Sporting the NFL’s second-best record at 9-2, the Bills enjoyed a well-deserved bye week after handing the Chiefs their first loss of the season in Week 11.
With a big game against the 49ers this coming Sunday back at Orchard Park, it’s no surprise to find Buffalo firmly inside the Top 5 in this week’s Power Rankings around the league, with some experts ranking Sean McDermott’s side as high as No. 2 behind the Lions.
Sporting News – 2nd
“The Bills enjoyed a bye week but couldn't make up any more ground on the Chiefs after Josh Allen came through big time with big support from the defense in Week 12.” - Vinnie Iyer
NFL.com - 2nd
“Buffalo got to sit back on its Week 12 bye with a 9-2 record, having won six straight, culminating with a big win over Kansas City. Part of the Bills' bye-week viewing likely included the Chiefs' struggles to put the Panthers away, which had to make the week of rest even better. Buffalo all but has the AFC East wrapped up, and it still has a puncher's chance to wrestle away the AFC's top seed from Kansas City, thanks to the head-to-head win and a stretch run that is far easier than the Chiefs'. Buffalo will come out of the bye with a home game against the suddenly sinking 5-6 49ers. There also are games left against the Rams, Jets and Patriots (twice), as well as a showdown against the Lions in Detroit that could serve as a Super Bowl sneak peek. All told, the Bills are in great shape, and they appear to be getting a little healthier, too.” - Eric Edholm
ESPN – 4th
“Currently riding a six-game winning streak, the Bills' FPI rankings reflect just how well this team is performing despite dealing with injuries and changes on both sides of the ball. Quarterback Josh Allen and the offense are second in points margin per game (9.6), and the team leads the league in turnover margin (14). There are still some areas to monitor, as reflected in Tyler Bass being 25th in field goal percentage (86.4%) and missing four extra point attempts so far.” - Alaina Getzenberg
Pro Football Talk – 2nd
“It’s the annual Chris Berman Super Bowl prediction from pretty much every year of the 1990s, when the 49ers come to town. The Bills could be getting them at the perfect time.” - Mike Florio
