ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — Josh Allen has been vocal about viewing the upcoming game against the undefeated Chiefs and their star quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, as just another regular-season matchup in the 17-game schedule. He emphasized this perspective while navigating the pre-game buzz surrounding the highly anticipated clash. CBS production trucks lined up in the Bills’ parking area, setting the stage for the national broadcast, while speculation swirled about the possibility of Taylor Swift making an appearance, as her tour makes a brief stop in Toronto.
During practice, Allen revealed his mindset regarding the matchup by highlighting the similarity of statistics between himself and Mahomes. However, he pointed out a crucial aspect: the Bills hold a 0-3 playoff record against the Chiefs over the last four years. “Well, I know we haven’t beaten them in the playoffs,” Allen remarked, making it clear that playoff success speaks volumes more than regular-season victories. Despite winning the last three regular-season encounters since their initial loss in 2020, the Bills have struggled in the postseason, including a close 27-24 defeat last January that ended with an unsuccessful field goal attempt.
With no playoff implications at stake for either team in this Week 11 contest, Allen is focused on sticking to the team’s philosophy of inclusivity. The Bills currently boast an impressive 8-2 record, marking their most successful start to a season since 1993. “I know the media perception and the fan perception is significant, but for us, it’s just Week 11,” he stated. This attitude reflects Allen’s commitment to maintaining the team’s effective approach that has propelled them to their current standing.
Allen’s current season showcases a notable efficiency, despite a decrease in his overall production. His passing numbers stand at 2,281 yards and 17 touchdowns, marking his lowest total in these categories since 2019. Furthermore, his interception rate has significantly improved, with just four recorded so far, compared to the double-digit totals of past seasons. This year, Allen has adapted well to the team’s struggles, including injuries to key players. Rookie receiver Keon Coleman will sit out yet another game, and Amari Cooper, a trade acquisition, has faced injuries as well. This transition period was further complicated by the departure of Stefon Diggs and Gabe Davis from the receiver group.
Nonetheless, the Bills have managed a winning streak of five games, inching closer to clinching their fifth consecutive AFC East title, with only three wins needed to secure it. Backup quarterback Mitch Trubisky praised Allen’s continuous improvement and work ethic, noting the challenge to keep pushing boundaries every week as he develops into a more rounded player. Trubisky highlighted how Allen addresses his weaknesses in the offseason, making him a formidable competitor.
Despite the similarities between Allen and Mahomes in terms of career stats, including their combined touchdown and yardage numbers since 2019, Allen acknowledged Mahomes’ Super Bowl success as a distinguishing factor. The Chiefs’ quarterback has secured three championships, while Allen’s closest encounter was during the 2020 AFC Championship game against Mahomes’ team. “To be mentioned with him is very cool from the football aspect of it,” Allen reflected, acknowledging Mahomes’ achievements without losing sight of his own focus on helping the Bills succeed.