The Buffalo Bills (12-3) approach the end of the 2024 NFL regular season with a matchup at home against the New York Jets (4-11) at Highmark Stadium.
All week, topics and storylines have been discussed ahead of the Week 16 matchup.
In the end, regardless of what is said by players, coaches, media outlets, and fans, it always comes down to what unfolds on the field in the NFL.
And once the battle arrives, there will be a few particular things to keep in mind to look out for.
Here are five things to watch for during Sunday’s Bills-Jets clash:
Allen MVP drive
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As the stretch run of the 2024 season has rolled on, the MVP chances of Bills quarterback Josh Allen have been watched closely. Will he pull it off? Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson is his closest competition, according to most pundits.
Cold play
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Speaking of Allen and the MVP, he did not perform well in Buffalo’s win over the Patriots last week. That likely knocked him down a few levels for some and Allen will need a big outing to convince some… especially in the cold weather. That played a part in it being a tough passing effort in Week 16. Can the Bills perform in the passing game in their own backyard? Running back James Cook can, but this team will need both.
Will it be close?
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The Bills beat the Jets already in 2024… but it was not easy. Buffalo won 23-20 in Week 6 and let’s keep this simple: Can the Bills have a bigger win in this one?
Defensive health
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Buffalo’s win against New England was close last week. The offense played a part, but so did the health of the defense. Among those potentially back will be cornerback Rasul Douglas (knee) and linebacker Matt Milano (bicep/groin). Such starters will make a difference. That should show.
Vanilla?
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The Bills will need to win this to lock up the No. 2 seed in the AFC postseason. Buffalo can’t take it easy. But after a certain point, do the Bills play a bit “vanilla” so their playoff opponents have less to look at? It’s an interesting balance for head coach Sean McDermott.
