The AFC divisional round game between the Denver Broncos and the Buffalo Bills kicked off with a whirlwind of momentum shifts, confusion, and an immediate injury scare involving Denver’s key defensive player. Just two plays into the postseason, Pat Surtain II, the reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year who inked a record-breaking contract with the Broncos in 2024, suffered an injury. The incident sent shockwaves through Empower Field and the Broncos’ bench.

This significant setback occurred after the game had already been paused and cut to a commercial break just four seconds in due to another alarming event. Buffalo didn’t hesitate to challenge Denver, with James Cook breaking away for a 24-yard run on the Bills’ first offensive play. On the subsequent snap, Cook added another 10 yards, ending the run by driving his shoulder into Surtain as the cornerback moved in for the tackle.

The impact sent Surtain reeling backward as safety Talanoa Hufanga came in to assist in completing the play. Surtain remained down briefly before slowly getting up and removing his helmet as he walked towards the blue medical tent accompanied by trainers. CBS commentator Jim Nantz encapsulated the worry during the broadcast, stating, “It does not look good.”

The Broncos were already feeling the heat as Buffalo’s offense came out strong, relying on Cook to set the pace while Josh Allen made plays with his mobility. With Surtain sidelined, Denver’s defensive depth was immediately put to the test as Buffalo kept advancing into Broncos territory. Surtain’s recent injury history added to the concern. He had missed three games earlier in the season due to a partially torn pectoral muscle, and seemed to be favoring his right arm as he headed for the medical tent.

His absence, even if temporary, was a significant blow for a Denver defense that relies heavily on his ability to neutralize top-tier receivers and dictate coverage schemes. Despite the initial setback, the Broncos managed to regroup, with Surtain returning to the field later during the same drive. The first quarter was chaotic for both teams.

Denver’s offense made some progress but left points on the table, settling for a Will Lutz field goal after Lil’Jordan Humphrey dropped a potential touchdown in the end zone. Buffalo struck back late in the quarter with a touchdown pass from Allen to Mecole Hardman, briefly capitalizing on a coverage lapse to take a 7–3 lead.

The game grew more physical as it progressed. Buffalo lost linebacker Dorian Williams to a neck injury on the opening kickoff, while Denver had to deal with multiple injury assessments among its receiving corps. The Broncos took control in the second quarter when linebacker Alex Singleton caused a fumble on Cook, which Hufanga scooped up, turning the tide of the game.

Denver seized the opportunity, with quarterback Bo Nix orchestrating scoring drives that featured a brief touchdown pass to offensive lineman Frank Crum and a late hit to Lil’Jordan Humphrey before halftime. An unusual Josh Allen fumble on the Bills’ last possession of the half gave Denver the chance to tack on a long field goal, putting the Broncos ahead 20–10 at halftime.