Archives for January 23, 2025

‘“I think it’s maybe changed since I’ve gotten into the league,” Allen said, referring to his demeanor on a playoff week when he first led the Bills to the playoffs, in 2019. “Early on it was maybe anxiousness and eagerness. And while that’s maybe still there a little bit, but also gratefulness to be back in this situation of having a chance to play in the Super Bowl. But obviously, you’ve got to go put in the work and not cheat it and put your best foot forward to give yourself a shot.”’

‘“I’ve played against Josh enough times to know he’s going to come out and play great football, especially in those big moments,” Mahomes said. “For me, I have to play my best when I get the opportunity.”’

‘In his 10-year career, Cooper has reached the playoffs five times. He’s played in seven total playoff games, with his previous furthest advancement in the 2018-19 season with the Dallas Cowboys. Then, he and the Cowboys made it to the divisional round, where they fell 30-22 to the Los Angeles Rams.’

‘Josh Allen is arguably the most beloved and likable athlete in Western New York history as he attempts to erase the demons and get the Bills back to the Super Bowl for the first time in more than 30 years. But you really need to get away from the Buffalo area to appreciate just how that likability has transformed the Bills from a national laughingstock that didn’t make the playoffs for 17 straight seasons into a team whose fans include broadcasters who are not supposed to have a rooting interest.’