The Denver Broncos can secure the AFC's top playoff seed if the Buffalo Bills lose their upcoming game, according to the latest playoff scenario analysis. The Broncos strengthened their position with a victory over the Carolina Panthers on November 8, 2026, where wide receiver Courtland Sutton and quarterback Bo Nix connected for a touchdown at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.
The win keeps Denver in contention for the No. 1 seed in the AFC, which would guarantee home-field advantage throughout the conference playoffs. The Bills currently hold the top spot, but a loss would open the door for the Broncos to claim it, depending on other results.
SB Nation's Scotty Payne outlined the scenarios on November 9, 2026, noting that the Broncos' path to the top seed remains alive heading into the final weeks of the regular season.
