New England Patriots (4-13) – Buffalo Bills (13-4) : 23-16
New England needed a loss to have the first pick in the Draft. Unfortunately, the Patriots’ linebackers decided otherwise. Led by a very good Joe Milton, New England offers itself a prestigious victory for the last week of the regular season.
The Bills had nothing at stake in this meeting. It was therefore an opportunity for Sean McDermott to rotate the squad for the following matches and seasons.
Hot debut for Joe Milton
After the symbolic actions of certain players (series in progress for Josh Allen, a sack for Von Miller), the game loosens up a little.
Replacing Drake Maye, Joe Milton (22/21, 256 yards, 2 TDs) is far from being intimidated for his first meeting in the NFL. He completed his first 10 career passes, including an extra improvisation for a touchdown to Kayshon Boutte. But first, the rookie quarterback shows that he is also a threat on the ground, with a touchdown to open the scoring.
Replacing Josh Allen, Mitch Trubisky started the match badly, losing the ball on the 4th attempt. Then, he makes up for it with a touchdown for Ray Davis (15 races, 65 yards, TD). The former Bear looks good, but fails to put the Bills in front before halftime.
New England resists Bills replacements
In the second half, only one touchdown will be scored. He will be marked by James Cook, who exceeds 1000 yards rushing for the 2nd consecutive season. Then, the Bills put Mike White (3/11, 28 yards) in place of Trubisky. Unfortunately, the Bills’ number 3 quarterback does not experience the same success as his predecessor.
The New England defense puts him in check on 2 passing situations on the 4th attempt. One of them was for a potential equalizer late in the match. Opposite, Joe Milton continues his good game, despite his fumble leading to the Bills running back’s touchdown. The Patriots will therefore be content to score 6 more points for a draw in the second half.
A prestigious victory therefore, but one which could take them out of the top 3 of the next Draft.
