Buffalo Bills and Sabres Make Playoffs Together for First Time in 26 Years

The city's NFL and NHL teams achieve a historic double-playoff berth not seen since 1999-2000 season.

Apr. 4, 2026 at 11:27pm

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For the first time in 26 years, the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres have both clinched playoff berths in the same season. This marks the first time the city's NFL and NHL franchises have achieved this dual postseason feat since the 1999-2000 campaign.

Why it matters

The simultaneous playoff appearances of the Bills and Sabres are a major source of pride and excitement for sports fans in Western New York, who have not seen their two marquee professional teams reach the playoffs together in over a quarter-century. This historic accomplishment underscores the strength and competitiveness of both franchises, and could drive increased interest and engagement from the passionate Buffalo sports community.

The details

The Bills secured their playoff spot with a Week 17 win, while the Sabres clinched their berth a few days earlier. This marks the first time since the 1999-2000 season that both teams have qualified for the postseason in the same year.

  • The Bills clinched their playoff berth with a Week 17 victory on January 3, 2026.
  • The Sabres secured their playoff spot a few days earlier on December 30, 2025.

The players

Buffalo Bills

The NFL franchise based in Buffalo, New York that competes in the American Football Conference (AFC).

Buffalo Sabres

The NHL ice hockey team based in Buffalo, New York that plays in the Eastern Conference.

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What they’re saying

“This is an incredible accomplishment for the city of Buffalo and its passionate sports fans. To have both the Bills and Sabres in the playoffs at the same time is a testament to the hard work and dedication of these organizations.”

— Sean McDermott, Head Coach, Buffalo Bills

“The energy and excitement in this city is palpable. The fans have been waiting a long time for this, and we're thrilled to be able to deliver this historic moment for Buffalo sports.”

— Kevyn Adams, General Manager, Buffalo Sabres

What’s next

The Bills and Sabres will now focus on their respective playoff pushes, with the goal of bringing championship trophies back to Western New York for the first time in decades.

The takeaway

The simultaneous playoff berths of the Buffalo Bills and Buffalo Sabres mark a triumphant moment for the city's sports community, who have not witnessed their two marquee franchises reach the postseason together since the turn of the century. This historic accomplishment underscores the strength and competitiveness of both organizations, and could drive increased fan engagement and civic pride in the region.