The Buffalo Bills host the New York Jets today at 16:25 ET in the final game of the NFL regular season. The Bills, with a record of 11-5, have already secured a playoff spot, while the Jets, struggling at 3-13, are looking to end their season on a high note. The game will take place at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York, and will be broadcast on CBS. Fans can also stream the match live via DIRECTV and fuboTV, both offering free trials.
Coaches Reflect on the Season’s End
Bills head coach Sean McDermott faces a unique challenge as he balances the need to rest key players ahead of the playoffs with the desire to give a fitting farewell to Highmark Stadium. This could be the last game at this iconic venue before the Bills transition to a new $2.1 billion stadium next season. McDermott expressed his appreciation for the stadium, stating, “It’s a unique place. I want to cherish every minute of it.”
Despite the relatively low stakes of this matchup, McDermott is focused on maximizing his team’s performance. Quarterback Josh Allen, who has a sore right foot, is expected to start, extending his streak to 135 games, the longest active streak in the NFL. Meanwhile, running back James Cook is in contention to become the first Bills player to win the NFL’s rushing title since O.J. Simpson in 1976. Cook currently leads Jonathan Taylor of the Indianapolis Colts by 47 yards.
On the other side, Jets head coach Aaron Glenn acknowledges the difficulties of the season, which has extended New York’s playoff drought to 15 years. The Jets have been outscored 153-46 in their last four games, all losses. Glenn remains focused on the positives, stating, “It gives us another chance to play against a good playoff team,” while also emphasizing the need for improvement.
Key Players and Team Dynamics
The Jets are on the verge of an unwanted record, having gone 16 consecutive games without an interception, the longest streak in NFL history. If they fail to secure a pick today, they will be the first team to finish a season without any interceptions. Interim defensive coordinator Chris Harris commented on the unusual situation, saying, “I’ve never seen it, but our guys are working hard.”
For the Jets, rookie quarterback Brady Cook is set to make his fourth consecutive start. Initially starting on the practice squad, Cook has gained valuable experience during this late-season stretch. “Honestly, not a ton of big surprises,” he noted, reflecting on his development over the season.
As the Bills prepare for the postseason, they find themselves in a comfortable position, having secured the AFC’s No. 7 seed but unable to rise higher than No. 5. This likely means they will begin their playoff journey on the road.
McDermott, now in his ninth season, has transformed the Bills into playoff contenders. He has led the team to the playoffs for seven consecutive years and eight times in total. Reflecting on his time at Highmark Stadium, he shared, “Life moves fast, and it’s been a special place for a lot of people.”
With both teams looking to make an impact in their own ways, this final clash will be more than just a game; it’s a chance for the Bills to honor their home ground and for the Jets to lay the groundwork for future success. As fans tune in, the stakes may be different, but the spirit of competition remains as strong as ever.
