The Miami Dolphins and Buffalo Bills are set to conclude the regular season in a crucial AFC East title matchup, and defensive coordinator Vic Fangio is tasked with devising a plan to contain the formidable Josh Allen.
In a statement to the Sun Sentinel’s Chris Perkins, Fangio likened Buffalo’s star quarterback to “the new John Elway on steroids.” The comparison was intended to emphasize Allen’s exceptional qualities and playing style rather than suggest the use of performance-enhancing substances.
Fangio elaborated on the similarities between Allen and Elway, acknowledging their distinct body types and running styles but highlighting the shared challenges they pose to opposing defenses. He described Allen as a “beast of a guy” and a “physical specimen.”
Having previously coached the Denver Broncos during Elway’s tenure as an executive, Fangio referred to Allen as “a dude.” Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 237 pounds, Allen’s physique aligns more closely with that of Jacksonville Jaguars edge rusher Josh Allen than the typical quarterback. Like Elway, he combines imposing size with a powerful throwing arm.
Since the beginning of 2019, Allen ranks second to Patrick Mahomes in passing touchdowns (155) while securing the third-most passing yards. In the current season, he has contributed 4,404 yards and 42 touchdowns.
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Allen’s standout performance against the Dolphins earlier in the season saw him complete 21 of 25 passes for 320 yards, four touchdowns, and an impressive passer rating in a 48-20 victory in Week 4.
With the AFC East title at stake, Buffalo has the opportunity to claim the division crown through a tiebreaker with a Week 18 win in Miami. Fangio’s defensive strategy will play a pivotal role in the Dolphins’ quest for their first AFC East title since 2008.
The regular season concludes with a Sunday Night Football matchup between the Dolphins and Bills, scheduled to kick off at 8:20 p.m. ET on NBC.
