Bills edge Browns 23-20 as Allen overcomes foot injury, Cook excels with 117 yards

The Buffalo Bills edged past the Cleveland Browns 23-20, despite a concerning foot injury to quarterback Josh Allen.

Why it matters: This victory not only solidifies the Bills' playoff position with an 11-4 record but also raises questions about Allen's health as the postseason approaches.

Allen's resilience was evident when he returned to the field after briefly limping to the locker room for an X-ray following his injury in the first half. His quick return and ability to finish the game were crucial, but they highlighted the delicate balance between performance and health in high-stakes situations.

What's new: Allen completed 6-of-12 passes for just 44 yards in the second half, significantly down from his 6-of-7 for 86 yards before halftime.

• Despite playing through pain, the Bills struggled offensively after the break, managing only three points and failing to sustain any meaningful drives.
• In stark contrast, rookie running back James Cook emerged as a key player, leading all rushers with 117 yards, showcasing his potential as the team's primary back.

Yes, but: While the Bills secured the win, their second-half performance raised concerns among fans and analysts alike.

• The offense appeared disjointed, producing no drive longer than 36 yards post-halftime, which could be indicative of deeper issues as they head into the playoffs.
• Defensive players Myles Garrett and Alex Wright managed to sack Allen, highlighting vulnerabilities in the offensive line that need addressing.

What to watch: With the playoffs looming, how Allen manages his foot injury will be critical.

• As coach Sean McDermott mentioned, "Josh isn't one to lead on if he is [impacted by injury]. He's so tough, so competitive." This toughness may serve him well, but it also raises the stakes for his durability.

Between the lines: The Bills’ offensive strategy, often reliant on Allen’s dual-threat capabilities, may require adjustments if he begins to feel the effects of wear and tear.

• Protecting Allen is paramount, particularly against defenses that can exploit weaknesses, like the Browns did. Dion Dawkins role will be vital in ensuring that pressure is minimized in future games.

The bottom line: While the Bills celebrated a hard-fought victory, the lingering effects of Allen's injury and the team's inconsistent offense pose significant challenges ahead.

• As the team transitions into what Allen describes as "playoff mode," finding a balance between winning and maintaining player health will be crucial for their championship aspirations.