Josh Allen’s Rushing Touchdowns Propel Bills Past Jaguars in Wild-Card Thriller
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — The Buffalo Bills ended a long-standing playoff road game drought Sunday, edging the Jacksonville Jaguars 27-24 in a dramatic wild-card round showdown. Quarterback Josh Allen emerged as the hero, rushing for two touchdowns including the game-winning score in the final moments of the contest.
Allen, who had been winless in four previous road playoff appearances, showcased his dual-threat capabilities throughout the game. His ability to scramble and find openings on the ground proved decisive, especially in the fourth quarter when the Bills faced a 24-20 deficit. The Jaguars had taken the lead on a 14-yard touchdown catch by Travis Etienne Jr., who broke a tackle and sprinted into the end zone, electrifying the home crowd.
Despite the hostile environment at EverBank Stadium, Allen maintained composure and orchestrated a critical drive late in the game. One of his pivotal plays came on a 36-yard pass to Brandin Cooks, who contributed 58 receiving yards on three catches, flipping field position and setting up Buffalo deep in Jacksonville territory.
Facing a fourth-and-inches situation at the Jaguars’ 11-yard line, the Bills executed a version of the “tush push” — a quarterback sneak where teammates help propel the runner forward. Allen not only converted the first down but was pushed nearly 10 yards, nearly scoring. After officials overturned an initial touchdown call, Buffalo returned to the ground game and Allen was again pushed into the end zone, sealing the victory with just over a minute remaining.
This win marks Buffalo’s seventh consecutive playoff appearance, a streak that has yet to culminate in a Super Bowl title. Analysts and fans alike have questioned whether this season represents a “Super Bowl or bust” scenario for the Bills and their star quarterback. Allen’s performance Sunday, combining passing and rushing prowess, suggests the team is peaking at the right time.
The Bills’ kicker, Cam Little, who recently reset the NFL’s record for the longest made field goal, also played a key role in the victory, adding crucial points to keep Buffalo ahead.
For more on NFL playoff dynamics and team statistics, visit the NFL’s official site. The ESPN NFL section provides in-depth game analyses and player profiles. Fans interested in the history and rules surrounding playoff strategies like the “tush push” can consult the Pro Football Hall of Fame resources. For official NFL game rules and regulations, the NFL Operations website offers comprehensive information.
As the Bills advance, all eyes will be on Allen to see if he can continue his playoff heroics and finally lead Buffalo to its elusive Super Bowl triumph.
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