NFL Reschedules Bills-Steelers Wild Card Game Due to Severe Weather
Buffalo, NY (January 7, 2024) – The National Football League (NFL) announced today the rescheduling of the Buffalo Bills vs. Pittsburgh Steelers Wild Card game due to severe weather conditions expected to impact western New York.
The game, originally scheduled for Sunday, January 8, has been moved to Monday, January 9, to ensure the safety of fans, players, and personnel. The game will be televised by CBS at 4:30 p.m. ET.
The decision to reschedule the game was made in consultation with New York Governor Kathy Hochul, the Buffalo Bills, and the Pittsburgh Steelers. The region is bracing for a significant snowstorm, and the NFL, in conjunction with local authorities, deemed it necessary to adjust the game schedule.
“The safety of our fans, players, and personnel is our top priority,” said NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. “We have been closely monitoring the weather forecast and are working with the Bills, Steelers, and local authorities to make the best decision for all involved. We understand that this is a highly anticipated game, but we believe that rescheduling to Monday is the right thing to do given the circumstances.”
Fans who had purchased tickets for the original Sunday game are advised to retain their tickets, as they will be valid for the rescheduled Monday game. The NFL is coordinating with Ticketmaster to facilitate any necessary adjustments or exchanges.
Governor Hochul expressed her support for the decision, emphasizing the importance of public safety. “We are grateful to the NFL for working with us to ensure the safety of our community during this challenging time,” she said. “We ask all residents to stay safe and follow the guidance of local officials as we navigate this weather emergency.”
The Buffalo Bills organization echoed the sentiment, prioritizing the well-being of all parties involved. “We appreciate the NFL’s decision to reschedule the game,” said Bills General Manager Brandon Beane. “Our primary concern is the safety of our fans, players, and staff. We look forward to hosting the Steelers on Monday and putting on a great game for our fans.”
The Pittsburgh Steelers also expressed their understanding and support for the decision. “We fully support the NFL’s decision to reschedule the game,” said Steelers President Art Rooney II. “The safety of everyone involved is paramount. We appreciate the cooperation of the Bills organization and look forward to competing on Monday.”
The NFL’s decision to reschedule the game has been met with mixed reactions among fans. Some expressed disappointment at the change, while others acknowledged the importance of prioritizing safety. The league emphasized its commitment to providing fans with a high-quality viewing experience and ensuring the integrity of the game.
As the region prepares for the impending storm, the NFL, local authorities, and both teams are working diligently to ensure a smooth and safe rescheduling of the Bills vs. Steelers Wild Card game. Fans are encouraged to monitor official NFL and team channels for the latest updates and information.
Original Statement from the NFL
NFL Statement on Bills-Steelers Wild Card Game Rescheduling:
Due to public safety concerns in light of the ongoing weather emergency in western New York, Sunday’s Steelers-Bills game has been rescheduled to Monday at 4:30 p.m. ET and will be televised by CBS.
The decision to move the game to Monday was made in consultation with New York Governor Kathy Hochul in the best interest of public safety, and with the Buffalo Bills and the Pittsburgh Steelers, as the region prepares for the storm.