End of the Line for New England

Image by AL.com (AP Photo/Greg M. Cooper)

New England’s playoff dreams went unnoticed after a 23-35 loss to the Buffalo Bills during the Week 18 matchup on Sunday.  

Despite a great start, the Patriots were unable to hold off the Bills from outscoring them on special teams as running back Nyheim Hines scored two touchdowns on kick returns. Hines was able to amass 235 yards during the game on returns, mostly due to having one 96-yard run and one 101-yard run.  

DeVante Parker returned for the matchup and took charge of the receivers with six receptions for 79 yards and two TDs.  

The rest of the receivers seemed to have relatively quiet games as the Patriots utilized the ground game against the Bills with Rhamondre Stevenson taking the reins for 54 yards over six carries.  

After Hamlin’s medical emergency in Week 17, all teams in the NFL sports the number 3 to show love and support, but none more than the Buffalo Bills. The Bills felt a requirement to win, and their inspiration carried over to their performances on the field against New England. 

One of the downfalls of New England though was Jordan Poyer’s outstanding performance throughout the game. The Bills’ safety racked up seven solo tackles with nine total tackles against the Patriots.  

Even with Mac Jones throwing for 243 yards and three touchdowns, he totaled three interceptions as well which gave the Bills further opportunities to increase their lead.  

The New England Patriots played a better game than they have throughout the rest of the season, but all they must look forward to now is the draft and next season.