Three Takeaways From The Broncos Divisional Round Win

The Denver Broncos had a hard-fought playoff battle against the Buffalo Bills on Saturday. They won 33-30 in overtime. They now set their sights on playing in the AFC Championship Game.

Here are three takeaways from the Broncos’ breathtaking divisional-round win, with more detail on where they stand as they inch closer to the Super Bowl.

The Broncos’ defense is capable of overcoming adversity

Denver’s defense allowed 466 total yards but forced turnovers that ultimately kept the Broncos in the game. The Broncos ended the game with five turnovers. 

Buffalo made big plays with Josh Allen and James Cook, but Denver never lost hope. Nik Bonitto delivered a huge performance, forcing two fumbles on Allen, further proving why he should have made this season’s All-Pro team. 

Linebacker Alex Singleton also made a big play for the Broncos, as it looked like the Bills were going to drive down the field. Singleton made a great tackle and forced Cook to cough up the football. 

Allen found success running at times, but Denver sacked him three times and forced him into interceptions by safety P.J. Locke and cornerback Ja’Quan McMillian. 

Locke intercepted Allen shortly after Deone Walker picked off Bo Nix, stopping Buffalo from expanding its lead. The defense had its back against the wall, but never quitIn overtime, Buffalo looked ready to drive down the field after Denver failed to score on its first possession, but McMillian had a crazy interception. Brandin Cooks tried to make a catch that could have put the Bills in field goal range, but McMillian ripped the ball away before he could secure it.

No matter what challenges the Broncos’ defense faced and how many times they got punched in the mouth on Saturday, they made sure to do whatever it took to make it easier for the offense to get back on the field and score points.

Marvin Mims Jr. is one of the team’s best wide receivers

Marvin Mims Jr. led the Broncos in receiving yards, catching 8 receptions for 93 yards and a touchdown. Even though it marked his best game of the season, Mims Jr. has always been a playmaker since he arrived in Denver.

He hasn’t regressed, but the Broncos haven’t maximized his potential. Mims Jr. didn’t heat up until injuries sidelined Pat Bryant and Troy Franklin.

Mims Jr. filled many roles as he further proved he’s always been more than a special teams player. Courtland Sutton struggled and couldn’t get on the same page with Nix while also having multiple drops, but Mims Jr. was the target Nix trusted the most. 

If the Broncos want to continue their success on offense, they must continue using Mims Jr., whether the receiving corps is fully healthy or not, for the AFC Championship Game, since he’s so skilled at making spectacular plays.