Empower Field at Mile High was electric as it hosted the NFL Playoffs Divisional Round on Saturday, featuring a thrilling matchup between the Denver Broncos and the Buffalo Bills. The atmosphere was vibrant from the break of dawn as die-hard Broncos fans transformed the parking lots into a lively party zone, kicking off their gameday festivities as early as 8 a.m. with sizzling bacon and eggs, complete with the team’s signature orange and blue decorations.
Travis King, known as “Mr. B,” expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, “We love it. We love it.” Fellow fan Anthony Allen echoed his sentiment and highlighted the camaraderie among fans, saying, “Everyone’s coming down here to have a good time with everybody. And it’s just Bills fans, Broncos fans, it doesn’t matter.” The two, who formed a friendship during a previous away game in Houston, were particularly excited for this playoff showdown.
“We Bo-lieve in the Broncos,” proclaimed King, who traveled from Baltimore specifically for the game. He recalled attending a previous matchup in Buffalo, hinting at a desire for redemption. Allen added to the nostalgia by referencing his attendance at the AFC Championship game ten years prior, reinforcing the significance of this event.
For these fans, the game day experience extends far beyond just the matchup itself. They regard the pre-game tailgating as an essential aspect of the overall enjoyment. “The tailgate is half the experience,” King stated, emphasizing that they would spend over five hours in the parking lot socializing, grilling, and participating in games like cornhole before heading into the stadium.
As the Broncos prepared to battle the Bills, it was clear that the spirit of camaraderie and excitement among fans was a crucial part of the playoff atmosphere, showcasing the love and loyalty that Denver supporters hold for their team.