'Just Trying to Be Me!' Josh Allen Leads Bills Bounce-Back Over Raiders
After a rough opening loss to the division-rival New York Jets and subsequent drama, the Buffalo Bills desperately needed a bounce-back performance.
They got that and then some on Sunday as they dismantled the Las Vegas Raiders 38-10 for their first win of the season.
Star quarterback Josh Allen was arguably the Bills player most in need of a rebound after a four-turnover game on Monday, and he absolutely delivered. The sixth-year quarterback completed 31 of 37 passes for 274 yards, three touchdowns and no turnovers, arguably the most important stat from his outstanding game. Allen's quarterback rating of 124.5 is his best since Week 5 of last season.
CBS asked Josh Allen what he was trying to accomplish this week entering the game.
“Just trying to be me,'' the QB replied.
On the ground, running back James Cook had himself a day with 123 yards on 17 carries as he continues to cement himself as the feature back. Damien Harris had 33 yards on seven carries and Latavius Murray had 22 yards on six attempts, and both players scored their first touchdowns as Bills.
Gabe Davis led the way in receiving with 92 yards and a touchdown on six catches, while Stefon Diggs added 66 yards on seven receptions. Tight end Dawson Knox and receiver Khalil Shakir each scored their first touchdowns of the season as well.
While the offense turned in a strong performance, the defense deserves its flowers as well. Buffalo held Vegas to just 230 total yards, including only 55 on the ground with Josh Jacobs, who led the league in rushing last season, finishing with -2 yards on nine carries.
The Bills were also on the right side of the turnover battle this time around, forcing three while giving up none of their own. Linebackers Matt Milano and Terrel Bernard each had interceptions, while safety Taylor Rapp recovered a late fumble to ice the game, if it wasn't over already.
With the win, the Bills improve to 1-1 on the season, while the Raiders fell to the same record.
Next up, the Bills hit the road again to face the Washington Commanders on Sept. 24.
