AFC East Matchup: Bills Seek Two Seed Against Jets in Week 17
The New York Jets and Buffalo Bills will square off for the second and final time this season in Week 17, this time at Highmark Stadium in Buffalo, NY. The Jets, entering the game with a 4-11 record, are looking to end a disappointing season on a positive note. In contrast, the Bills, sitting at 12-3 and fresh off clinching their fifth consecutive AFC East title, have their sights set on securing the number two seed in the AFC playoff race. After a tight 23-20 victory in their Week Six meeting, the Bills are looking to complete a season sweep while the Jets look to salvage a challenging season.
The Jets have gone 2-7 since their last matchup with Buffalo, including six losses in games where they held a fourth-quarter lead. Despite occasional flashes of offensive potential, they’ve struggled to maintain consistency. Veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers is just one touchdown pass away from reaching the 500 mark in the regular season, and he’ll look to his familiar connection with Davante Adams to help reach that milestone. Meanwhile, Garrett Wilson, who voiced his frustration after last week’s loss to the Rams, hopes for more opportunities in Week 17.
The Bills, sitting at 12-3, have had a standout season since their last meeting with the Jets, going 9-1 and securing their fifth consecutive AFC East title. Running back James Cook, currently at 928 rushing yards, will look to surpass the 1,000-yard in back-to-back seasons. Quarterback Josh Allen, with 38 offensive touchdowns this season, aims to add to his tally and reignite MVP conversations with a standout performance. Although their hopes for the top seed were taken earlier this week when the Kansas City Chiefs locked up home-field advantage, the Bills remain motivated, with the Baltimore Ravens close behind at 11-5. A win on Sunday would secure the number two seed, allowing Buffalo to rest its starters in Week 18 if desired. Buffalo’s offense, led by MVP candidate Josh Allen, has been explosive, averaging over 31 points per game since mid-October. Despite their strong record, the Bills have struggled defensively in recent weeks, giving up significant yardage, and the Jets will look to capitalize on those vulnerabilities.
This divisional Week 17 game offers the Jets a chance to head into the final weeks of their season on a positive note while the Bills aim to secure the number two seed and build momentum heading into the postseason. Both teams are familiar with each other’s strengths and weaknesses, making for an exciting divisional matchup filled with key milestones and pride on the line. Josh Allen looks to prove himself as an MVP candidate and help his team continue their dominant season. Meanwhile, can the Jets find the team chemistry they’ve been searching for?
