In an exciting NFL encounter, the Buffalo Bills achieved an epic victory against the Baltimore Ravens with a final score of 41-40.
Prater, the Unexpected Hero
Kicker Matt Prater, who joined the team on Thursday, was key to the victory. After an overnight flight, Prater took on the responsibility of replacing Tyler Bass, who was on the injured list. Before the game, Prater promised Josh Allen to give it his all, and he kept his word by scoring the game-winning 32-yard field goal as time expired.
Allen Leads the Comeback
Josh Allen, the Bills’ star quarterback, had an outstanding performance. Despite a 15-point deficit in the last four minutes, Allen led the Bills’ offense to overcome Lamar Jackson, the Ravens’ quarterback.
“I’m proud of our team for not giving up,” Allen said.
Josh Allen
Allen threw for the most passing yards in a quarter of his career (251) in the final period, becoming the first player with 250 passing yards and two rushing touchdowns in a quarter since at least 1978. He finished the game with 394 passing yards and two touchdowns.
Records and statistics
The Bills made history by being the first team in the NFL to overcome a 15-point deficit in the final four minutes of an opening game. In addition, they extended their home winning streak to 12 games and won the turnover battle for 23 consecutive games, the longest streak in NFL history.
The team outgained the Ravens in total yards (497-432). Prater made all three field goal attempts he had.
Team Reactions
Tight end Keon Coleman praised Allen, and Joshua Palmer called him “inspiring”.
Bills coach Sean McDermott highlighted the team’s preparation in pressure situations.
The Bills’ defense struggled for much of the game, but managed to stop the Ravens on their last three possessions. Ed Oliver forced a key fumble from Derrick Henry.
Derrick Henry took responsibility for the loss due to a fumble in the final quarter.
The Ravens suffered their fifth loss after leading by 10 or more points in the fourth quarter since 2019, tied with the Chicago Bears for the most in the NFL during that period.
Dion Dawkins, Bills left tackle, noted that the team must keep perspective and prepare for the next game.
