In a Week 15 matchup packed with fireworks, the Buffalo Bills edged out the Detroit Lions 48-42 in a game that showcased quarterback Josh Allen’s brilliance and ended Detroit’s franchise-record 11-game winning streak. Allen’s MVP-caliber performance proved decisive in a game that felt like a potential Super Bowl preview.
The dual-threat quarterback dazzled throughout the contest, completing 23 of 34 passes for a season-high 362 yards and two touchdowns, while adding 68 yards and two rushing scores on 11 carries. Allen’s unique ability to extend plays and create opportunities with his arm and legs kept the Lions’ banged-up defense guessing all afternoon.
One highlight of the game came on a seemingly routine play: Allen took a shotgun snap, moved up in the pocket, backed up, rolled to his left, and threw a laser to James Cook for a 28-yard gain. It was a microcosm of Allen’s playmaking genius, combining mobility, patience, and precision.
“That’s just Josh being Josh,” said Bills head coach Sean McDermott. “He has a way of turning broken plays into something special.”
Allen’s mastery was evident early, as he rushed for two touchdowns in the first quarter. In the second half, he connected with Khalil Shakir and Ray Davis for touchdown passes, helping the AFC East-champion Bills (11-3) to their eighth win in nine games. The victory also extended Buffalo’s franchise record of scoring 30-plus points in eight consecutive games, a feat last achieved by the 2013 Denver Broncos.
The Lions (12-2), led by quarterback Jared Goff, refused to go quietly. Goff tied a career high with five touchdown passes, including a 66-yard bomb to Amon-Ra St. Brown on a third-and-17 and a late 3-yard score to Jameson Williams with just 12 seconds left. Goff’s heroics gave Detroit a chance to attempt an onside kick, but the Bills recovered, sealing the win.
“Jared played his heart out,” said Lions head coach Dan Campbell. “We fought until the end, but Josh Allen made the plays that won the game.”
Detroit’s loss opened the door for the Minnesota Vikings to potentially tie them atop the NFC North with a win against Chicago on Monday night. Despite the setback, the Lions showcased their resilience and offensive firepower.
The game featured a plethora of big plays as Allen connected with former Lions running back Ty Johnson on a pair of passes totaling 57 yards, setting up his own 1-yard touchdown sneak. James Cook added a 6-yard touchdown run in the second quarter following a 31-yard reception by Johnson on fourth-and-2. Goff pulled off a trick play by hitting offensive lineman Dan Skipper, who had reported as eligible, for a 9-yard touchdown pass.
Detroit clawed back in the second half, with Jahmyr Gibbs scoring two touchdowns. Campbell’s aggressive play-calling, including a successful fourth-down conversion and an onside kick attempt, kept the Lions within striking distance.
The Bills became only the second team in NFL history, joining the 1966 New York Giants, to score 40-plus points in consecutive games while allowing 40 or more. This game came on the heels of Buffalo’s 44-42 loss to the Los Angeles Rams in Week 14, highlighting both the team’s offensive prowess and defensive vulnerabilities.
The Bills (11-3) return home to host the New England Patriots on Sunday, aiming to maintain their momentum as they gear up for the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Lions (12-2) will look to bounce back on the road against the Chicago Bears.
With Allen at the peak of his powers and Goff leading a dangerous Lions offense, both teams remain strong contenders as the NFL season approaches its climax.
