The Buffalo Bills launched the NFL season in dramatic style, overturning a 15-point fourth-quarter deficit to edge the Baltimore Ravens 41-40 in a pulsating clash on Sunday.
Veteran kicker Matt Prater, signed just days earlier, sealed the win with a last-second field goal, completing the Bills’ remarkable rally.
Reigning MVP Josh Allen spearheaded the comeback with two passing touchdowns and two rushing scores, including a late drive that set up Prater’s game-winner. Buffalo piled on 16 points in the final four minutes, leaving Lamar Jackson and the Ravens stunned after looking set for revenge for last year’s playoff heartbreak.
“There’s just no quit in this team,” Allen said, praising Prater, who had been flown in from Arizona as injury cover for Tyler Bass.
Jackson finished with 209 passing yards, two touchdown throws and one rushing TD, while Derrick Henry ran for 169 yards and two scores. But a crucial fumble by Henry late in the game opened the door for Buffalo’s comeback.
The night wasn’t without drama off the field — a Bills fan struck DeAndre Hopkins on the helmet during a touchdown celebration, prompting Jackson to shove the spectator back into his seat.
Stafford Joins Elite Club
In Los Angeles, Matthew Stafford became the 10th quarterback in NFL history to surpass 60,000 passing yards in the Rams’ 14-9 win over the Houston Texans. The milestone came on a fourth-quarter completion to Puka Nacua.
Rodgers Shines in Steelers Debut
Elsewhere, Aaron Rodgers marked his Pittsburgh Steelers debut in style, tossing four touchdown passes in a 34-32 win over the New York Jets, his former team. The 41-year-old, entering his 21st season, showed no signs of slowing down after recovering from an Achilles injury.
“I was happy to beat everybody associated with the Jets,” Rodgers said bluntly after the game.
Other Results
- In Green Bay, new signing Micah Parsons made an immediate impact with a sack in the Packers’ 27-13 win over the Detroit Lions.
- The San Francisco 49ers edged the Seattle Seahawks 17-13, with backup tight end Jake Tonges catching the late game-winner after George Kittle exited injured.
- Rookie quarterback Bo Nix overcame three turnovers to lead the Denver Broncos to a 20-12 victory over the Tennessee Titans, spoiling top draft pick Cam Ward’s debut.
