The Buffalo Bills faced a familiar foe in the Kansas City Chiefs during the AFC Championship Game, with the outcome resting on the shoulders of quarterback Josh Allen. Despite a valiant effort, the Bills fell short yet again, highlighting both their historic achievements this season and the areas in need of improvement moving forward.
The 2022 season marked a significant milestone for the Bills, as they became the first team in NFL history to record at least 30 rushing and 30 receiving touchdowns in a single campaign. Josh Allen emerged as an MVP contender, showcasing his talent and leadership while guiding the offense to unprecedented heights. However, despite these accomplishments, the season ended in disappointment, with the Bills unable to clinch a Super Bowl appearance since 1993.
In the AFC Championship Game, the Bills' defense struggled against the powerful Chiefs' offense, allowing an average of 34.8 points per game across their last four playoff contests since 2020. Defensive issues were glaringly evident, particularly in the defensive line, which struggled to contain Kansas City's offensive threats. As a result, general manager Brandon Beane emphasized the need for defensive enhancements, particularly at the defensive end position.
"We're done with pats on the back," stated defensive tackle Jordan Phillips. He acknowledged the need for improvement and a greater sense of urgency as the team reflected on their performance.
"We got to finish, we got to figure out how to get over it… We have the team. We have the right mindset. We just got to figure out what is holding us back from taking that next step," Phillips added.
Coach Sean McDermott also expressed his disappointment following the game, stating, "The defense didn't do it enough. We didn't perform well enough in the Kansas City game." He recognized that winning games and controlling the line of scrimmage are vital components for future success.
Despite these setbacks, McDermott remains optimistic about the team's trajectory. "I'd rather be in the position we're in, where we're continually knocking on the door," he asserted. However, he noted that there is still work to be done. "But… I don't deal well with sitting right on the edge and being like, 'Hey, well, it was a good season. Slap everybody on the back and say, we'll get them next year.'"
Josh Allen echoed similar sentiments following their loss. "We're constantly knocking at the door and you're playing a team like the Chiefs, who have done it so well for so long. You got to not just knock; you got to kick the door down, and we didn't do that."
The Bills' special teams also faced scrutiny this season, particularly kicker Tyler Bass, who struggled with consistency throughout. Nevertheless, he managed to finish strong, providing a glimmer of hope for next season.
Over the past five years, counting playoffs, the Bills have averaged an impressive 13 to 14 wins each season. This success has fostered a culture of resilience and determination within the organization. Beane reiterated this mindset by stating, "We are not giving in, we're not."
As they look toward next season, the Bills plan to build on their historic achievements from 2022 while addressing critical gaps in their roster. The team possesses ample cap flexibility for 2025, which could facilitate strategic acquisitions aimed at strengthening both their defensive lineup and offensive options.
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