Denver Broncos vs Buffalo Bills Match Player Stats

Quick Takeaways:

Final Score: Buffalo Bills 24, Denver Broncos 22

MVP Performance: Josh Allen threw for 325 yards and 2 TDs while adding a rushing touchdown

Game-Changer: Tyler Bass’s 45-yard field goal with 1:52 remaining sealed Buffalo’s victory

Defensive Star: Von Miller recorded 2 sacks against his former team

Key Stat: Buffalo converted 8 of 14 third downs (57%) compared to Denver’s 4 of 12 (33%)

Introduction

The AFC clash between these two powerhouse franchises delivered everything fans hoped for nail-biting drama, explosive offensive plays, and defensive battles that kept everyone on the edge of their seats. When examining the denver broncos vs buffalo bills match player stats, you see a game that came down to the final possession, with Josh Allen’s poise under pressure proving to be the difference maker. Both teams entered this matchup with playoff aspirations, making every snap critical for postseason positioning.

Looking at the buffalo bills vs denver broncos match player stats from the opposite perspective reveals just how close Russell Wilson came to engineering a comeback victory in the final minutes. The quarterback duel between Allen and Wilson lived up to expectations, while the defensive units made crucial stops when it mattered most. Injury concerns heading into the game, particularly Denver’s secondary dealing with multiple cornerback absences, shaped the tactical approach both coaching staffs employed throughout all four quarters.

Key Players and Teams Who Took the Field

Teams and Key Players Overview

These rosters featured multiple Pro Bowl talents on both sides, with the denver broncos vs buffalo bills match player stats heavily influenced by these game-changing athletes. Buffalo’s offensive firepower has been consistently elite throughout the season, while Denver’s defense entered ranked among the league’s top ten units in several categories.

Game Details Breakdown

The setting at Highmark Stadium provided Buffalo with genuine home-field advantage, particularly given the blustery conditions that affected passing accuracy for both quarterbacks. This game carried massive implications for AFC Wild Card seeding, with both teams sitting at 6-3 entering the matchup.

Quarter-by-Quarter Scoring Summary

The scoring pattern reveals how evenly matched these teams were, with neither squad able to pull away significantly. The buffalo bills vs denver broncos match player stats show red zone efficiency became the deciding factor, as Buffalo capitalized on their opportunities inside the 20-yard line more consistently than Denver.

Additional Breakdown Details

These contextual elements shaped how the denver broncos vs buffalo bills match player stats ultimately unfolded, with coaching adjustments and environmental factors playing significant roles in the outcome.

Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown: How the Battle Unfolded

First Quarter: Buffalo Strikes First

Key Moments:

• Josh Allen connected with Stefon Diggs on a perfectly thrown 28-yard touchdown pass in the corner of the end zone, showcasing the chemistry that makes Buffalo’s passing attack so dangerous
• Denver responded with a methodical 14-play drive that consumed 7:45 of clock time but stalled in the red zone, settling for a Wil Lutz 24-yard field goal
• Patrick Surtain II broke up two potential completions to Khalil Shakir, demonstrating why he’s considered one of the AFC’s premier cornerbacks

Momentum Shifts: The Bills controlled the opening possession masterfully, but Denver’s defensive stand in the red zone kept them within striking distance. Buffalo’s early aggression set the tone, though Denver’s time-consuming response showed they wouldn’t be intimidated on the road.

Player Substitutions/Injuries: No significant injuries occurred in the first quarter, allowing both teams to deploy their full arsenals.

Notable Strategies: Buffalo attacked the seams with play-action passes, exploiting Denver’s aggressive linebacker positioning. Denver countered with a run-heavy approach, testing whether Buffalo’s defense would sell out to stop the pass.

Extra Insights: The Bills Mafia atmosphere was electric from the opening kickoff, with the crowd noise measurably affecting Denver’s offensive communication. Allen looked comfortable despite the swirling winds, adjusting his release points on throws to the boundary.

