In the NFL showdown at Orchard Park, the Buffalo Bills narrowly edged out the New England Patriots, clinching a 24-21 victory. But judging by Coach Sean McDermott’s post-game demeanor, you’d think the Bills lost.

McDermott appeared before the press with a seriousness that mirrored the gritty reality of their performance. Despite expressing his gratitude for the win, he candidly acknowledged the team didn’t deliver their best showing and seemed to agree with his players that they could up their game.

McDermott wasn’t just battling the Patriots on Sunday; he was also feeling under the weather, a sentiment echoed in a conversation with his brother, who texted to ask if he was mad or sick. Both, as it turned out.

Despite a healthier Monday, McDermott’s reflection on the game hadn’t sweetened much. “There were bright spots, sure,” he admitted, but acknowledged the persistent need for improvement.

Historically, the Bills have stumbled harder in losses to the Ravens, Texans, and Rams. Yet, the struggle against a battered New England squad—one led by a rookie quarterback and a coach potentially facing his final days—left McDermott as frustrated as he’s been all season. Next up for Buffalo is another matchup against a faltering division rival, the 4-11 New York Jets, in their regular-season finale.

Come Christmas, the Bills might find themselves locking down the AFC’s No. 2 seed if the Steelers fall to the Chiefs and the Ravens slip against the Texans. Such outcomes would also dash Buffalo’s slim hopes of clinching the top seed, prompting a debate: Should the Bills rest some key players against the Jets and later against the Patriots? That move would be risky, and arguably not advisable, especially considering the team’s recent performance issues.

For one, easing off the throttle could compromise their competitive edge. Also, there’s critical work to be done following that Patriot performance—where the passing game lacked punch, special teams blundered twice, and their defense allowed an underwhelming Patriots offense to notch up 28 first downs.

Josh Allen, referencing the offense, summed it up perfectly: “wasn’t our best effort.” While a win is still a win, the Bills are veering off-course as they head into postseason action. McDermott emphasized a day-by-day approach when asked about forthcoming roster decisions, noting, “We’re just taking it one day at a time.”

For Buffalo, solidifying their starters in the secondary is now a top priority. If Patriots rookie QB Drake Maye can find success against the Bills’ backups, facing a seasoned Aaron Rodgers—despite his age—throwing to targets like Davante Adams and Garrett Wilson could spell trouble. The Bills’ pass defense has been porous lately, missing key players and allowing 229.5 yards per game through the air, placing them 25th in the league—a stark contrast to past seasons under McDermott.

Over on the Jets’ side, the game plan is clear: keep the offense clean and consistent. Their lack of turnovers was their undoing against the Rams, a game within their grasp. Possessions went awry despite some promising drives, including a remarkable 99-yard touchdown from Rodgers to Adams.

Looking ahead, the matchup to monitor is Buffalo’s pass rush against Rodgers, especially considering their mixed results against a shaky Patriots offensive line. When blitzing the rookie QB, the Bills were effective, but Rodgers presents a different challenge. Even less mobile, he’s adept against blitz pressure, with notable stats to prove it.

As for a game prediction? Expect a tight contest with the Bills squeezing out a 27-20 victory over the Jets.

Division games bring their oddities, and the strategic chess match that comes from facing a familiar foe may turn this into an intriguing contest as both sides look for creative ways to gain an edge. Buffalo’s plans could pivot depending on playoff seeding scenarios post-Christmas, but whether they hold back or go full throttle, winning remains the priority.

For fans gearing up for game day, set your sights on a 1 p.m. kickoff at Highmark Stadium where the Bills enter as 10-point favorites, with the over-under set at 47. With so much still at stake, this clash promises to be more than just another regular season finale—it’s a prelude to what the postseason holds in store.