The Buffalo Bills destroyed the New York Jets 40-14 to move to 13-3 on the season and secured the number two seed in the playoffs. They have won 13 games for just the fourth time in franchise history and scored the most points ever. This is as dominant of a team that I have seen in my lifetime (I’m 36) so to see them have them play so well knowing they can keep up with anyone in the league is awesome to see.
Knowing next week means absolutely nothing is satisfying knowing they can rest starters, backups can get reps before the playoffs, and the team can get healthier.
On top of having a pseudo-bye next week, the Bills did not leave Sunday with many new injuries. Below are the injuries coming out of Sunday’s win and analysis.
In-Game Injuries
OL Alec Anderson (Left Ankle/Stinger)
Anderson was beat up several times on Sunday starting when he lost his balance and rolled his left ankle early in the second quarter. This appeared to be a garden variety low ankle sprain that required a new tape job.
He was able to walk off the field under his own power and get his left leg up on the training table to get taped and quickly was cleared to return.
Injury struck again midway through the fourth quarter when he was hit in his collarbone area and had his head snapped to the left as seen on the play below.
Looking at the film, he looked to suffer a stinger which also explains why his right arm was dangling. He never received an official in-game update, but considering the score, there was no need for him to return. There are plenty of pictures after the game of him moving around and appearing to have no ill effects
WR Amari Cooper (Head Check/Tailbone)
Cooper briefly required medical attention following his touchdown catch midway through the third quarter. He laid on the ground for several seconds before getting up and talking with Nate Breske, the head athletic trainer.
The Bills PR announced that he was assessed for a head injury likely due to how his head struck the ground. This was likely initiated by the independent ATC’s that watch every play for possible head trauma or concerning plays. He was evaluated and quickly cleared to return to play.
After the game, he clarified that he laid on the ground for a little bit due to hitting his tailbone.
Other Observations
CB Cam Lewis (Right Shoulder)
It wasn’t clear which shoulder was bothering Lewis after being questionable heading into the game. Pictures reveal that his right shoulder had tape or a brace on the area allowing him to play.
The exact injury isn’t clear but worth noting in case he aggravates the issue in the coming weeks.
Final Thoughts
The Bills took care of business and didn’t suffer any notable injuries. They look to get potentially Curtis Samuel and Damar Hamlin back next week but allow the team as a whole to get healthier and back ups key reps.
With nothing to play for, the team can afford to rest several players including: Josh Allen, James Cook, Khalil Shakir, Dion Dawkins, Spencer Brown, Greg Rousseau, Ed Oliver, Taron Johnson, Rasul Douglas, Christian Benford, DaQuan Jones.
You could make the arguments why each player should play, including Josh Allen having his consecutive games streak intact, James Cook getting the rushing touchdown record, or others that have certain contract incentives to reach. I would expect Mike White to be elevated once Allen exits the game should he play. Based on who else can be called up or has “earned” it, that could allow another player to rest.
I’d love to see the Bills get their 14th win but it isn’t worth it to sacrifice any player due to injury. This should be a pretty light week of practice with a look ahead to either the Denver Broncos, Cincinnati Bengals, or Miami Dolphins in the first round.
It’s an excellent time to be a Buffalo Bills fan, savor this moment before the playoffs start.
Top Photo Credit: USA Today