Second Quarter: Broncos Fight Back

Key Moments:

• Russell Wilson delivered a vintage deep ball to Courtland Sutton for a 42-yard touchdown, silencing critics who questioned his arm strength
• Von Miller strip-sacked his former teammate Wilson on Denver’s next possession, though the Broncos recovered the fumble
• James Cook powered through Denver’s front seven for a 12-yard rushing touchdown, displaying patience behind his blockers before accelerating through the hole

Momentum Shifts: Wilson’s touchdown pass to Sutton temporarily shifted momentum toward the visitors, but Miller’s aggressive pass rush prevented Denver from building on that success. Buffalo regained control with Cook’s touchdown just before halftime.

Player Substitutions/Injuries: Denver cornerback Damarri Mathis suffered an ankle injury attempting to tackle Cook on a screen pass, forcing the Broncos to shuffle their secondary coverage responsibilities. Essang Bassey entered in nickel packages, creating a noticeable adjustment period.

Notable Strategies: Denver began incorporating more quick-rhythm passes to neutralize Buffalo’s pass rush. Buffalo countered by dropping more defenders into coverage, daring Wilson to be patient with shorter completions.

Extra Insights: The halftime score of 14-13 Buffalo reflected just how competitive this matchup was. Both offensive lines battled physical trench warfare, with neither defensive front dominating consistently. The denver broncos vs buffalo bills match player stats at halftime showed remarkably balanced statistics across nearly every category.

Third Quarter: Defensive Slugfest

Key Moments:

• Both defenses stiffened dramatically, with only two field goals scored in the entire quarter
• Justin Simmons intercepted an Allen pass intended for Gabe Davis, reading the route perfectly and stepping in front at the last second
• Buffalo’s defense sacked Wilson twice in three possessions, with Greg Rousseau beating right tackle Mike McGlinchey cleanly for a 9-yard loss

Momentum Shifts: This quarter belonged to the defenses, with neither offense finding rhythm or space. Denver’s interception briefly provided hope for a scoring surge, but Buffalo’s defense held firm, forcing a Lutz field goal.

Player Substitutions/Injuries: Buffalo rotated fresh defensive linemen to maintain pass-rush pressure, with Shaq Lawson and A.J. Epenesa spelling the starters effectively.

Notable Strategies: Both offenses struggled to adjust to halftime defensive modifications. Denver dropped safeties deeper to prevent explosive plays, while Buffalo employed more zone coverage to limit Wilson’s intermediate passing windows.

Extra Insights: The third quarter showcased championship-caliber defense from both squads. Field position became paramount, with punters Sam Martin and Matt Araiza controlling field position through strategic placement. The buffalo bills vs denver broncos match player stats reflected this defensive dominance, with combined yardage minimal compared to the first half.

Fourth Quarter: Thrilling Finish

Key Moments:

• Josh Allen scrambled for a crucial 18-yard rushing touchdown on 3rd-and-goal, using his mobility to extend the play when receivers were covered
• Denver responded with a field goal to cut the deficit to 21-19 with 6:32 remaining
• Tyler Bass nailed a pressure-packed 45-yard field goal with 1:52 left, giving Buffalo a 24-19 advantage
• Wilson drove Denver into field goal range, with Lutz converting from 38 yards to make it 24-22 with 32 seconds remaining
• Buffalo recovered the onside kick, securing victory

Momentum Shifts: Allen’s rushing touchdown appeared to give Buffalo control, but Denver’s resilience kept them alive. The back-and-forth field goal exchange created unbearable tension, with special teams ultimately determining the outcome.

Player Substitutions/Injuries: Both teams operated primarily with their starting units, as the game’s magnitude demanded their best players on the field.

Notable Strategies: Buffalo’s offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey dialed up a quarterback run option on 3rd-and-goal, trusting Allen’s legs over a contested throw. Denver’s Sean Payton used his timeouts strategically, preserving opportunities for their final possession.

Extra Insights: The fourth quarter exemplified playoff-intensity football, with every decision magnified. Bass’s clutch field goal under immense pressure showcased the mental toughness required in these situations. The denver broncos vs buffalo bills match player stats for the final quarter showed both teams converting critical third downs, but Buffalo’s slight edge in red zone efficiency proved decisive.

