Buffalo Bills’ Key Week 12 Matchups Impacting AFC Playoff Race
The Buffalo Bills experienced a favorable Week 11, marked by a substantial victory against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at their home ground in Orchard Park, New York. Their win, alongside losses from several competitive teams, has enabled the Bills to inch closer in the AFC playoff race. However, they remain one and a half games behind the New England Patriots in the AFC East as they prepare for their upcoming matchup.
AFC East Standings Before Week 12
- New England Patriots: 9-2
- Buffalo Bills: 7-3
- Miami Dolphins: 4-7
- New York Jets: 2-8
AFC Playoff Picture
- Denver Broncos: 9-2
- New England Patriots: 9-2
- Indianapolis Colts: 8-2
- Pittsburgh Steelers: 6-4
- Buffalo Bills: 7-3
- Los Angeles Chargers: 7-4
- Jacksonville Jaguars: 6-4
- Houston Texans: 5-5
- Kansas City Chiefs: 5-5
- Baltimore Ravens: 5-5
The Bills will face the Houston Texans on Thursday Night Football, seeking their first win in Houston since 2006. Achieving this victory would solidify their position as the fifth seed in the AFC Playoff Picture. Josh Allen has yet to triumph in Houston, and the Bills face a Texans team bolstered by backup quarterback Davis Mills, who has led them to consecutive victories.
Key Matchups Impacting the Bills’ Playoff Hopes
Buffalo Bills vs. Houston Texans
Kickoff is set for 8:15 p.m. EST on Prime Video. A win is crucial for the Bills, keeping them in contention for the playoffs and setting up a potential showdown against the Patriots in Week 15.
New York Jets vs. Baltimore Ravens
- Date: Sunday, 1 p.m. EST (CBS)
- Scenario: A Jets win would aid the Bills by keeping the Ravens from improving their playoff position.
Cincinnati Bengals vs. New England Patriots
- Date: Sunday, 1 p.m. EST (CBS)
- Importance: A Bengals victory could help the Bills regain control over their playoff destiny.
Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Chicago Bears
- Date: Sunday, 1 p.m. EST (CBS)
- Context: A Steelers loss would benefit the Bills as they look to improve their standing.
Kansas City Chiefs vs. Indianapolis Colts
- Date: Sunday, 1 p.m. EST (CBS)
- Outlook: Bills fans should root for the Chiefs to enhance their Strength of Victory (SOV) score.
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Arizona Cardinals
- Date: Sunday, 4:05 p.m. EST (CBS)
- Goal: A Jaguars win can hinder other competitors in the playoff race.
Conclusion
As the Bills prepare for Week 12, they face several pivotal matchups that could shape their playoff journey. Every game matters in this critical stretch, and the Bills’ fans have clear rooting interests to enhance their team’s chances. The Buffalo Bills must capitalize on their opportunities to remain a strong contender in the AFC playoff race.
