The Buffalo Bills will host the New York Jets in a pivotal NFL Week 18 matchup today at 4:25 p.m. ET at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, New York. With a record of 11-5, the Bills have already secured a playoff berth, despite the New England Patriots winning the division title. The game will be broadcast live on CBS, with streaming options available through DIRECTV, fuboTV, and Sling TV.
Playoff Preparations and Stadium Farewell
As the Bills prepare for their season finale, head coach Sean McDermott faces important decisions regarding his lineup. Balancing the need to rest players while ensuring a competitive spirit, McDermott aims to honor Highmark Stadium, which could be hosting its final game. “It’s a unique place,” he stated, emphasizing his desire to cherish every moment.
Despite clinching their playoff spot, the Bills cannot improve their seeding beyond the No. 5 position, meaning they will begin the postseason on the road. Quarterback Josh Allen, dealing with a sore right foot, is expected to extend his starting streak to 135 games, the longest active run in the NFL. Meanwhile, running back James Cook is just 47 yards away from potentially becoming the Bills’ first rushing champion since O.J. Simpson in 1976.
McDermott’s strategy will involve resting key players while still aiming for a victory to conclude the stadium’s legacy on a high note. “We want to close the stadium with a win,” he noted.
Jets’ Struggles and Looking Ahead
On the other side, the Jets, under first-year coach Aaron Glenn, have endured a challenging season, extending their playoff drought to a 15th year. With a dismal record of 3-13 and having been outscored 153-46 in their last four games, the team is eager to find a silver lining in their final matchup. Glenn remarked, “It gives us another chance to play against a good playoff team,” acknowledging the need for improvement in both strengths and weaknesses.
Concerns linger regarding Glenn’s future with the Jets, but tight end Jeremy Ruckert expressed confidence in his coach, stating, “He truly cares about this team. You can see every day how much time and love he puts into us.”
The Jets also face a unique challenge, as they are on the verge of setting an NFL record for the most consecutive games without an interception, currently standing at 16. Failing to secure a pick in today’s game would mark the first time a team has gone an entire season without an interception. Interim defensive coordinator Chris Harris acknowledged the situation as “bizarre,” but remains optimistic about the team’s work ethic.
Rookie quarterback Brady Cook is expected to make his fourth consecutive start, a significant achievement after beginning the season on the practice squad. Cook has remained unfazed by his late-season starting role, stating, “Honestly, not a ton of big surprises.”
As the Bills and Jets prepare to clash, the stakes may be lower for Buffalo, but the emotional weight of the game is significant as they bid farewell to a storied venue. Coach McDermott reflected on the stadium’s history, which includes memorable moments with past legends and its role as a backdrop for various events. “It’s been a special place for a lot of people,” he remarked.
With the game set to commence shortly, fans can expect an exciting encounter as both teams aim to conclude their seasons with pride.