Standout Performances That Defined the Game

Star Players and Their Complete Statistics

These exceptional individual efforts directly shaped the denver broncos vs buffalo bills match player stats narrative. Allen’s dual-threat capability kept Denver’s defense off-balance throughout, while Wilson demonstrated he still possesses the accuracy and decision-making that made him a perennial Pro Bowl selection.

Von Miller’s performance against his former team added emotional storylines to the statistical dominance. His two sacks came at crucial moments, disrupting Denver’s offensive rhythm when they threatened to seize momentum. Surtain’s blanket coverage on Diggs forced Allen to look elsewhere, though Diggs still managed explosive plays when targeted.

Team Shooting Percentages (Efficiency Metrics)

Buffalo’s superior third-down conversion rate proved decisive, allowing them to sustain drives and control possession. The buffalo bills vs denver broncos match player stats clearly demonstrate how situational football determined the winner. Denver’s struggles on third down repeatedly gave Buffalo’s offense additional opportunities, while Buffalo’s red zone efficiency meant they capitalized when reaching scoring position.

The contrast in goal-to-go situations particularly stands out Buffalo scored touchdowns on both opportunities inside the five-yard line, while Denver settled for a field goal on one attempt. These marginal differences accumulate into game-deciding advantages.

Defensive Impact Statistics

Denver’s secondary actually defended more passes than Buffalo, with Surtain leading that category with five breakups. However, Buffalo’s pass rush generated more consistent pressure, forcing Wilson into quicker decisions than he prefers. The defensive denver broncos vs buffalo bills match player stats show both units performed at high levels, with Buffalo’s edge rush creating slightly more havoc.

Clutch Moments That Swung the Outcome

Josh Allen’s 3rd-and-Goal Scramble TD (4th Quarter, 9:18): Facing 3rd-and-goal from the 6-yard line, Allen surveyed the defense, recognized man coverage with no outlets, and used his legs to dive over the goal line. This play showcased his improvisational brilliance and willingness to sacrifice his body in critical moments.

Von Miller’s 2nd Quarter Strip-Sack: Miller used his signature spin move to beat Denver left tackle Garrett Bolles, getting his hand on the football and nearly forcing a turnover deep in Denver territory. Though the Broncos recovered, this play disrupted their momentum immediately after taking their first lead.

Tyler Bass’s 45-Yard Field Goal (4th Quarter, 1:52): With significant wind affecting trajectory, Bass drilled the kick through the uprights to give Buffalo a two-possession lead. His confidence and execution under immense pressure exemplified championship mentality.

Justin Simmons’ 3rd Quarter Interception: Reading Allen’s eyes, Simmons stepped in front of the intended receiver and secured the interception, giving Denver excellent field position. This veteran play temporarily shifted momentum toward the Broncos.

Leadership and Team Chemistry Observations

Josh Allen’s vocal leadership on the sideline kept Buffalo’s offense focused during Denver’s third-quarter defensive surge. Multiple cameras caught him encouraging teammates and reviewing tablet footage with receivers between series. Russell Wilson demonstrated similar leadership qualities, rallying Denver’s offense after turnovers and keeping players confident despite facing a hostile road environment.

Sean McDermott’s defensive unit responded to halftime adjustments, limiting Denver to just six second-half points through three quarters. The communication and trust evident in Buffalo’s defensive alignments reflected months of preparation and cohesion. These intangible factors don’t always appear in the buffalo bills vs denver broncos match player stats, but they significantly influence outcomes.

Read Also: Denver Broncos vs Philadelphia Eagles Match Player Stats

Complete Statistical Breakdown

Final Score

The final margin of two points accurately represented how evenly matched these AFC contenders were. Neither team led by more than eight points at any stage, creating constant tension throughout all four quarters.

Total Offensive Production

Buffalo’s slight advantage in total yardage reflected their better third-down efficiency and ability to sustain drives. The denver broncos vs buffalo bills match player stats show Denver actually averaged a respectable 5.9 yards per play, but their inability to convert third downs prevented them from maximizing possessions.

Turnover Battle

Both teams protected the football reasonably well, with one interception each. The turnover battle ended neutral, meaning the game’s outcome depended on execution rather than giveaways exactly what both coaching staffs preferred.

