The upcoming clash between the Buffalo Bills and the Denver Broncos is set to take place under frigid conditions, marking the coldest game of the season for the Broncos. While one might assume that playing in their home city of Denver would confer an advantage due to the chilly weather, this time the tables may be turned. The Buffalo Bills are well-acquainted with low temperatures, and given that the Broncos have not faced such cold this season, they may find themselves at a disadvantage.
So far this year, every game the Broncos played at home began with temperatures above 60 degrees. However, this streak will come to an end this Saturday, as the kickoff is expected to occur with temperatures hovering in the high 30s, nearing 40 degrees. As the game progresses, these temperatures could even dip into the 20s, presenting a significant challenge for both teams.
Interestingly, the coldest kickoff temperature the Broncos have faced this season was back in late November during a matchup in Washington, D.C., where it was a balmy 40 degrees for a Sunday night game. That contest went into overtime, with the Broncos narrowly defeating the Commanders, who were then quarterbacked by Marcus Mariota, following a failed two-point conversion attempt.
Buffalo's quarterback, Josh Allen, has expressed that, in his opinion, wind is more concerning than cold temperatures. Fortunately for him and the team, Saturday’s forecast indicates minimal wind and dry conditions, which could play to their favor.
Practicing at their facility in Orchard Park, the Bills have been acclimatizing to the cold, as temperatures have remained below freezing throughout the week. While the team usually conducts most of their practice sessions indoors, they do venture outside occasionally to prepare for the elements they might face during games.
Stay tuned for updates later this week when we’ll have a clearer picture of the weather situation leading up to the game.
Beyond this matchup, another significant weather story to watch this weekend is the Los Angeles Rams traveling to Chicago for a Sunday night showdown against the Bears. This game promises to be the Rams’ coldest of the season, with wind chills dropping into negative territory, adding yet another layer of intensity to an already critical playoff atmosphere.
