Posted on Dec 29

Bills fall to Eagles 13-12; Allen's foot injury worsens, ending AFC East title hopes

Posted Dec 29, 2025

The Buffalo Bills suffered a narrow 13-12 defeat against the Philadelphia Eagles, jeopardizing their chances at the AFC East title and raising concerns about quarterback Josh Allen's health.

Why it matters: This loss not only cost the Bills their shot at clinching the AFC East for a sixth consecutive season but also highlighted vulnerabilities in their offense as they head into the playoffs.

With this defeat, the New England Patriots clinched the division, marking a significant shift in the competitive landscape of the AFC East.
The Bills struggled offensively throughout the game, failing to score until the fourth quarter, which reflects deeper issues that could hinder their playoff aspirations.

What's new: Allen’s right foot injury flared up during the game, leading to further concerns regarding his ability to perform effectively moving forward.

Though X-rays on Allen's foot returned negative, he limped out of the locker room post-game, indicating lingering discomfort.
Over the course of the season, Allen has been sacked a career-high 40 times, raising questions about both his protection and mobility.

Yes, but: Despite the injury, Allen downplayed its impact on his performance, asserting that it had "zero" effect on how he played.

However, his limited rushing output—only 8 yards on two attempts—contrasts sharply with his usual dual-threat capability, suggesting the injury may be affecting his game more than he admits.
The Bills’ offensive struggles were compounded by poor execution, including six punts and a crucial fumble just outside the red zone.

What to watch: As the regular season winds down, the Bills' upcoming matchup against the New York Jets becomes critical for playoff seeding.

Head coach Sean McDermott noted that decisions about Allen’s health will be made in the context of the team’s leadership discussions, emphasizing the need for careful management as they approach the postseason.
The outcome against the Jets may also determine where the Bills stand in the playoff picture, adding pressure to ensure Allen’s readiness.

Between the lines: Khalil Shakir’s comments on a missed opportunity to make himself more available on a late-game play exemplify the pressures facing the Buffalo offense.

Shakir expressed regret over not breaking faster on a critical route, highlighting the team's collective need to improve under pressure.
This sentiment reflects a broader theme of accountability among players, which McDermott has fostered as the team navigates its challenges.

The bottom line: The Bills must regroup quickly, focusing on both player health and offensive efficiency if they are to remain contenders in the playoffs.

With key injuries affecting starters and a recent dip in performance, the Bills have little time to correct course before the postseason arrives.
As the franchise aims to reclaim its position among the AFC elite, each player's role will become increasingly vital in their quest for a Super Bowl run.

Bills fall to Eagles 13-12; Allen's foot injury worsens, ending AFC East title hopes

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 29, 2025

The Buffalo Bills suffered a narrow 13-12 defeat against the Philadelphia Eagles, jeopardizing their chances at the AFC East title and raising concerns about quarterback Josh Allen's health.

With this defeat, the New England Patriots clinched the division, marking a significant shift in the competitive landscape of the AFC East.

The Bills struggled offensively throughout the game, failing to score until the fourth quarter, which reflects deeper issues that could hinder their playoff aspirations.

What's new: Allen’s right foot injury flared up during the game, leading to further concerns regarding his ability to perform effectively moving forward.

Though X-rays on Allen's foot returned negative, he limped out of the locker room post-game, indicating lingering discomfort.

Over the course of the season, Allen has been sacked a career-high 40 times, raising questions about both his protection and mobility.

Yes, but: Despite the injury, Allen downplayed its impact on his performance, asserting that it had "zero" effect on how he played.

However, his limited rushing output—only 8 yards on two attempts—contrasts sharply with his usual dual-threat capability, suggesting the injury may be affecting his game more than he admits.

The Bills’ offensive struggles were compounded by poor execution, including six punts and a crucial fumble just outside the red zone.

What to watch: As the regular season winds down, the Bills' upcoming matchup against the New York Jets becomes critical for playoff seeding.

Head coach Sean McDermott noted that decisions about Allen’s health will be made in the context of the team’s leadership discussions, emphasizing the need for careful management as they approach the postseason.

The outcome against the Jets may also determine where the Bills stand in the playoff picture, adding pressure to ensure Allen’s readiness.

Between the lines: Khalil Shakir’s comments on a missed opportunity to make himself more available on a late-game play exemplify the pressures facing the Buffalo offense.

Shakir expressed regret over not breaking faster on a critical route, highlighting the team's collective need to improve under pressure.

This sentiment reflects a broader theme of accountability among players, which McDermott has fostered as the team navigates its challenges.

The bottom line: The Bills must regroup quickly, focusing on both player health and offensive efficiency if they are to remain contenders in the playoffs.

With key injuries affecting starters and a recent dip in performance, the Bills have little time to correct course before the postseason arrives.

As the franchise aims to reclaim its position among the AFC elite, each player's role will become increasingly vital in their quest for a Super Bowl run.