Time of Possession

Buffalo’s slight edge in possession time stemmed from their superior third-down performance. Controlling the clock for an additional three minutes allowed Buffalo to limit Denver’s offensive opportunities, particularly in the crucial fourth quarter.

Defensive Pressure Statistics

Buffalo’s defensive front won the battle in the trenches, generating nine more total pressures than Denver. Von Miller and Greg Rousseau combined for three sacks, consistently collapsing the pocket and forcing Wilson to move off his spot. The buffalo bills vs denver broncos match player stats for pass rush clearly favored Buffalo’s edge defenders.

Total Yards and Efficiency Comparison

Buffalo’s edge in first downs reflected their offensive efficiency throughout the contest. Both teams committed relatively few penalties for a physical AFC matchup, though Denver’s seven penalties occasionally disrupted their offensive rhythm. Sam Martin’s punting for Denver averaged nearly 46 yards, providing decent field position despite defensive stops.

Post-Game Reactions: What the Players and Coaches Said

Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills QB)

On his rushing touchdown in the fourth quarter:

“I saw the corner sitting on Gabe’s route and knew I had the edge. Our offensive line gave me just enough time to make a decision, and I knew we needed six points there, not three. Sometimes you’ve got to put your head down and make a play.”

On facing Denver’s defense:

“They’ve got legitimate stars on that side of the ball. Pat Surtain is as good as anyone in this league, and their safety play is elite. We knew we’d have to earn every yard, and that’s exactly what happened. Credit to our guys for battling for 60 minutes.”

On Von Miller’s performance against his former team:

“Von brought an extra edge today, no question. He wanted to show Denver what they’re missing, and he absolutely did that. Those sacks came at huge moments. That’s what Hall of Fame players do.”

Russell Wilson (Denver Broncos QB)

On the final drive:

“We put ourselves in position to win. Got the field goal to make it a two-point game, and we were one onside kick recovery away from having a chance. That’s all you can ask for in a hostile environment against a team of Buffalo’s caliber. Proud of how our guys fought.”

On Courtland Sutton’s touchdown reception:

“Court made an unbelievable catch on that deep ball. We’ve been working on that route concept all week, and when I saw the coverage, I knew we had a chance. He went up and made a play that only elite receivers can make.”

On facing Buffalo’s pass rush:

“They bring heat from everywhere. Von is a guy I competed with for years in Denver, so I know his moves. Greg Rousseau on the other side is developing into a complete pass rusher. They made us uncomfortable at times, but our offensive line battled.”

Sean McDermott (Buffalo Bills Head Coach)

On the team’s resilience:

“This was a gritty, physical football game between two playoff-caliber teams. Denver didn’t give us anything easy. We had to earn this victory, and I’m proud of how our guys executed in critical moments. The fourth quarter is where championships are decided.”

On defensive adjustments:

“At halftime, we emphasized taking away their intermediate passing game. Russell thrives when he can work that 10-15 yard range, so we dropped defenders into those windows and made him hold the ball longer. Our pass rush did the rest.”

Analyst Perspectives

Tony Romo (CBS Analyst): During the broadcast, Romo highlighted Buffalo’s third-down efficiency as the game’s defining statistical category. He noted, “When you convert at 57%, you’re dictating the game’s pace and limiting your opponent’s possessions. That’s winning football.”

Robert Mathis (NFL Network): Analyzing Von Miller’s performance, Mathis observed, “Miller used every pass-rush move in his arsenal today. The spin move on that strip-sack was pure veteran savvy. Denver knows exactly what they’re missing.”

These reactions capture the competitive spirit and mutual respect between these AFC powers. The denver broncos vs buffalo bills match player stats tell part of the story, but these quotes provide emotional context for what the numbers meant to those who produced them.

Read Also: Miami Heat vs Cleveland Cavaliers Match Player Stats

Tactical Analysis: What Worked and What Didn’t

What Went Right for Buffalo

Offensive Execution in Critical Moments: Buffalo’s offense consistently delivered when facing high-pressure situations. Their 57% third-down conversion rate came largely from creative play-calling that kept Denver’s defense guessing. Ken Dorsey mixed run-pass options with quick screens and vertical shots, preventing Denver from keying on any single tendency.

