The Buffalo Bills have finally broken the curse. They’ve won their first road playoff game since 1993. Buffalo knocked off the red-hot Jacksonville Jaguars 27-24. These playoff games have all been one score with a minute left. With Josh Allen and the Bills’ historic win, let’s dive into it as they are moving on to the Divisional Round of the NFL Playoffs.
Bills’ MVP Plays Like an MVP
Entering this game, Allen hadn’t won a road playoff game in his career. Now, most of them have been against the dynasty of the era, the Kansas City Chiefs, but regardless, winning on the road, especially in the playoffs, is a skill. You need your big-time players to make big-time plays, and this was ‘put up or shut up’ time.
From down four in the first half, till down needing a touchdown in with three minutes left, Allen was the best player on the field. In the 4th quarter alone, he completed 9/11 passes for 103 yards, one passing touchdown, and a rushing touchdown. When his team needed it the most, he showed up.
Their defense was great as well, with timely stops and turnovers. Trevor Lawrence was on one of the hottest stretches of his career with 19 TDs and one interception over his last eight games, and they picked him off twice. The second one, the game-sealing INT, came off a deflection forced by Tre’Davious White. This is White’s second stint with the team. He tipped it in the air, and Cole Bishop caught it off the ricochet.
Jacksonville’s Hopeful Future
This was not a loss to hang their heads in vain over. They emptied the tank and led for much of the game. Did Cam Little’s missed field goal at the end of the first half come back to bite them? Yes, but it’s not the reason they lost. For a team that showed massive strides in development during the first season under head coach Liam Cohen, I would be over the moon excited for the future. Is there a thought of “Damn, we let this opportunity slip through our hands.”? Of Course. However, the future is bright in Duval County.
Not many teams or players can say they stood toe to toe in the playoffs against the Buffalo Bills. It would take a monstrous defensive performance. Just think, the Jags’ defense wasn’t even 100%. He was such a polarizing player coming out of college, but Travis Hunter has been out of sight and out of mind. Hunter suffered a season-ending knee injury at the end of October. Just think of how electric this team will be when he returns. Do they beat the Bills with him? Potentially.
What Happens Now?
The Buffalo Bills are waiting for the result of the Patriots vs the Chargers game to determine their fate. If the Patriots win, the Bills will head to Denver to face the Broncos. If the Chargers win, they will advance to the winner of the Steelers vs. Texans game. For the Jags, get ready to blow the doors off the league next season. Get healthy, improve the roster, and continue building on their great foundation.
Final Thoughts
These playoffs have been one of the best Wild Card rounds in NFL History. I could have easily seen either of these two teams representing the AFC in the Super Bowl. How far do you think the Bills can go? What were your takeaways from the game? Lastly, are the Jags championship contenders moving forward?
As always, thank you so much for checking out my thoughts and takeaways from the Buffalo Bills defeating the Jacksonville Jaguars 27-24! Be sure to check out our other amazing content here at New Leaf News! We hope you’re enjoying your day and look forward to seeing you again soon.
