The Buffalo Bills are heading into this game very healthy with their final injury report showing only one injury designation. Returner Brandon Codrington is dealing with a hamstring injury and is listed as questionable. There’s a lot to be excited about this weekend as a Bills fan.
These are two great teams facing off, and Buffalo will be tested early in the playoffs. Buffalo fans should have very little to be worried about heading into this game. However, fans should watch for a few things during the game, so let’s dive into several concerns they should have about this matchup.
How can they avoid targeting Pat Surtain Jr?
Buffalo doesn’t have a true No.1 receiver, which might bode well in this instance. However, with Keon Coleman and Amari Cooper as the starting boundary receivers, it could be Surtain Island on Sunday. Buffalo will rely on slot receiver Khalil Shakir and the tight ends quite a bit in this matchup.
They haven’t used their tight ends much this season, so why start now? Well, Denver's safeties haven’t been terrific this season, and there’s not much to show from their linebackers in coverage. Whoever is being guarded by Surtain will have a quiet day, with Josh Allen leaning more on their tall weapons.
How will the weather play a factor in the passing attack?
With a cold 32 degrees and snow predicted for Sunday, Buffalo may have a hard time beating Denver through the air. Running backs James Cook and Ty Johnson could see an extended workload from their usual usage, and we could see more of Josh Allen using his legs. Buffalo will have to find unique ways to beat the Broncos' stout defense in the cold weather, and utilizing the ground game will be a key factor in the Bills’ victory.
How will the pass-blocking hold up?
The Bills' protection of Josh Allen has been tremendous, with Allen only being sacked 14 times. However, defensive coordinator Vance Joseph’s pass rush has been outstanding, with Jonathon Cooper and Nik Bonitto combining for 24 sacks and 44 quarterback hits. This will be a battle of two elite units, and could very well determine the outcome of this game.
The Broncos rank 1st in the NFL in sacks with 63, according to Fox Sports. Allen and the offense will need to get the ball out quickly, and this could be a game where we see Buffalo call a lot of quick developing plays, and get guys like James Cook utilized more than they typically will.