Buffalo Bills overpower Steelers as Josh Allen sets new rushing touchdown record
The Buffalo Bills entered their matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers with a cloud of uncertainty hanging over them, especially after a dismal performance against the Texans just a week prior. Questions loomed: How would the newly acquired wide receiver Brandin Cooks enhance the offense? Could the team navigate the challenges posed by injuries to both offensive tackles, Dion Dawkins and Spencer Brown? Fans were understandably anxious, but the Bills delivered a decisive answer, emerging victorious with a 26-7 win. This crucial victory keeps the Bills firmly in the AFC playoff race, currently seated at No. 7. While some concerns remain, the team left Pittsburgh with a much-needed boost.
Historic ground game at Acrisure Stadium
Buffalo’s rushing attack dominated the field, led by running back James Cook III, who amassed an impressive 144 yards on 32 carries, averaging 4.5 yards per attempt. Cook also contributed in the passing game, leading the team with three receptions for 33 yards. As a unit, the Bills racked up 249 rushing yards, which not only set a record for the most rushing yards by a visiting team at Acrisure Stadium but also marked the highest total against the Steelers since the Bills eclipsed 300 rushing yards back in 1975.
Josh Allen breaks records with his feet
In addition to Cook’s stellar performance, quarterback Josh Allen etched his name in the record books by scoring his 76th rushing touchdown, surpassing Cam Newton’s previous record. Allen’s overall stats included 123 passing yards, with 15 completions on 23 attempts, and he added 38 yards on the ground. The game plan, which emphasized a ground-heavy approach, proved to be advantageous given the blustery conditions and the absence of both starting tackles.
Defensive dominance against the Steelers
On the defensive side, the Bills delivered an impressive outing, maintaining possession for nearly 42 minutes while limiting the Steelers to just around 18 minutes of offensive time. Despite previous criticisms of the defense this season, they answered the call, allowing only 166 total yards and a mere seven points. The Bills’ defense forced two critical turnovers in the second half, including a scoop and score by Christian Benford following a strip sack from Joey Bosa.
Challenges in the passing game
Despite the win, the Bills’ passing game remains a point of concern. Allen’s limited attempts—only 23 in total—reflect the team’s strategy to focus on the run, yet among his 15 completions, only four were directed toward outside wide receivers, yielding just 27 yards. The longest completion of the day was a modest 16 yards. Cook, tight end Dawson Knox, and running back Ty Johnson each tied for the team lead with three receptions, but none exceeded 33 yards receiving.
As the Bills continue to navigate their season, they look to build on this performance while addressing the challenges presented in the passing game. The road ahead may be tough, but for now, they celebrate a significant victory in Pittsburgh.
