Allen Dominates Bills' Debut
Josh Allen Dazzles in Bills' Preseason Win as New Era Begins in $2.1 Billion Stadium
Josh Allen opened the Bills' new $2.1 billion stadium in style on Saturday, throwing a 9-yard touchdown pass to Keon Coleman in a 29-14 preseason win over the Carolina Panthers, according to AP News. It was the first competitive game ever played in the venue, which sits across the street from the team's former home.
The win also marked the debut of new Bills head coach Joe Brady, who chose to play his starters to help them get comfortable with the new surroundings and coaching staff, Yahoo Sports reported. The team got an early scare, however, when new receiver DJ Moore limped off the field after an 18-yard catch.
Allen Shines in Historic First Game at New Stadium
Allen looked sharp from the start, showing off his big arm and ability to escape pressure. His touchdown toss to Coleman was the highlight of the day. It capped a drive that set the tone for the entire game, Yakima Herald noted. The Bills won comfortably, 29-14.
The new stadium cost $2.1 billion to build. It stands just across the street from the old Bills facility. Playing there for the first time gave Allen and his teammates a chance to learn the sightlines, the crowd noise, and the feel of the new building before the regular season begins, according to AP News.
DJ Moore Injury Puts Bills on Early Alert
The Bills' biggest concern of the night had nothing to do with the scoreboard. Wide receiver DJ Moore, acquired in the offseason, left the game with a limp after hauling in an 18-yard catch. The team did not immediately say how serious the injury was, according to Yahoo Sports.
Moore was one of Buffalo's marquee offseason additions. Losing him early in the preseason would be a blow. Allen needs time with his new weapons before Week 1 of the regular season. The Bills will be watching Moore's status closely in the days ahead.
Panthers Struggle Without Both Starting Tackles
Carolina had a rough night on offense. Quarterback Bryce Young and the Panthers got off to a poor start in their preseason opener. Making things worse, both projected starting tackles — Ickey Ekwonu and Taylor Moton — were sidelined and did not play, AP News reported.
Losing two starting offensive linemen before a game even begins puts any quarterback in a tough spot. Young had little time to work with. The Panthers will need those two back healthy before the regular season if they want to protect their signal-caller and run the ball effectively.
Week 1 Preseason Continues With Rams and Browns in Focus
The Bills-Panthers game was just the opening act of NFL preseason Week 1. Later action included the Los Angeles Rams, where quarterback Ty Simpson was set to make his debut. The Cleveland Browns' ongoing quarterback battle was also expected to take another turn on the field, according to Yahoo Sports.
Preseason Week 1 is the first real look fans get at depth charts, backups, and position battles. For teams like the Browns, where the starting quarterback job is still up for grabs, these early games carry real weight. Every snap counts when a roster spot — or a starting job — is on the line.
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