Josh Allen Leads Buffalo Bills to Victory in AFC Wild-Card Playoff Game
Buffalo Bills linebacker A.J. Klein (52) tackles Pittsburgh Steelers running back Jaylen Warren (30) during the fourth quarter of an NFL wild-card playoff football game, Monday, Jan. 15, 2024, in Buffalo, N.Y. (AP Photo/Adrian Kraus)
Highlights:
- Josh Allen throws three touchdown passes and scores on a 52-yard run.
- Buffalo Bills beat Pittsburgh Steelers 31-17 in AFC wild-card playoff game.
- Franchise playoff-record 52-yard touchdown run energizes the Highmark Stadium crowd.
- Bills advance to face Kansas City Chiefs in divisional round.
- Resilience and veteran leadership key for the Bills.
Game Recap:
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — In a thrilling AFC wild-card playoff game, the Buffalo Bills emerged victorious with a 31-17 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers. The game, originally scheduled for Sunday, was postponed due to a lake-effect blizzard. Josh Allen led the Bills’ offense, throwing three touchdown passes and making a franchise playoff-record 52-yard touchdown run. The snow-covered Highmark Stadium witnessed the Bills’ triumph as fans celebrated by tossing snow into the air.
Allen’s game-changing play came in the fourth quarter when he connected with Khalil Shakir for a 17-yard touchdown pass. Shakir’s incredible moves evaded Minkah Fitzpatrick’s tackle attempt, allowing him to score and secure the victory for Buffalo. The Bills, with their five straight regular-season wins, now move on to host the Kansas City Chiefs in the divisional round on Sunday night.
“We’ve got a resilient group. The veteran leadership that we have, I really think it’s unmatched in the league,” said Allen, reflecting on the Bills’ comeback after a 6-6 record in late November.
The Bills have long awaited a home playoff game against the Chiefs, as their previous playoff runs ended with losses in Kansas City. Allen expressed his gratitude for another chance to face the Chiefs and acknowledged the challenge ahead, emphasizing the need for a team effort.
Allen’s exceptional performance included 21 completions for 203 yards, with no turnovers, making him the first quarterback in NFL playoff history to throw three or more touchdowns while rushing for 70 or more yards and a score. The Bills’ defense, despite losing several key players to injuries, held up against the Steelers’ offense, allowing only 324 yards and limiting their third-down conversions.
Steelers Struggle to Keep Up:
The Pittsburgh Steelers, led by quarterback Mason Rudolph in his first playoff start, fell short against the Bills. Rudolph threw two touchdowns but also had an interception, while the Steelers’ offense struggled to find consistency. The team’s fifth consecutive playoff loss highlighted their inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities and prevent turnovers.
Steelers coach Mike Tomlin acknowledged the team’s shortcomings and expressed disappointment with their performance. The Bills took advantage of two Steelers turnovers, resulting in 14 points and ultimately sealing the game. The future of the Steelers’ organization remains uncertain, with Tomlin evading questions about his future in Pittsburgh.
Next Steps for the Bills:
The Bills’ victory sets up an exciting divisional round clash with the Kansas City Chiefs. Buffalo aims to avenge their previous playoff losses to the Chiefs and continue their journey in the postseason. With the support of their resilient team and passionate fanbase, the Bills are determined to make a deep playoff run this year.
Injuries:
The Bills’ defense faced additional challenges due to injuries, but the depleted unit held strong. Linebacker Terrel Bernard and starting nickelback Taron Johnson suffered injuries during the game, while cornerback Rasul Douglas and linebacker Tyrel Dodson were already ruled out before kickoff. Despite these setbacks, the Bills’ defense showcased their determination, allowing only 5 of 11 third-down conversions by the Steelers.