Buffalo Bills, Cincinnati Bengals to Clash in Playoffs Post Damar Hamlin’s On-Field Collapse

The upcoming matchup between the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals on January 22 marks a poignant reunion, overshadowed by the recent on-field collapse of Bills safety Damar Hamlin that halted their previous encounter and sparked widespread support.

Both teams secured their spots in the Divisional round with victories on Sunday: the Bengals defeated the Baltimore Ravens 24-17 at Paycor Stadium, while the Bills triumphed 34-31 over the Miami Dolphins at Highmark Stadium earlier in the day.

The game on January 22 promises to be emotionally charged, coming just 20 days after Hamlin, in his second NFL season, suffered a cardiac arrest during a tackle, collapsing on the field in front of a stunned crowd.

Players were visibly moved as medical personnel worked to revive the 24-year-old, who was hospitalized in critical condition. The remainder of the Bills-Bengals game was canceled despite an outpouring of support from NFL teams and fans across the league, featuring tributes like T-shirts, signs, jersey patches, and on-field prayers.

“Now that everyone knows he’s doing a lot better and back with the team, it eases our minds about playing football,” remarked Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow on Sunday.

Bengals head coach Zac Taylor expressed anticipation about the upcoming match at Highmark Stadium, emphasizing the playoff atmosphere and the challenge of facing a formidable Buffalo team.

Hamlin made a poignant visit to the Bills’ facility in Orchard Park, New York, on Saturday, ahead of their victory over Miami. His presence deeply touched teammates, who gathered around to welcome him back warmly.

“For him to be here, it brought smiles and tears of joy to everyone in the building,” reflected Bills quarterback Josh Allen. “It was a blessing to see him back.”

Following his hospitalization in Cincinnati and subsequent transfer to Buffalo, Hamlin’s recovery progress was closely monitored by his teammates, who were heartened by his resilience and spirit.

“Seeing him walking around, healthy and recovering well, lifted a weight off our shoulders,” shared Bills safety Dean Marlowe. “Every guy on the team was so happy to see him.”

Bills head coach Sean McDermott echoed these sentiments, noting the joy Hamlin’s visit brought to the team and the warm reception from teammates and staff alike.

As the Bills prepare for their upcoming playoff clash with the Bengals, Hamlin, watching from home, expressed his unwavering support for his teammates as he focuses on his recovery. Contributions to this report were made by CNN’s Wayne Sterling, Homero De La Fuente, and Kevin Dotson.