Matt Prater Aims to Shine as Bills’ Kicker Against Broncos

Buffalo Bills kicker Matt Prater is poised to play a pivotal role in the upcoming divisional round against the Denver Broncos at Mile High Stadium. After missing two games due to a right quad injury, Prater returned to action during the Bills’ wild-card victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, successfully making two field goals and converting all three extra points. His performance suggests that he is regaining his form just in time for the playoffs.

Prater, who has a storied history with the Broncos, kicked for them for seven seasons, establishing himself as a reliable option. Notably, during the 2013 NFL season, he set a then-NFL record with a stunning 64-yard field goal against the Tennessee Titans. This remarkable kick, made as time expired in the first half, broke the previous record of 63 yards held by David Akers and Sebastian Janikowski. Prater’s record stood until Justin Tucker surpassed it with a 66-yard kick in 2021.

As Prater prepares for his first playoff game at Mile High since the 2014 AFC Championship Game, he is keen to demonstrate his skills in the altitude that has historically benefited his kicking. During his time with the Broncos, he converted approximately 83 percent of his field-goal attempts. However, his tenure in Denver ended after he was suspended for the first four games of the 2014 season due to a violation of the league’s substance abuse policy, leading to his release.

Since leaving Denver, Prater has played for the Detroit Lions and the Arizona Cardinals, before signing with the Bills on a one-year contract. In this season, he stepped in for Tyler Bass, who was sidelined with hip and groin injuries. Prater finished the regular season successfully converting 18 of 20 field goal attempts, with a long of 52 yards, including a game-winning kick in a chaotic Week 1 match against the Baltimore Ravens. He also demonstrated consistency on extra points, missing only three out of 49 attempts.

As the Bills gear up for their matchup against the Broncos, Prater’s experience and familiarity with the high-altitude conditions of Mile High could prove crucial. While some may regard the Bills as underdogs, the betting line does not reflect this narrative, suggesting that Prater’s contributions could be a decisive factor in the outcome of the game. With a chance for redemption and a strong performance, he aims to solidify his role as a key player for the Bills in their playoff run.