The Buffalo Bills are starting to look like a team that knows exactly what it wants to be down the stretch - a run-first offense powered by a backfield that’s finding its rhythm at just the right time. And after a gutsy comeback win over the New England Patriots, Buffalo’s playoff hopes are still very much alive, with the AFC East title still within reach - albeit barely.
At the heart of this offensive identity is James Cook, who’s not just leading the charge - he’s setting the tone. The Pro Bowler put up 107 yards and two touchdowns on the ground in Sunday’s win, showcasing the kind of explosiveness and vision that’s made him one of the most dynamic backs in the league this season. But what makes this Bills rushing attack particularly intriguing is the depth behind Cook - and how offensive coordinator Joe Brady is trying to tap into it.
Ray Davis and Ty Johnson aren’t just filling in - they’re carving out distinct roles that are helping Buffalo win games in different ways. Davis has become a weapon on special teams, giving the Bills a jolt in the return game that’s been missing for much of the year. Johnson, meanwhile, made his biggest impact as a pass-catcher out of the backfield, coming through in the clutch to help seal the win late.
Brady knows he’s got a good problem on his hands - three running backs who can contribute in meaningful ways, but only so many touches to go around.
“It’s a tough balance,” Brady said. “It’s a great problem to have with the running back room that we have.”
He’s not wrong. Cook is playing at a Pro Bowl level, and when you’ve got a back that hot, you ride him.
But Brady’s also making it clear that he’s looking for ways to get Davis and Johnson involved - sometimes even at the same time. That kind of creativity could be key as the Bills push toward the postseason.
Now, the big question: Can Buffalo actually win the AFC East?
Mathematically, yes. Realistically, it’s an uphill climb.
The Bills are just one game back of the Patriots with three games to play. But the path to the division crown is narrow.
Buffalo would need to win out - no small task - while hoping New England drops at least two of its final three games. And with the Ravens, Jets, and Dolphins still on the Patriots’ schedule, that’s not entirely out of the realm of possibility.
Still, even after Sunday’s dramatic win, it feels like the Bills are fighting against the clock. There’s a sense that the division might be slipping away - unless something breaks just right.
But here’s the thing: Buffalo’s still breathing. And in mid-December, that’s all you can really ask for.
They’ve got momentum, a surging ground game, and a defense that’s keeping them in games. If the Patriots falter, the Bills will be right there, ready to pounce.
And with the way this team is starting to click - especially on the ground - they might just have enough juice to make things interesting down the stretch.