Bills’ Sean McDermott doesn’t sugarcoat major roster concern just moments after Bills rally past the Patriots in Foxborough
A heck of a response from head coach Sean McDermott.
The Buffalo Bills are riding high off a thrilling comeback victory against the New England Patriots in Week 15. However, it wasn’t all perfect, and for much of the game, fans weren’t cheering.
During the first half, the team just couldn’t get anything going, and it looked like quarterback Drake Maye and the Patriots would embarrass Buffalo. The rest, as they say, is history. Buffalo made some huge second-half adjustments and punched back, securing the win in Foxborough.
Despite being down their best defensive player, cornerback Christian Benford, the Bills took care of business. It was a statement win for Buffalo in one of the most exciting games of the season.
McDermott doesn’t mince words in postgame
Head coach Sean McDermott spoke to the media immediately after the win and was asked about the first-half problems. McDermott didn’t mince his words and pointed out a major issue that’s plaguing the team: run defense.
“We were giving up some runs, and then because of that, they were a two-dimensional offense and keeping us off balance a little bit there,” McDermott said. “Run defense usually starts with gap integrity, so we’ll look at it and address it. We’ve got to be better, that’s for sure.”
It wasn’t just run defense that was an issue; starting the game ready to play football has been an issue as of late. While it shows remarkable resilience, it’s also problematic that the team doesn’t show up until the second half.
“That’s something we have to work on, something we have to, you know, get into a rhythm sooner,” McDermott said. “But there’s also an ability to adjust during a game. Anybody can come up with a game plan, but it’s also what happens when they take certain things away, are you able to pivot and adjust, and I think that’s a sign of a great staff.”
Head coach calls out a few players after the win
McDermott opened the press conference as he normally does, thanking God and the fans in attendance before giving a special shout-out to some of the players.
“Glory to God [ . . . ] great win, appreciate all the Buffalo fans that were here to support us today,” McDermott said. “Resilient, tough football team. When you’re down like we were at halftime, felt like the staff did a great job making adjustments, players executed, point out a couple of guys here just to celebrate.”
While quarterback Josh Allen was the focal point of the win, plenty of players showed up and showed out, helping the team secure the victory.
Running back and kick returner Ray Davis, linebacker Matt Milano, cornerback Tre’Davious White, running back James Cook, and tight end Dawson Knox were all called out by the head coach in the best way possible.
“Ray Davis, big-time, couple of big-time kickoff returns that helped set up field position for us and scoring opportunities,” McDermott said. “Milano had two sacks, and Tre White had an interception, which is a big-time play for us there. James Cook, over 100 yards, credit the O-line as well, and everybody involved in our offensive running game.
“And then Dawson Knox, one week, holy smokes. Having a new baby, he and his wife, congratulations to them, and then two touchdowns today. He set the record for Buffalo Bills all-time leading touchdown receptions as a tight end. Great award, great honor, and a great leader as well of our football team.”
Buffalo still has some things it needs to clean up on both sides of the ball, but one thing it doesn’t have to work on is its resiliency. Ultimately, the Bills once again proved why they remain one of the most dangerous teams in the NFL.
Even when things aren’t clicking early, they have the pieces to respond when all hope feels lost. With contributions coming from all sides and key players stepping up in big moments, Buffalo left Foxborough with a hard-earned win and plenty to build on as they continue pushing toward the playoffs.