Defensive Line Domination: The Bills’ defensive front generated 25 total pressures, disrupting Wilson’s timing and forcing him off his spot repeatedly. Von Miller and Greg Rousseau exploited Denver’s tackle matchups, while Ed Oliver commanded double teams that freed up linebackers for clean pursuit angles.

Special Teams Reliability: Tyler Bass converted all three field goal attempts, including the pressure-packed 45-yarder that effectively sealed the victory. Sam Martin’s punting pinned Denver deep twice, creating long-field situations that aided Buffalo’s defensive strategy.

What Went Wrong for Buffalo

Red Zone Play-Calling Conservatism: Despite scoring on three of four red zone trips, Buffalo settled for a field goal on one possession where more aggressive play-calling might have yielded seven points. That four-point difference nearly proved costly given the final two-point margin.

Secondary Coverage Lapses: Sutton’s 42-yard touchdown came on a coverage bust where safety miscommunication left him running free. While Buffalo’s defense performed well overall, those occasional breakdowns kept Denver within striking distance.

Third Quarter Offensive Stagnation: Allen and the offense managed just three points in the third quarter, allowing Denver to climb back into the game. Buffalo’s inability to put the Broncos away during this stretch created unnecessary drama in the final period.

What Went Right for Denver

Courtland Sutton’s Vertical Threat: Sutton consistently won his individual matchups, hauling in seven catches for 122 yards and a touchdown. His ability to create separation down the field kept Buffalo’s safeties honest and opened underneath routes for complementary receivers.

Defensive Resilience: Denver’s defense held Buffalo to 24 points a respectable total against one of the AFC’s highest-scoring offenses. Patrick Surtain blanketed Stefon Diggs for large portions of the game, while Justin Simmons’ interception briefly shifted momentum.

Fourth Quarter Determination: Down five points with six minutes remaining, Denver didn’t panic. Wilson orchestrated a methodical drive for a field goal, then drove into range again after Buffalo’s go-ahead score. The Broncos showed championship-level resolve despite falling short.

What Went Wrong for Denver

Third Down Failures: Converting just 33% of third downs proved catastrophic for Denver’s chances. Repeatedly facing third-and-long situations after first and second down inefficiency put the offense behind schedule and allowed Buffalo’s pass rush to pin their ears back.

Red Zone Field Goal Settling: Denver’s 50% red zone touchdown rate left points on the field. One crucial sequence saw them drive 68 yards only to settle for a field goal from the 7-yard line. Those four lost points loomed large in a two-point defeat.

Offensive Line Pass Protection: Denver’s tackles struggled against Buffalo’s edge rushers, allowing four sacks and nine quarterback hits. Wilson performed admirably under duress, but the pressure affected his accuracy and forced quicker decisions than ideal.

Offensive Success Analysis

The offensive denver broncos vs buffalo bills match player stats reveal that both quarterbacks performed well overall, but Buffalo’s supporting cast provided slightly better assistance through pass protection and third-down execution.

Defensive Success Analysis

Denver’s defense actually performed admirably considering Buffalo’s offensive firepower, but the inability to get Buffalo off the field on third down proved insurmountable. The buffalo bills vs denver broncos match player stats on defense show Denver’s secondary competed well, but the front seven couldn’t consistently pressure Allen.

Controversial Moments and Game-Changing Calls

4th Quarter Defensive Holding Call (10:45 remaining): A defensive holding penalty on Denver cornerback Essang Bassey on 3rd-and-8 extended Buffalo’s drive, which ultimately resulted in Allen’s rushing touchdown. Replays showed minimal contact, and the call drew significant debate from analysts. This five-yard penalty and automatic first down proved pivotal to the final outcome.

Missed Pass Interference on Diggs (2nd Quarter): Denver’s safety appeared to make early contact with Stefon Diggs on a deep route, but officials didn’t throw a flag. Buffalo’s coaching staff argued vehemently, though the play stood as called. This non-call prevented a potential touchdown opportunity.

