Sunday in Buffalo is about more than just another regular-season game. Snow is expected, emotions are high, and fans know they are likely watching the final chapter of an era at Highmark Stadium. For Bills Mafia, this game carries weight because of what the stadium represents and because everything still runs through
Josh Allen.
The Buffalo Bills host the New York Jets at 4:25 p.m. ET in Week 18, and while Buffalo has already clinched a playoff spot, there is still plenty at stake. Seeding remains unsettled, and Allen’s health has become the biggest storyline heading into the weekend.
Josh Allen injury status and why Week 18 still matters for Buffalo
Josh Allen was on the injury report this week after not participating in practice due to a foot issue. The injury worsened during last week’s loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, but he does not currently have a game status designation. Inside the organization, there is uncertainty, but no indication yet that he will be ruled out.
Buffalo enters Week 18 sitting seventh in the AFC. A win over the Jets could move the Bills up to the sixth or even fifth seed. To climb, Buffalo needs help. The Bills must beat New York and hope for a loss by either the Houston Texans or the Los Angeles Chargers.
To reach the fifth seed, both teams would need to lose. Houston plays Indianapolis, while Los Angeles faces Denver.
Allen’s impact this season explains why his availability matters so much. He has thrown for 3,668 yards, completing 69.3 percent of his passes, with 25 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He has also added 579 rushing yards and 14 rushing touchdowns, once again carrying a major load for Buffalo’s offense.
Despite missing Wednesday’s practice, Allen said he is preparing as if he will be on the field. "Come gameday, I'm going to be ready, whether that's this week or next week. I just gotta prepare as if I'm ready to roll," Allen said. "I feel like we're in a good spot... just continuing to try to do all the things right, and make sure I'm ready to go."
There is history tied to this game as well. Allen needs one more touchdown to reach 40 total touchdowns this season, extending a streak that now spans four straight years. He has also not missed a start since November 2018, totaling 134 consecutive games, including the playoffs. For Allen, the setting matters just as much as the numbers. "Yeah, it means a lot. I know we got the red helmets out. Those are going to be pretty cool. I've obviously seen them in the locker room, and they're really sweet. A lot of good memories in the stadium. But looking forward to making new ones as well," he said.
Bills Mafia hopes to say goodbye to Highmark Stadium with a win. Whether Allen’s foot allows him to lead that moment remains the final question heading into Sunday.
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