Bills QB Allen expected to play vs. Jets; Poyer, Bernard, Jones out
The Buffalo Bills are gearing up for a critical regular-season finale against the New York Jets, with quarterback Josh Allen expected to lead the team despite recent practice limitations.
Why it matters: The outcome of this game is pivotal for the Bills as they vie for one of three wild-card spots in the playoffs.
- A victory against the Jets could solidify their postseason aspirations and provide momentum heading into the playoffs.
- With key players sidelined, maximizing Allen's performance will be crucial for success.
What’s new: Coach Sean McDermott has indicated that Allen, who missed some practice time this week but was upgraded to limited participation on Friday, is set to start the game.
- Allen has maintained an impressive active starts streak of 121 games, trailing only Philip Rivers record of 243 games.
- Should he play, it would not only preserve his streak but also signify his resilience and leadership as the team's focal point.
Yes, but: The Bills face significant injury challenges, particularly on defense, which may affect their overall performance on Sunday.
- Players such as safety Jordan Poyer, linebacker Terrel Bernard, and defensive tackle DaQuan Jones will miss the game due to injuries.
- Joey Bosa (hamstring), Dalton Kincaid (knee), and Jordan Phillips (ankle) are all listed as questionable, further complicating the team’s defensive strategy.
What to watch: Keep an eye on Mitchell Trubisky, the backup quarterback, who is prepared to step in should Allen’s situation change.
- Trubisky expressed confidence in his preparation, stating, "I got a good amount of reps throughout the week... I'm excited to get that opportunity."
- His performance could be critical if Allen is unable to maintain his health throughout the game.
The big picture: The Bills have relied heavily on Allen's dual-threat capabilities, which combine strong passing with effective rushing.
- This flexibility makes their offense unpredictable, aligning well with contemporary spread offensive schemes.
- However, with injuries mounting on both sides of the ball, the team may need to adjust its game plan to leverage their strengths effectively.
The bottom line: As the Bills prepare for this vital matchup, the health and performance of Josh Allen will be paramount.
- With a playoff berth on the line, the stakes could not be higher for the team, making this game a true test of their resolve and depth.
