Denver Gears Up for Historic Playoff Weekend Amid Power and Weather Concerns
DENVER, 17 January 2026 – The city of Denver is poised for a momentous Saturday of sport, with the Denver Broncos hosting their first National Football League (NFL) home playoff game in ten years. The divisional round clash against the Buffalo Bills is expected to generate a massive economic windfall, even as the region contends with a Red Flag weather warning and lingering frustrations over planned power outages.
Broncos Return to Home Playoff Stage
The Denver Broncos, who finished the regular season with a 14-3 record, will face the Buffalo Bills (12-5) at Empower Field at Mile High with a 14:30 kickoff on Saturday. This marks a dramatic turnaround for a franchise that was in disarray just a few years ago. The game is predicted to bring over $60 million in economic activity to the metro area, according to a report from the Metro Denver Economic Development Corporation. The mayors of Denver and Buffalo have placed a friendly wager on the outcome. Adding to the international flavour, a German baron named Lutz Freiherr Von Entress-Fursteneck has flown in from Berlin to watch Broncos kicker Wil Lutz.
Concurrent Nuggets Game and Citywide Buzz
The sporting focus is split, as the Denver Nuggets are also scheduled to play the Washington Wizards at Ball Arena on Saturday evening. Nuggets coach David Adelman, a known Bills fan, admitted he would have one eye on the football playoff. Across the city, bars are preparing for an influx of fans, with some establishments offering special “Broncos wings” and local animal rescues naming dogs after Broncos rookie quarterback Bo Nix.
Key Facts for the Weekend
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Broncos vs. Bills (NFL Playoffs) | Kickoff: 17 Jan, 14:30 at Empower Field. TV: CBS. |
| Nuggets vs. Wizards (NBA) | Tip-off: 17 Jan, evening at Ball Arena. |
| Economic Impact | Estimated $60+ million for metro Denver from playoff game. |
| Weather Alert | Red Flag Warning for high winds and dry conditions, elevating fire danger on the plains. |
| National Western Stock Show | Continues its 120th annual run, adding to weekend activity. |
Ongoing Civic and Utility Issues
Beyond the stadiums, several pressing issues occupy the city. Xcel Energy has been restoring power to customers in Northern Colorado after planned public safety shutoffs implemented due to wildfire risk, a move that has drawn criticism and a formal demand for more transparency from one Colorado city. Furthermore, some residents in southeast Denver endured over a week without landline phone service, citing poor communication from provider CenturyLink.
In local governance, Aurora city offices were closed on Friday for a furlough day aimed at addressing a budget shortfall. Conversely, the City and County of Denver was awarded a prestigious “What Works Cities” certification for its exceptional use of data in governance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time is the Broncos game and how can I watch it?
The AFC Divisional playoff game between the Denver Broncos and Buffalo Bills kicks off at 14:30 Mountain Time on Saturday 17 January. It will be broadcast nationally on CBS, with commentary by Jim Nantz and Tony Romo.
Why are there power outages in Colorado?
Xcel Energy has implemented “Public Safety Power Shutoffs” in areas of high wildfire risk, particularly during periods of dry, windy weather like the current Red Flag conditions. Power is being gradually restored as conditions allow.
Is there other major news in Denver?
Yes. A second victim from a shooting at a party celebrating the arrest of former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro nearly two weeks ago has died. Additionally, city officials have opened cold weather shelters due to the chillier conditions.