Why the playoff narrative surrounding Josh Allen is incredibly foolish
There is a false narrative running rampant in NFL circles regarding Bills QB Josh Allen’s ability, or lack thereof, to win in the playoffs. Allen did not play his best football in Buffalo’s AFC Divisional Round loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. He finished the day 15/42 for 265 yards passing and one interception. He tacked […]
There is a false narrative running rampant in NFL circles regarding Bills QB Josh Allen’s ability, or lack thereof, to win in the playoffs.
Allen did not play his best football in Buffalo’s AFC Divisional Round loss to the Cincinnati Bengals. He finished the day 15/42 for 265 yards passing and one interception. He tacked on a team-high 26 rushing yards, adding one touchdown on the ground.
It was a frustrating outing for the Bills’ high-powered offense with snow coming down in Orchard Park. That being said, the Bills’ postseason shortcomings over the last few years should not be pinned on Allen.
Sure, his 4-4 record in the postseason has been at the heart of the discussion on Allen’s past playoff performances.
In his eight playoff starts, Allen is 197/309 (63.8%), passing for 2,335 yards (291.9 YPG), 17 touchdowns and four interceptions. In 2021, Allen had the highest quarterback rating in playoff history at 149.0, throwing nine touchdowns to zero interceptions.
The problem in today’s world is that box score warriors are quick to use wins as a quarterback stat so long as it helps further their agenda.
Over the years, the Bills have been letdown by a meager running game and a weak pass rush. Unfortunately, it's the quarterback who, oftentimes unfairly, shoulders the brunt of the blame in losing efforts.
It’s going to be a long offseason for the Bills with plenty of tough decisions to make on some of the team’s veterans. However, the Bills have stability at the most important position on the roster. That’s because Allen has proven time and time again that he is more than capable of bringing a Lombardi Trophy to Buffalo.
Featured image via Tina MacIntyre-Yee / USA TODAY Sports
