Buffalo managed to win the Wild-Card, but they’re entering the Divisional round with their backs against the wall. Facing the AFC’s top-seeded Denver Broncos already brings a daunting challenge, as the Bills are already short of offensive weapons. And Denver boasts a historic defense that finished among the top-ranked in total defense, rushing defense, scoring defense, red zone defense, and third-down defense. But Josh Allen highlighted another edge that Denver has. 

“Physically, it’s going to challenge you,” admitted Allen. “The best thing that we can do, though, is not really talk about it, not really think about it, and not make it a problem. Just going out there and doing our job and get on the sideline, getting some oxygen if you need it.” 

The reigning NFL MVP was referring to Denver’s infamous Empower Field at Mile High (known as The New Mile High). Having a 5,280-foot elevation, the thin air makes breathing a manual chore for visiting athletes. As the body struggles to get enough oxygen to the muscles, players often feel a sense of gasping for air.

The reason it’s an advantage is that the Broncos are acclimated to the attitude. But their visiting opponents in the Divisional round are accustomed to playing at sea level in Buffalo. Denver’s home-field advantage is backed by more than just science; the numbers tell a story of dominance. 

Since Empower Field opened in 2001, the Broncos have maintained an astonishing regular-season home record of 128-75. In the postseason, they hold another winning record of 6-3 at the stadium. This season alone, Denver holds an 8-1 record at home. 

Allen is well aware of how it gives the home team an edge based on his time in Wyoming. That’s even higher: 7,220 foot elevation. 

“I know from firsthand experience [that] it is an advantage,” the quarterback added. “But to have that mindset of understanding that it’s going to be tough. We got to fight through it.”

Perhaps that can be a secret weapon for Buffalo, as it can fade the physiological effect of the thin air. But that’s not the only concern they have. Head coach Sean McDermott has deep concern about the upcoming playoff clash regarding his quarterback’s health, noting that Allen is “certainly sore” after a physical Wild Card win. 

The receiving corps is already crooked. Gabe Davis is out for the season with a torn ACL, and both Joshua Palmer and Curtis Samuel have been moved to injured reserve recently. 

The most recent blow came Tuesday with the confirmation that Tyrell Shavers also suffered a torn ACL. He was in the middle of a breakout season, recording a career-high 245 yards and proving himself as a reliable target for Allen. Without him, the Bills are down to a skeleton crew of pass-catchers. 

While Buffalo is losing players, Denver appears to be getting healthier. Head coach Sean Payton indicated that “most everyone” should be available for the Saturday showdown, including Dre Greenlaw. If they reach the Super Bowl, Brandon Jones and J.K. Dobbins are also expected to return. 

With all these consideration factors, Buffalo doesn’t stand a chance without Allen commanding the reins. Luckily, he has a positive update. 

Josh Allen’s health status

Even though head coach McDermott is concerned, Allen’s status for the upcoming game isn’t a big question mark. 

“I feel good,” Allen updated. “Honestly, I feel better than I have the last few weeks. I know it’s a Tuesday for us, but on a Wednesday type mindset. So I feel good.”

After being evaluated for a concussion, a bleeding ear, and injuries to his foot, knee, and throwing hand during the win over Jacksonville, he was a limited participant in practice. Despite the injury scare, he finished with 273 passing yards and three total touchdowns, proving he can still produce while battered.

The Bills have now reached the divisional round for six consecutive years, but to move past a dominant Denver team in the thin mountain air, Allen will need to elevate his plan. Bring back his old Wyoming days that got him selected as the seventh overall pick in 2018.