Bills' LB Matt Milano Shines in OT Loss to Jets

The Buffalo Bills' defense played well in Monday night's loss, headlined by veteran linebacker Matt Milano.

Turnovers were the story of the Buffalo Bills’ Week 1 loss at MetLife Stadium. They fell to the New York Jets on Monday Night Football, 22-16, and lost the turnover battle, four to one.

Quarterback Josh Allen committed all four turnovers, spoiling a strong defensive performance. That defense, however, earned itself some confidence. A big game from linebacker Matt Milano wasn’t enough to clinch a victory, but should soften the blow heading into Week 2.

Milano made an impact early and often against the Jets. Late in the first quarter, he flew into the backfield to tackle running back Dalvin Cook for a four-yard loss. The tackle for loss put New York in an obvious passing situation, leading to a drive-ending sack from defensive tackle Jordan Phillips.

Matt Milano ▶️ picks off Wilson
Zach Wilson ▶️ hit-sticks Milano
Matt Milano ▶️ taunts Wilson#MNF is back❕pic.twitter.com/PcRz2W6r2h

— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) September 12, 2023

Two drives later, he would close the book on another drive, intercepting backup quarterback Zach Wilson, who entered after an Aaron Rodgers injury. The interception put the Bills in Jets’ territory, despite the taunting penalty given to Milano after the play. Buffalo would kick a field goal on the ensuing drive to go into the half leading 13-3.

© Vincent Carchietta, USA TODAY

In total, Milano racked up eight tackles, a pick, a tackle for loss, and a quarterback hit. Ultimately, it wasn’t enough to escape MetLife Stadium with a win.

“Can’t play two guys,” Allen said. “Can’t play them and us, and I played us tonight.”

Allen was understandably hard on himself after the loss, eventually comparing Monday to last season’s turnover woes. He took accountability for his performance multiple times.

“We prepared so hard, the effort was there, our guys played so hard,” Allen said. “The defense gave us opportunities. They played a heck of a game. It sucks when you feel like you’re the reason—and I am the reason—we lost tonight.”

The Bills can bank on Allen returning to form next week against the Las Vegas Raiders. If Milano can continue to hold down the fort on the other side of the ball, Buffalo will have ample opportunities to make up ground in a hotly-contested AFC East.