Buffalo Bills’ Josh Allen to start against Patriots, extend streak and then sit

The Buffalo Bills are set to face the New England Patriots in their final regular-season game, and while the matchup holds no playoff implications for the Bills, quarterback Josh Allen will take the field briefly to continue his impressive streak of consecutive starts. Head coach Sean McDermott shared details about the team’s approach to this game, balancing individual milestones and playoff preparation. Here’s what to expect as the Bills wrap up their regular season.

Josh Allen: Continuing His Remarkable Starting Streak

Josh Allen, the face of the Buffalo Bills, will play a limited role in Week 18 to maintain his consecutive starts streak, which currently stands at 104 games. This milestone is the longest active streak among NFL quarterbacks and ranks as the 11th-longest streak since 2000. Allen’s consistency and durability have been a cornerstone of the Bills’ success, as he hasn’t missed a start since his rookie season.

“One of the things that is very important to [Allen] is his consecutive starts streak, and it’s important to him for a great reason,” McDermott said. “He wants to be out there with his teammates.” This commitment reflects Allen’s leadership and passion for the game, which has driven the Bills to a franchise-record 509 points and 63 touchdowns this season. Allen has also minimized mistakes, posting career lows in interceptions (six), fumbles (five), and sacks (14), thanks to an outstanding offensive line.

Resting Starters While Prioritizing Team Success

With the No. 2 seed in the AFC already clinched, the Bills (13-3) are using this game as an opportunity to rest key players and evaluate others. While Allen will start briefly, McDermott emphasized the importance of balancing team goals with individual milestones, especially with the playoffs on the horizon.

“We’re going to try and be aware of all the circumstances,” McDermott said. “Some of these things are important from a team, organizational standpoint, and then also for guys who have worked so hard… but at the end of the day, it’s got to be about the team.” A mix of regular starters and younger players will take the field, allowing the Bills to prepare strategically while giving some contributors valuable game experience.

Updates on Injuries and Key Roster Decisions

The Bills are optimistic about the return of several injured players, including safety Damar Hamlin and wide receiver Curtis Samuel, who have been sidelined with rib injuries. If cleared, these players are expected to see limited action, which would help them regain their rhythm before the playoffs. McDermott also mentioned the importance of monitoring individual player milestones while maintaining the team’s overall focus.

“We want to be aware of what’s at stake for players who’ve worked hard to achieve their goals,” McDermott explained. While personal achievements like Allen’s streak are significant, they won’t come at the expense of team readiness for the postseason.

Balancing Milestones with Playoff Preparation

As the Bills prepare for their final regular-season game, their strategy reflects a careful balance between honoring individual milestones and focusing on playoff readiness. For Josh Allen, starting the game allows him to continue his remarkable streak and showcase his dedication to his team. Meanwhile, the Bills aim to fine-tune their roster, rest key players, and ensure they’re in peak condition for the postseason.

With their sights set on a deep playoff run, the Bills remain focused on their ultimate goal: a Super Bowl title. McDermott’s approach underscores the importance of team success above all else. “At the end of the day, it’s all about the team.”