When the Denver Broncos needed a clutch performance, second-year quarterback Bo Nix delivered. After a sluggish second half that saw Denver gain just one first down on four drives and watch a 13-point lead slip away, Nix orchestrated an eight-play, 73-yard touchdown drive capped by a perfect 26-yard strike to Marvin Mims Jr. for the go-ahead score.
The game went to overtime, but Nix guided the Broncos to the game-winning field goal by Wil Lutz. Nix finished 26-of-46 for 279 yards with three touchdowns and an interception, adding 29 rushing yards on 12 carries. Unfortunately, he broke his ankle in overtime, leaving Jarrett Stidham to start in the AFC Championship Game.
The Buffalo Bills were undone by turnovers, committing five giveaways despite piling up 449 yards and 28 first downs. Josh Allen completed 25-of-39 passes for 283 yards with three touchdowns, two interceptions, and lost two fumbles, one of which led directly to six Denver points. James Cook rushed for 117 yards on 24 carries, but a crucial fumble in the first half shifted momentum to the Broncos. Buffalo’s mistakes, combined with 68 penalty yards, 53 coming on their final possession—proved costly.
Denver’s defense, led by splash plays from Ja’Quan McMillian, Alex Singleton, Nik Bonitto, and P.J. Locke, forced five turnovers despite allowing 449 yards. McMillian’s interception in overtime sealed the win after a dramatic back-and-forth. Key penalties on Buffalo in the final minutes, including two defensive pass interference calls, set up Denver in field goal range and essentially ended the Bills’ hopes.
A pivotal first-half sequence also helped swing the game. With the score tied 10-10, Nix hit Lil’Jordan Humphrey for a 29-yard touchdown, and a late Josh Allen fumble gave Denver a 10-point edge heading into halftime. Nix excelled on deep passes, going 3-of-4 for 82 yards and two touchdowns on throws traveling more than 20 yards.
Denver snapped a nine-season playoff win drought and notched their first postseason victory since Super Bowl 50, marking the franchise’s third playoff overtime win and first since the “TebowMania” wild-card game in 2011.
