It wasn't pretty, but a win is a win in the NFL. The playoffs are a different beast, and the best teams win the closest games. The Buffalo Bills pulled out a narrow 34-31 victory over the Miami Dolphins earlier today.

They wouldn't have done it without the performance of rookie cornerback Kaiir Elam.

Elam had a massive interception for Buffalo and nearly had a second one later in the game. He was seemingly all over the field for the Bills, and the needed him to be.

The Dolphins threw the ball a whopping 45 times. They completed just 18 passes.

Elam got plenty of praise after the victory.

His fellow CB, Tre'Davious White, says that his stellar performance wasn't surprising. 

"He's such a student of the game. He really wants it. His desire to be the best is next to none. The success he had today was not a surprise."

-Tre White on Kaiir Elam#Bills #BillsMafia @Batavia_Daily

— alex brasky (@alexbrasky) January 15, 2023

White also mentioned that Elam came in on his off days to catch passes this past week to prepare for this game.

Elam knew it was a massive opportunity for him, and he took advantage.

It was especially meaningful because his snaps haven't been super consistent this season. He has even been scratched from the lineup at times.

It hasn't been easy, but it is clear that Elam has been working really hard behind the scenes. That paid off in a big way in his first postseason NFL game.

The Florida product will be very important going forward in these playoffs, too. The Bills will have to contain talented offenses if they want to come out of the AFC.

Regardless, the Bills look like they have a very talented cornerback duo for years to come.

Featured Image via USA TODAY-Sports