Fansided

Bills can compete for playoffs behind Josh Allen and defense

By Brandon Croce

BUFFALO, NY - DECEMBER 30: Josh Allen #17 of the Buffalo Bills calls an audible in the first quarter during NFL game action against the Miami Dolphins at New Era Field on December 30, 2018 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)
BUFFALO, NY - DECEMBER 30: Josh Allen #17 of the Buffalo Bills calls an audible in the first quarter during NFL game action against the Miami Dolphins at New Era Field on December 30, 2018 in Buffalo, New York. (Photo by Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images) /
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Behind a strong defense and their strong-armed youngster at quarterback, the Buffalo Bills could be primed to make noise in the AFC East.

Best-case scenario

Their second playoff appearance in three seasons. The expectation is the defense will be able to duplicate its production from a season ago but it would need Josh Allen to take that next step as the franchise quarterback and lead the re-tooled offense.

Worst-case scenario

Another losing season and the offense not taking the next step. This could be due to a multitude of reasons ranging from the offensive line not coming together or Allen continuing to struggle with his completion percentage.

Confidence level (Low, medium or high)

High.

This doesn’t necessarily mean playoffs but head coach Sean McDermott has already proven no matter the talent, this is a prepared football team that will play hard the entire game.

X-Factor

Mitch Morse.

The team made Morse the highest-paid center in the NFL and is expected to be the anchor of the rebuilt offensive line. If the offense will be successful it will start up front and Morse will be pivotal.

Turning point

Thanksgiving Day against the Dallas Cowboys.

It is their only nationally-televised game this year and they will need to get a win as they face their toughest stretch of games after Thanksgiving with games against Ravens, Steelers and Patriots.

Best moment in team history

The Comeback.

The Bills, led by backup quarterback Frank Reich, came back from 32 points down in the second half to win 41-38 in overtime in the 1992 Wild Card game against the Houston Oilers. This still is the record for the biggest comeback in NFL history.