Denver Broncos Game Score Today: Why the No. 1 Seed Wait Matters

Denver Broncos Game Score Today: Why the No. 1 Seed Wait Matters

The scoreboard at Empower Field at Mile High is currently dark. If you’re looking for a denver broncos game score today, you won’t find a live ticker because the Broncos are currently enjoying the ultimate regular-season prize: a first-round bye.

Honestly, it’s a weird feeling for fans in Colorado. For the first time since the 2015 season—the year Peyton Manning rode off into the sunset with a ring—the road to the Super Bowl officially runs through Denver.

The Most Recent Denver Broncos Game Score

The last time the Broncos took the field was Sunday, January 4, 2026. They absolutely dismantled the Los Angeles Chargers with a 19-3 victory.

It wasn't a high-flying offensive shootout, but it was vintage Sean Payton football. The defense was the real story. McMillian’s 45-yard interception return for a touchdown basically slammed the door shut on any hope the Chargers had. That win pushed the Broncos to a 14-3 regular-season record, clinching the AFC’s top playoff seed.

You’ve probably noticed the shift in this team. Last year, they were fighting for relevance. This year, they’re the team everyone is trying to avoid.

What’s Next: The AFC Divisional Round

Since there is no denver broncos game score today, all eyes are on Saturday, January 17, 2026.

The Buffalo Bills (13-5) are coming to town. They just took down Jacksonville in a 27-24 Wild Card thriller, and now they have to deal with the high altitude and a rested Bo Nix.

Kickoff is set for 4:30 p.m. ET (2:30 p.m. MT) on CBS.

Jim Nantz and Tony Romo will be on the call. It’s the first home playoff game in Denver in a decade. That’s a massive drought for a franchise with this much history. The energy in the city is already vibrating.

Key Matchup Details

  • Location: Empower Field at Mile High, Denver, CO.
  • The Odds: Broncos are early 1.5-point favorites.
  • The Weather: Forecast says about 42°F. Chilly, but manageable for January in the Rockies.

Why Today’s "Non-Score" Is Actually a Good Thing

In the NFL, no news is good news during Wild Card weekend.

While Josh Allen was out there taking hits against the Jaguars, Bo Nix and the rest of the Broncos were resting. Nix has been a revelation this year. He tied the NFL record for the most wins by a QB in his first two seasons (24). Basically, he’s doing exactly what Sean Payton drafted him to do: play smart, efficient, and winning football.

There’s a lot of talk about the "rust vs. rest" factor. Some people think a week off kills momentum. But look at the injury report. The Broncos are as healthy as they’ve been all year.

The defense is currently ranked second in the league in scoring. They lead the NFL in sacks and red-zone stops. If you're a Bills fan, that's a nightmare scenario to walk into after a short week of preparation.

What Most People Get Wrong About This Matchup

People keep bringing up last year’s Wild Card game where the Bills beat the Broncos 31-7.

That was a different team.

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The 2026 Broncos have a completely different identity. They aren't just relying on Patrick Surtain II to lock down half the field—though he’s still doing that at a Defensive Player of the Year level. The pass protection has improved significantly, allowing Nix to rack up 3,931 passing yards this season.

Also, Denver’s run defense is the real deal. They’re ranked second in the league. They’ll be facing James Cook, the NFL's rushing leader. It’s strength against strength.

Actionable Steps for the Divisional Round

If you're planning on following the next denver broncos game score, here is what you actually need to do to be ready for Saturday:

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  1. Check the Secondary Market Early: Tickets for the first home playoff game in 10 years are trending at record highs. If you aren't already in, expect to pay a premium.
  2. Sync Your Streaming: The game is on CBS and Paramount+. If you’re out of market, YouTube TV’s NFL Sunday Ticket is your best bet, though local blackout rules won't apply to a national playoff broadcast.
  3. Monitor the Injury Report: Keep a close eye on the status of the Bills' receiving core. Josh Allen is down to three healthy veteran wideouts, which might allow the Broncos' secondary to play even more aggressively.
  4. Arrive Early if Tailgating: Security and crowds at Mile High are expected to be at 2015 levels. Plan for at least an extra hour for entry.

The wait for the next score is almost over. By Saturday night, we'll know if the Broncos are headed to the AFC Championship or if the dream ends at home.