Buffalo Bills fans were caught off guard when head coach Sean McDermott announced that quarterback Josh Allen would start in Sunday’s Week 18 regular-season finale against the New England Patriots. With the Bills having already secured a playoff berth, many expected McDermott to rest his starters ahead of the postseason to avoid unnecessary injuries.
However, McDermott clarified that Allen’s consecutive starts streak—currently at 115 games—is a significant milestone for the quarterback and a point of pride. Allen echoed those sentiments during a press conference on Wednesday, explaining why continuing the streak matters so much to him.
A Point of Pride
“It’s something that means a lot to me,” Allen said. “Just making sure that I’ve been available, playing through things throughout the years. Yeah, it means a lot to me, so I’m glad I get to start.”
Allen acknowledged that he’s well aware he’s far from breaking Brett Favre’s NFL record of 297 consecutive starts. Still, the streak holds personal significance, reflecting his dedication, resilience, and commitment to being there for his team. Currently, Allen’s streak ranks as the longest active streak among NFL quarterbacks and places him 11th on the league’s all-time list.
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A Strategic Start
While Allen is set to start the game, McDermott and the Bills’ coaching staff are taking precautions to ensure their franchise quarterback remains healthy for the playoffs. Allen is expected to play only a limited number of snaps—likely a series or two—before taking a seat for the remainder of the game. This approach allows Allen to maintain his streak while minimizing the risk of injury.
Bills fans can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that their star quarterback will not be overexposed in a game with limited stakes. The team is focused on ensuring Allen is at peak performance for their upcoming wild-card matchup, set to kick off on Saturday, Jan. 11.
A Season of Resilience
Allen’s streak is a testament to his durability and toughness, qualities that have made him one of the NFL’s most reliable and dynamic quarterbacks. Throughout the season, Allen has played through various bumps and bruises, continuing to lead the Bills with grit and determination.
As the Bills prepare for the postseason, Allen’s decision to start in Week 18 underscores his leadership and commitment to setting the tone for his teammates. While the game against the Patriots may not impact the standings, it carries symbolic weight for Allen and his role as a cornerstone of the franchise.
Looking Ahead to the Playoffs
The Bills’ wild-card opponent has yet to be determined, but one thing is certain: they’ll be counting on Allen to lead the charge in the postseason. After another stellar regular season, Allen has positioned himself as one of the league’s elite quarterbacks and a key factor in Buffalo’s quest for a Super Bowl title.
By starting in Week 18, Allen not only keeps his streak alive but also reinforces his dedication to his craft and his team. For Allen and the Bills, this moment is about more than just a game—it’s a testament to the resilience and leadership that have come to define his career.
