BREAKING: Bills QB Josh Allen Makes Bold Statement on Polarizing Aspect of His Game
The Buffalo Bills have emphasized to quarterback Josh Allen the importance of reducing the hits he takes, though it’s uncertain if he’s fully taken it to heart.
General manager Brandon Beane and head coach Sean McDermott have publicly expressed their desire for Allen to play more cautiously when running the ball, aiming to avoid the hard hits he often invites on long runs to ensure his long-term health.
However, in a recent appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show,” Allen shared that he’s not quite prepared to give up that part of his game.
Bills QB Feels ‘Good Enough’ to Take Big Hits
When Pat McAfee asked if Josh Allen would still consider plowing into defenders as he has in previous runs, Allen replied that it depends on how he’s feeling that week. Despite dealing with a hand injury this season, he noted he’s ready for some contact in Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts.
“Depending on the week,” Allen said. “I think my body feels good enough to do it this week, if need be.”
This approach may be concerning for Buffalo’s leadership. After Allen ran a career-high 124 times in 2022, often choosing not to slide or go out of bounds, general manager Brandon Beane voiced his worries, noting it put too much physical strain on Allen.
“The only thing I’d get on to him for is he’s got too many bruises,” Beane said via the *Democrat & Chronicle*. “We’ve got to work on taking fewer hits. That’s the only reason I’d ever criticize Josh — just take fewer hits.”
Head coach Sean McDermott has echoed these concerns over recent seasons, expressing his desire for Allen to avoid engaging defenders.
Although Allen has faced ongoing calls to avoid contact, he has made more efforts to slide or step out in the last two seasons. This year, he’s on pace for just 88 rushing attempts, which would be a career low. Nonetheless, he continues to be a primary rushing threat near the goal line, with three rushing touchdowns so far this season.
Josh Allen Trying to Cut Down on Mistakes
Allen noted that he’s been more cautious in other areas, particularly with turnovers. After throwing 47 interceptions over the past three seasons, he has only two so far this year.
The Bills quarterback explained he’s focused on not just avoiding interceptions, but also making smarter choices with his throws.
“I’m making a conscious effort not just to avoid interceptions, but to make good decisions with the football and where I’m throwing it,” Allen said.
However, Allen admitted that some of his low interception count this season is due to luck.
“And honestly, I’ve thrown a few that defenders just dropped,” he acknowledged. “So I recognize that sometimes things go your way, and we’ve had that happen a couple of times.”