Currently, the forecast calls for below-freezing temperatures, possible snowfall and winds that could exceed 20 mph. The National Weather Service in Buffalo has warned of possible low visibility, with snow on roads possibly impacting travel.
There are currently no plans to postpone Sunday’s game, which is scheduled to begin at 8:20 p.m. ET.
Highmark Stadium has been synonymous over the years with hosting games in less than ideal weather, unless you’re a Bills player or fan, that is. In fact, the weather forced the NFL postpone last January’s wild card playoff game between the Bills and Steelers, a game Buffalo ultimately won.
Sunday’s weather will certainly benefit the Bills, especially considering their opponent, the 49ers, is a team more accustomed to milder weather. The 49ers have a recent history of winning games played in inclement weather conditions. Just ask the Packers, who were upset by the 49ers in the 2021 divisional round in what was Aaron Rodgers’ final playoff game for the green and gold.
Speaking of history, Sunday’s game is a matchup between two of the NFL’s powerhouses during the 1990s. During that decade, the 49ers won their fifth Super Bowl and played in five NFC title games. Buffalo became the first team to appear in four consecutive Super Bowls after winning four straight AFC titles from 1990 to 1993.
Despite their success back then, the Bills and 49ers never met in the Super Bowl. It doesn’t look like that’s going to happen this season either, unless the 49ers (5-6) can mount a late-season charge.