The Buffalo Bills’ season came to an end one week ago, following their loss in the AFC Championship Game. The team had hoped to make it to the NFL’s final four for the second consecutive year, but they fell short against the Denver Broncos in overtime during divisional round play on January 17. The Broncos won the game with a score of 33-30, securing their spot in the upcoming conference title match.

With this victory, the No. 1 seed Broncos advanced to the championship tilt on January 25. Just a day later, the No. 2 seed New England Patriots defeated the Houston Texans, earning their place in the AFC Championship Game against the Broncos. The winner of that game will earn a spot in Super Bowl LX.

Controversy played a significant role in the outcome of the game. As the next score would determine the winner, Bills quarterback Josh Allen appeared to connect with wide receiver Brandin Cooks on a long completion deep into Broncos territory. Cooks managed to secure the ball and bring it into his mid-section while seemingly being touched down by contact. However, Broncos defensive back Ja’Quan McMillian was able to rip the ball away as Cooks rolled forward. The play was ruled an interception, allowing Denver to drive for the game-winning score.

This controversial call led to significant backlash from the Bills’ fanbase and players alike. Brandin Cooks even echoed the sentiments of the Bills’ owner, calling the decision a “bad call” that ultimately ended the team’s season.

In the aftermath of the devastating playoff loss, the Bills made a major change by firing head coach Sean McDermott after nine years at the helm. Despite eight playoff appearances during his tenure, the team never advanced to the Super Bowl and only reached the AFC Championship Game twice.

Bills’ AFC Championship Game history

The Buffalo Bills have played for the AFC title seven times since the NFL-AFL merger, with a record of 4-3. Their history includes several notable games:

• 2024: Chiefs 32, Bills 29 (Kansas City, MO)
• 2020: Chiefs 38, Bills 24 (Kansas City, MO)
• 1993: Bills 30, Chiefs 13 (Orchard Park, NY)
• 1992: Bills 29, Dolphins 10 (Miami, FL)
• 1991: Bills 10, Broncos 7 (Orchard Park, NY)
• 1990: Bills 51, Raiders 3 (Orchard Park, NY)
• 1988: Bengals 21, Bills 10 (Cincinnati, OH)
• 1966: Chiefs 31, Bills 7 (Buffalo, NY)*
• 1965: Bills 23, Chargers 0 (San Diego, CA)*

• 1964: Bills 20, Chargers 7 (Buffalo, NY)*

• • AFL Championship Game

The team’s journey to the AFC Championship Game has been marked by both triumphs and heartbreaks. Despite their efforts, the Bills have yet to secure a Super Bowl appearance, which remains a key goal for the franchise.

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