It is finally here. The tension in Buffalo is thick enough to cut with a dull steak knife as the city collectively holds its breath. If you’ve spent the morning frantically asking what channel is the Bills game on or what time the kickoff actually is, you aren't alone. Today, Saturday, January 17, 2026, the Buffalo Bills (13-5) are officially in Denver to take on the top-seeded Broncos (14-3). This isn't just another game. It’s the AFC Divisional Round, and for a No. 6 seed like Buffalo, the stakes couldn't be higher.
Where to Watch and Kickoff Times
Basically, you need to be in front of a screen by 4:30 p.m. ET. That is the hard start time. If you’re living out West or following the Denver feed, that translates to 2:30 p.m. MT. Empower Field at Mile High is going to be loud, cold, and probably a nightmare for anyone’s lung capacity.
The national broadcast is handled by CBS. This is the "A-Team" setup. You’re getting Jim Nantz on play-by-play, Tony Romo providing the color commentary, and Tracy Wolfson reporting from the sidelines. Honestly, Romo’s insights on Josh Allen's pre-snap adjustments are usually worth the price of admission alone.
If you’ve ditched cable, don't panic. You have options. Paramount+ will be streaming the game live for subscribers. If you’re on the go, the NFL+ app carries the game on mobile devices, though it’s usually restricted to phones and tablets. For the international fans or those using NFL Game Pass via DAZN, the stream should be global.
Why This Matchup is Kinda Terrifying
Denver isn't the No. 1 seed by accident. They’ve been an absolute juggernaut this season, ranking first in the league in yards per play and sacks. Their defense, led by the emergence of a truly nasty secondary, is designed to swallow quarterbacks whole.
But then there’s Josh Allen.
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The Bills are coming off a gritty 27-24 win against the Jaguars in the Wild Card round. They’re playing with house money now. What’s fascinating is the statistical clash here. Buffalo has the league's top-ranked rushing attack, which sounds great until you realize Denver has the second-ranked rushing defense. Something has to give.
- The Quarterback Battle: Bo Nix vs. Josh Allen. Experience vs. the new guard.
- The Weather Factor: Denver in mid-January is unpredictable. Expect some wind.
- The Altitude: Buffalo players have been arriving early to acclimate, but the "thin air" factor in the fourth quarter is a real thing.
Local Radio for the Die-Hards
Sometimes the TV commentary is just too much. If you’d rather hear the home-town calls, the Bills Radio Network is the way to go. WGR Sports Radio 550 is the flagship in Buffalo. Chris Brown and Eric Wood have a chemistry that most national crews just can’t replicate.
If you’re driving through the Southern Tier or across Central New York, here are a few stations to keep your dial on:
- Rochester: 96.5 FM WCMF
- Syracuse: WKRL 100.9
- Albany: WTMM 104.5 The TEAM
- Binghamton: WDRE 100.5 The Drive
What Happens if They Win?
If Buffalo pulls off the upset today, they don't get to go home. Because they are the No. 6 seed, they are guaranteed to be the road team for the remainder of the playoffs.
A win today means they move on to the AFC Championship Game on Sunday, January 25. They’ll play the winner of the Texans-Patriots game. If the Patriots win, the Bills head to Foxborough. If Houston pulls the upset, it’s a trip to the Lone Star State. Either way, the road to Super Bowl LX in Santa Clara is paved with away jerseys.
Key Things to Watch For
Keep an eye on the Bills' run defense. It’s been their "Achilles' heel" all year, ranking near the bottom of the league. If Denver can establish the run early, it opens up those play-action shots that Nix loves.
Also, watch the turnover margin. Buffalo finished the season at +1, which is... okay. But in a playoff game at Mile High, one bad interception can end a season. Josh Allen needs to be "Hero Josh" without the "Sugar High Josh" mistakes.
Preparing Your Game Day
If you’re heading to a watch party or staying on the couch, make sure your tech is ready. Check your Paramount+ login now. Don't wait until 4:29 p.m. to realize you forgot your password.
Next Steps for Fans:
- Verify your local CBS affiliate signal or streaming subscription.
- Download the Buffalo Bills official app for real-time stats and highlights if you can't watch the screen.
- Set your DVR for 4:00 p.m. ET just in case the pre-game coverage has injury updates you want to catch later.
- If you're in Buffalo, remember that buildings downtown are being lit blue tonight—it's a good time for a quick drive-by to see the city's support.