Josh Allen and the Buffalo Bills will likely remember 2024 season fondly; particularly following their loss of the championship. It has sparked much discussion as to why Allen seems limited during playoff matches against Patrick Mahomes; but today we look at its aftereffects on Buffalo’s fans and players.
Unbeknownst to most, the NFL recently issued fines against several Bills players for behavior deemed unsportsmanlike and overly aggressive during their championship clash with Chiefs. Jordan Phillips received an unnecessary roughness fine following an incident during the second quarter where Phillips clashed helmets with Travis Kelce of Chiefs following play; similarly Matt Milano has received fine for violating facemask regulations when tackle Chiefs running back Kareem Hunt during crucial fourth-quarter play resulting in Harrison Butker scoring game-winning field goal against them.
Beyond these fines, there’s been scrutiny over comments made by Bills Head Coach Sean McDermott regarding referee bias prior to the championship game. McDermott had prepared his team for the potential of not receiving favorable calls, a sentiment echoed by other teams and coaches in similar positions, illustrating a broader discussion around officiating in critical games.
Buffalo Bills Head Coach Warns of Referee Bias
Addressing the media, Sean McDermott revealed he had cautioned his team about possible officiating disparities, advising them to mentally prepare for such outcomes. Despite these concerns, McDermott made it clear he did not believe refereeing was the sole reason for their loss, emphasizing mistakes made on their part. Nevertheless, a controversy lingers over a crucial play involving Josh Allen that many believe could have turned the game in their favor, yet it went unacknowledged by the officials.
As is evident with Allen’s response to defeat from four times against same team in Championship play, his mental anguish following this Championship loss has been considerable and expections high that there be some improvement come September 6th when next Season begins.
As the Bills look towards next season, their players, coaches, leadership team and fans all hope for an encouraging rebound, to shake off any setbacks associated with this championship loss and move forward with renewed determination and purpose.