Special Teams and Kicking Woes
Special teams also played a pivotal role in the Bills' defeat. Tyler Bass's missed field goals and a blocked attempt were critical moments that contributed to the loss. These misses, especially in a high-stakes game, put into question the reliability of the Bills' special teams under pressure.
McDermott's Coaching Decisions Questioned
Head Coach Sean McDermott's decisions, particularly in crucial game moments, have come under scrutiny. His approach, often criticized for being too conservative, was evident in this game. The decision to ice the kicker, a tactic that has been debated for its effectiveness, was one such example. Additionally, McDermott's strategy in the closing moments of the game, choosing to kneel and push for overtime, was seen as a 'playing not to lose' approach, which ultimately backfired.
Offensive Highlights
Despite the loss, the Bills' offense, led by quarterback Josh Allen, showed flashes of brilliance. Allen's 339 passing yards and 81 rushing yards, accounting for four touchdowns (two passing, two rushing), were standout performances. However, these impressive numbers weren't enough to secure a win, raising questions about the balance between the team's offensive output and their defensive and special teams effectiveness.