This weekend's highly anticipated AFC divisional round clash between the Buffalo Bills and Baltimore Ravens is set to be a chilling affair. Highmark Stadium in Buffalo will be the stage for this crucial matchup, with kickoff scheduled for 6:30 p.m. on Sunday. However, the players can anticipate a less-than-balmy reception, as frigid temperatures and wintry weather are expected to dominate the game.

A September 29th, 2024, flashback: Bills running back Ray Davis (22) being brought down by Ravens linebackers Adisa Isaac (50) and Malik Harrison (40) at M&T Bank Stadium. (Geoff Burke/Imagn Images)

FOX Weather predicts temperatures in the mid-teens, accompanied by persistent snowfall throughout the game. An arctic surge is anticipated to hit the region early Sunday morning, with the deep freeze expected to linger into the following week.

The National Weather Service in Buffalo has issued a warning about wind chills potentially plummeting to single digits by kickoff, marking the onset of a cold front that is projected to intensify significantly in the days ahead. While the Bills are accustomed to playing in harsh winter conditions, the Ravens appear confident about their prospects.

Baltimore head coach John Harbaugh addressed the challenging conditions this week, emphasizing the need for his team to "operate under duress," not just from the opponent, but also from the environment. He highlighted the impact of the noise, particularly for the offense, and the importance of communication for both sides of the ball in such a challenging atmosphere.

Bills fans revel in the snow after James Cook's 65-yard touchdown run against the 49ers on December 1st, 2024, in Orchard Park. (Imagn)

Ravens cornerback Marlon Humphrey expressed his anticipation for the snowy conditions, downplaying the impact of the cold by noting that Baltimore also experiences freezing temperatures.

Adding to the intrigue of this divisional showdown is the MVP race, with both quarterbacks, Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen, considered frontrunners for the prestigious award. Earlier this season, the Bills defense struggled to contain Ravens running back Derrick Henry, who amassed 199 rushing yards, highlighted by an 87-yard touchdown run, in Baltimore's decisive 35-10 victory. However, the Ravens also carry the memory of a painful divisional round defeat to the Bills in 2020.

Bills players celebrate James Cook's touchdown with snow angels at Highmark Stadium against the 49ers on December 1st, 2024. (Gregory Fisher/Imagn Images)