Denver’s penalty troubles might play right into Josh Allen and Buffalo’s hands in AFC Divisional round

The Denver Broncos are set to host the Buffalo Bills in the NFL Divisional round, marking a critical step in their pursuit of a return to the Super Bowl. After a season of ups and downs, Denver’s defense will be under the microscope against Josh Allen and a Bills offense capable of exploiting even the smallest weaknesses. Every mistake could be magnified in a playoff atmosphere.Buffalo enters Denver without a true number one wide receiver, yet their versatile receiving corps, combined with Allen’s playmaking and James Cook III’s rushing threat, poses a unique challenge. For the Broncos, the key may come down to discipline in the secondary, an area that has been problematic this season.Denver’s defensive backfield has been flagged for more defensive pass interference (DPI) penalties than any other team this season. According to ESPN’s Kevin Seifert, the Broncos were penalized 20 times for DPI, with cornerback Riley Moss responsible for eight alone. These infractions cost Denver 350 yards over the regular season, averaging more than one DPI per game, a margin that can shift the balance in high-stakes playoff action.With Buffalo’s receiving group featuring the fast Brandin Cooks, the quick and elusive Khalil Shakir in the slot, and the strong, physical Keon Coleman, the Broncos cannot focus on stopping just one player. The presence of tight ends Dalton Kincaid and Dawson Knox further complicates this. A single DPI in the wrong spot could translate into a critical first down or scoring opportunity.For Denver, the margin for error is slim. Riley Moss’s penalty tendencies and the team’s aggressive style will need adjustment under the playoff spotlight. Sean Payton and defensive coordinator Vance Joseph must make sure the Broncos play disciplined football, especially in coverage, to avoid giving up easy yards from DPI penalties.Ultimately, it may come down to how few mistakes Denver makes. The Bills are good at capitalizing on even the slightest mistakes, and in a game where every yard is going to be important, being called for numerous penalties could give Buffalo an enormous advantage. This game will test Denver's physical strength, as well as their focus and discipline in pass defense.