Everyone was saying that the Broncos NEEDED the game on Sunday, too. Not comparing the Bills to the Broncos, but rather saying the ”need” angle is overblown. Realistically, both teams need to win Sunday. Still, I don’t think falling to 2-2 means much of anything for the Bills eventual position at the end of the regular season. Barring an injury to Allen, the Bills are going to be in the playoffs.
Mentally it means a lot. Its an uphill climb with 2 division losses and a trip to Miami in week 18 still on the slate when you're already 2 games behind.
You can't play Sam Howell every week.
In addition to that week 18 trip to Miami, they also have to travel to New England, Philly, Kansas City, Cincy and LAC yet this year.
Sure they can still make the playoffs if they lose this week but it will be hard to consider them contenders if they do.