. Both players have been great at that this season. Aside from that, whichever team makes fewer mistakes should prevail in the marquee matchup.
