The Buffalo Bills were considered one of the favorites to challenge the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC. The Bills started their season with a Week 1 matchup against the Arizona Cardinals, and the expectation was that Buffalo would roll to a win.
Whether they were already looking past the Cardinals or were just unprepared, Arizona not only hung in the game but went into halftime leading 17-10.
Quarterback Josh Allen wasn't used early, as at the start of the second quarter, he had only attempted two passes. Buffalo's game plan was to keep the ball on the ground, and that held true to a 34-28 victory. The benefit is that Allen is skilled as a runner. The negative is that while he could force the ball into the endzone, he would take more hits.
The Buffalo quarterback scored a touchdown in the fourth quarter but had to be checked out on the sidelines afterward. Here are updates on his injury.
Josh Allen injury update
Allen dove into the endzone after hurdling an Arizona defender. He landed awkwardly and was examined by medical staff on the sideline. The good news is that the injury is to his non-throwing hand, but it still will be something to monitor going forward to see if it hinders his ability to receive the ball from the center.
Josh Allen makes this look regular…. pic.twitter.com/3UZSFKZvJL
— Carl Jones (@Jones11_) September 8, 2024
In the postgame media conference, the quarterback said he is fine, but adrenaline might still be running high. Allen will also be getting X-rays on his hand. It was wrapped and taped by the end of the game.
On his hand/wrist #Bills QB Josh Allen says "I'm fine."
— Dom Tibbetts (@DomTibbettsTV) September 8, 2024
Little shaky but you can see it wrapped/taped up as he walks off the field
It will require X-rays...and Buffalo is on a short week@WKBW pic.twitter.com/wF4lFIMqrI
Sean McDermott confirmed Monday that the injury isn't serious and said Allen has been cleared to practice. Allen is also fully expected to play on Thursday night against the Dolphins.
Bills HC Sean McDermott says QB Josh Allen has been cleared to practice Monday and play in the game Thursday.
— Joe Buscaglia (@JoeBuscaglia) September 9, 2024
Buffalo Bills Upcoming Schedule
Buffalo is on a short week for Week 2, so any lingering injury to Allen is much more concerning.
- Week 2 @ Miami for Thursday Night Football 9/12
- Week 3 vs. Jacksonville Jaguars for Monday Night Football 9/23
- Week 4 @ Baltimore Ravens for Sunday Night Football 9/29
