Bills vs Broncos Divisional Round: Can Josh Allen Overcome Receiver Injuries?

The Buffalo Bills enter the AFC Divisional Round after a gritty wild-card win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. Josh Allen once again led the charge, guiding Buffalo through late fourth-quarter touchdown drives that sealed the victory. Veteran wide receiver Brandin Cooks played a key role, highlighted by a crucial 36-yard reception that set up the game-winning score. Despite offensive struggles earlier in the game, the Bills found a way to win when it mattered most.

Injuries Shake Up Buffalo’s Receiving Corps

Buffalo’s victory came at a heavy cost. The Bills lost multiple wide receivers to season-ending injuries in Jacksonville. Gabe Davis and Tyrell Shavers both suffered torn ACLs, while Joshua Palmer had already been placed on injured reserve. In less than a week, three receivers became unavailable. These losses place even more pressure on an already thin receiver group heading into a road playoff game.

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Life After Stefon Diggs Still Brings Questions

Since trading Stefon Diggs to the Houston Texans in March 2024, Buffalo has struggled to replace a true No. 1 wide receiver. The offense broke franchise scoring records in 2024, but inconsistency at receiver remains an issue. Khalil Shakir has become Josh Allen’s most reliable target, especially from the slot. However, his production still ranks outside the league’s elite wideouts. Tight end Dalton Kincaid also serves as a primary weapon when healthy, but injuries have limited his availability.

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Keon Coleman Faces a Defining Opportunity

Former second-round pick Keon Coleman now finds himself at a crossroads. The 22-year-old has not fully clicked in Buffalo’s system due to injuries, discipline issues, and inconsistent performance. After a strong debut in Week 1 of the 2025 season, his role diminished. Coleman has been a healthy scratch multiple times, but with injuries mounting, he is expected to see a larger role against Denver. Coaches believe recent adversity has helped sharpen his focus.

Veteran Presence Matters in the Playoffs

Brandin Cooks brings valuable postseason experience to a young receiver room. Having played with quarterbacks like Tom Brady and Drew Brees, Cooks understands playoff pressure. While he has dropped several passes since joining Buffalo, his leadership and route running remain assets. Head coach Sean McDermott continues to emphasize the importance of experience as the Bills prepare for a hostile environment in Denver.

Tight Ends and Backs Fuel the Passing Game

Buffalo’s offensive identity has shifted under coordinator Joe Brady. The Bills rely heavily on tight ends and running backs in the passing game. Dalton Kincaid, Dawson Knox, and rookie Jackson Hawes all play meaningful roles. When Kincaid is active, Buffalo’s scoring average rises significantly. The Broncos’ defense has struggled to contain these positions, which could benefit Allen on Saturday.

Josh Allen’s Burden Continues to Grow

Josh Allen once again carries the offense on his shoulders. His playoff performance against Jacksonville showed toughness, leadership, and resilience. However, his tendency to extend plays has increased his sack total this season. Allen remains committed to playing through pain, holding the longest active quarterback start streak in the NFL. Against Denver’s strong defense, his ability to balance aggression with efficiency will be critical.

Broncos vs. Bills Betting Props Draw Attention

The Denver Broncos enter the matchup as the AFC’s No. 1 seed after a bye week. Betting markets slightly favor Denver at home. Prop bets highlight expectations of a run-heavy approach for Buffalo, with Josh Allen projected for fewer pass attempts. Denver quarterback Bo Nix is projected to throw multiple touchdowns, while Courtland Sutton emerges as a strong scoring candidate. These projections reflect confidence in Denver’s balanced offense.

Divisional Round Stakes Are Massive

Saturday’s matchup at Empower Field at Mile High represents a defining moment for both teams. Buffalo seeks its first Super Bowl appearance with Allen under center. Denver aims to capitalize on home-field advantage and a healthier roster. For the Bills, the question remains clear. Can Josh Allen and a depleted receiver group generate enough offense against one of the league’s best defenses?