The Buffalo Bills got themselves a statement win (kind of, at least) when they defeated the New England Patriots 24-10 on Thursday Night Football.
It was Buffalo’s first win over another AFC East team this season, as they had lost to the Miami Dolphins in Week 3 and the New York Jets in Week 9.
Two players, in particular, were prime movers and shakers in this victory, one that boosted the Bills to a 9-3 record and first place in their division.
Josh Allen
Allen has had somewhat underwhelming performances in four of his previous five games, but on Thursday, he played up to his capability.
He completed 22 of 33 passes and connected on two touchdown passes, one to Stefon Diggs and the other to Gabriel Davis.
The fact that Allen did this against a team that was ranked sixth in points allowed in fourth in total yards allowed was even more impressive.
James Cook
So far this season, Cook, a rookie running back who was a second-round selection in April’s NFL draft, has been underwhelming, as he came into Thursday’s contest with 259 rushing yards and 110 receiving yards.
But he had his best game as a pro on Thursday, running for 64 yards, which led the Bills, while adding 41 yards in the air.
This 28-yard run in the first quarter helped set up the Diggs touchdown that put Buffalo ahead for good.
Let Cook cook! 👨🍳 @thegreat__4 | @buffalobills#BUFvsNE on Prime Video
Also available on NFL+ https://t.co/bTTcEL41DH pic.twitter.com/DmO7ntLdZ7— NFL (@NFL) December 2, 2022
Unlike some teams, Buffalo executes its ground game by committee, as Allen, Cook and Devin Singletary take turns gaining yards and moving the chains on the run.
Of course, the team prefers to throw the ball, which is where Allen does his thing and leads a passing offense that came into Thursday ranked third in yards and second in touchdowns.
