ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — In a thrilling matchup on Sunday, Josh Allen showcased his dual-threat capabilities, throwing two touchdown passes and rushing for another as the Buffalo Bills defeated the New Orleans Saints 31-19. Despite a rough start, the Bills maintained their undefeated streak, improving to 4-0 this season.
The game remained competitive until the fourth quarter, with the Bills leading 21-19 at one point. It wasn't until 7:07 remained that Allen connected with a wide-open Dalton Kincaid for a crucial 28-yard touchdown, solidifying Buffalo's lead. This pivotal play followed an impressive 27-yard scramble by Allen, where he broke multiple tackles, showcasing his determination and athleticism.
Allen completed 16 of 22 passes for a total of 209 yards, marking his first interception of the season. Meanwhile, James Cook had a standout performance with 117 rushing yards and a touchdown, further bolstering the Bills' offensive efforts.
The Bills, who have dominated the AFC East for five consecutive years, celebrated their 4-0 start for the 10th time in franchise history, and the first since 2020. Moreover, they secured their 14th straight regular-season victory at home, just one win shy of matching the franchise record set during the 1990-91 seasons.
On the other hand, the Saints struggled, marking their 0-4 start for the ninth time in franchise history and their first since 2012. They've now lost eight consecutive games, the longest losing streak since suffering 14 straight losses in 1980. Although the Saints demonstrated resilience, they failed to capitalize on key opportunities, especially after a dismal 44-13 loss to Seattle the previous week.
New Orleans quarterback Spencer Rattler completed 18 of 27 passes for 126 yards, including a 3-yard touchdown to Chris Olave. Kendre Miller contributed with an 18-yard rushing touchdown and finished with 65 yards on the ground. Despite entering the game as 16.5-point underdogs, the Saints couldn't convert on numerous drives that penetrated Buffalo territory, with their first nine drives ending without a touchdown.
In a series of missed opportunities, the Saints could only muster two field goals from drives that began in Buffalo's territory. Furthermore, an interception thrown by Olave on a trick play compounded their problems, as safety Cole Bishop intercepted the pass intended for Rattler at the goal line.
Buffalo's defense proved clutch in the game’s final moments. After Kincaid's touchdown, the Saints turned the ball over on downs when Tre'Davious White stopped Alvin Kamara on a crucial fourth-and-4 play. An additional penalty for running into the punter further sealed New Orleans' fate, allowing the Bills to run down the clock effectively. Matt Prater capped off the scoring with a 35-yard field goal, leaving just 2:09 on the clock.
This game also marked several notable milestones. Saints defensive end Cameron Jordan made his 229th career start, breaking the franchise record he previously shared with Drew Brees. Meanwhile, James Cook extended his streak of games with a rushing touchdown to eight, setting a new Bills record previously held by legends like Cookie Gilchrist, O.J. Simpson, and Robb Riddick. Additionally, Josh Allen tied Cam Newton for the NFL career record with his 45th game featuring both a passing and rushing touchdown.
Looking ahead, the Saints will host the New York Giants next Sunday, aiming to secure their first win of the season. Meanwhile, the Bills are set to face New England in a prime-time matchup next Sunday, completing a three-game homestand and looking to continue their undefeated streak.
