Following the Buffalo Bills’ 24-22 loss to the Denver Broncos on Monday night, quarterback Josh Allen was asked to express his emotions. After a prolonged pause, Allen reflected on the defeat, remarking, “It sucks.” This phrase succinctly encapsulates a myriad of deflating moments throughout his career.
While the loss was a collective organizational debacle, the feeling of defeat was eerily familiar to Allen. This sentiment was reminiscent of a 661-day-old memory—the infamous 13-second collapse in the divisional round of the playoffs against the Kansas City Chiefs. Allen had vowed to hold onto that empty feeling, yet it’s difficult to ignore the possibility that the Bills are regressing rather than progressing.
One indicator of this regression is Allen’s playing style, reverting back to a turnover-prone approach that was previously checked under former offensive coordinator Brian Daboll. Despite a top-10 scoring offense, the Bills have struggled to exhibit consistency and cohesion, essential for championship-winning teams.
The recent loss has sparked conversations about elevating Joe Brady to the offensive coordinator role, with hopes of reigniting Allen and the Bills offense. Although, the need for improvement also applies to Allen’s playing style. He appears to be making too many bad decisions and reverting to a more reckless form of play.
Ultimately, the Bills and Allen are not as they should be. This reality traces back to the 13 seconds that changed everything, leaving them in a position where confidence and anticipation are still being discussed as elusive qualities in Allen’s game.