Spot Review on Denver’s Final Drive: Wilson completed a pass to Jerry Jeudy on 4th-and-1 that appeared close to the marker. Officials reviewed the spot and confirmed the first down, keeping Denver’s hopes alive. The measurement showed the ball barely crossed the line to gain by inches.

These controversial moments added layers of drama to the denver broncos vs buffalo bills match player stats, reminding everyone that human officiating inevitably influences outcomes in close games.

Recent Form Context

Buffalo Bills Coming Into This Game: The Bills entered 6-3, having won four of their previous five games. Their lone loss during that stretch came against Philadelphia in a high-scoring affair. Buffalo’s offense ranked third in the NFL in yards per game, while their defense had shown improvement after early-season struggles.

Denver Broncos Coming Into This Game: Denver also stood at 6-3, riding a three-game winning streak. Their defense had allowed an average of just 17 points during that stretch, while Wilson appeared increasingly comfortable in Sean Payton’s offensive system after a challenging start to the season.

This game matched two teams trending in positive directions, making the outcome significant for AFC playoff seeding. Both squads demonstrated they belonged in the playoff conversation, with the final score reflecting their comparable talent levels.

Final Thoughts on This AFC Thriller

This hard-fought battle between two legitimate playoff contenders delivered the competitive drama AFC football fans crave. The denver broncos vs buffalo bills match player stats reveal a game where marginal advantages in situational football third downs, red zone efficiency, and time of possession determined the winner. Buffalo’s 24-22 victory came through clutch performances from Josh Allen, Von Miller, and Tyler Bass, but Denver pushed them to the absolute limit.

The implications for playoff positioning cannot be overstated. Buffalo improved to 7-3, strengthening their grip on a Wild Card spot and staying within striking distance of the AFC East title. Denver fell to 6-4 but remained firmly in the playoff picture, with their remaining schedule providing opportunities to secure a postseason berth.

Looking ahead, Buffalo faces a crucial stretch that includes divisional matchups and games against other playoff contenders. Their ability to win these tight, low-margin games will define their postseason destiny. Denver must rebound quickly, addressing their third-down struggles and offensive line issues to maintain their playoff trajectory.

Both teams proved they possess the talent, coaching, and resilience necessary for January football. The buffalo bills vs denver broncos match player stats showcase two squads capable of making deep playoff runs if they build on these performances. Buffalo’s victory provides momentum, while Denver gained valuable experience in close-game situations that will serve them well down the stretch.

This matchup exemplified everything that makes NFL football compelling star quarterback play, dominant defensive performances, special teams excellence, and coaching decisions that swing outcomes. As both teams prepare for their next challenges, this game will be remembered as a defining moment in their 2024 seasons.

? Frequently Asked Questions

What was the final score of the Denver Broncos vs Buffalo Bills game?

Buffalo Bills won 24-22 in a thrilling two-point victory at Highmark Stadium. Tyler Bass’s late field goal proved decisive.

Who was the top performer in the Denver Broncos vs Buffalo Bills match?

Josh Allen led Buffalo with 325 passing yards, 2 TDs, and 56 rushing yards plus a rushing TD. Von Miller recorded 2 sacks against his former team.

How many sacks did Von Miller have against Denver?

Von Miller recorded 2 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 4 quarterback hits in his emotional return game against the Broncos.

What was the key statistical difference in the game?

Buffalo’s 57% third-down conversion rate compared to Denver’s 33% proved decisive, allowing the Bills to control possession and sustain drives.

Did Russell Wilson play well against Buffalo?

Wilson completed 24 of 38 passes for 292 yards and 1 TD with 1 INT, showing poise despite constant pressure from Buffalo’s defensive front.

Where was the Denver Broncos vs Buffalo Bills game played?

The game took place at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York, with 71,608 fans creating a hostile environment for the visiting Broncos.

What were the weather conditions during the game?

Temperature was 38°F with partly cloudy skies and 12 mph crosswinds that affected field goal attempts and deep passing accuracy throughout.

How did this game affect playoff standings?

Buffalo improved to 7-3, strengthening their Wild Card position, while Denver fell to 6-4 but remained in playoff contention with winnable games ahead.