The Buffalo Bills concluded their regular season with a disappointing 23-16 loss to the New England Patriots, who ended the season with a 4-13 record. This defeat, however, might benefit the Bills in the long run as it hindered the Patriots from securing the top pick in the upcoming draft. The Patriots' win also led to the dismissal of head coach Jerod Mayo shortly after the game.

Despite the loss, the Bills found some positives. With most starters resting, they avoided injuries. Quarterback Josh Allen extended his consecutive starts streak to 115, while James Cook tied a franchise record for rushing touchdowns in a season. The Bills also made history by becoming the first team to score both 30+ rushing and receiving touchdowns in a season.

In a pivotal Week 18 matchup, Buffalo Bills linebacker Von Miller secured a crucial sack against New England Patriots rookie quarterback Drake Maye, marking his sixth of the season. This achievement not only underscored Miller's defensive prowess but also unlocked a $1.5 million roster bonus, highlighting his significant role even as the Bills were locked into the No. 2 seed.

Coach Sean McDermott remarked on the importance of balancing team strategies with individual achievements, emphasizing the good timing of the sack on a key third down. Despite the limited action due to playoff preparations, Miller's determination shone through as he expressed gratitude for the milestone, which came during just his third snap of the game.

Other players also achieved personal milestones, including punter Sam Martin, who recorded his 25th punt inside the 20-yard line, earning a $100,000 bonus. Wide receiver Mack Hollins similarly reached a financial incentive with two catches, while running back James Cook wrapped up a historic season, tying the franchise record for rushing touchdowns.

The Buffalo Bills enter their final regular season game against the New England Patriots with several players eyeing significant contract incentives. Although the team may not have playoff implications to chase, individuals have personal stakes to play for.

Among them, Von Miller stands out, needing just one sack to secure an extra $1.5 million. After a tumultuous season marked by a four-game suspension, Miller has recorded five sacks, alongside 16 tackles and six tackles for loss.

Other players, such as DaQuan Jones and Taron Johnson, are tied for the second highest potential bonuses, each needing minimal achievements to unlock $250,000 incentives. Jones requires only a half sack, while Johnson needs to intercept one pass.

Tight end Dawson Knox has a challenging task ahead, needing eight catches for a $100,000 bonus and an additional 89 yards to reach a potential total of $200,000. Similarly, receiver Mack Hollins can earn up to $200,000 with two receptions and 72 receiving yards.

Even on special teams, punter Sam Martin could secure a $100,000 bonus by pinning one punt inside the opponent's 20-yard line. With multiple players vying for bonuses, the game is set to be filled with personal storylines for the Bills.

The Game Matchups Preview series analyzes the Buffalo Bills' upcoming game against the Detroit Lions in Week 15 of the 2024 NFL season.

Key matchups include the Bills' offense facing the Lions' formidable defense, particularly focusing on quarterback Josh Allen's recent impressive performances. The Lions boast a top-ranked pass defense, making this a challenging matchup for Buffalo.

While the Bills' run game struggles, the Lions' defense remains strong, led by standout players. Special teams play will also be crucial, with both teams having notable kickers and return threats.

Ultimately, the Lions are favored to win, but if Allen performs at his best, the Bills could still find a way to compete.

Josh Allen made history with three touchdown passes and three rushing touchdowns in a single game, but his inability to score on a crucial sneak during the Buffalo Bills' 44-42 loss to the Los Angeles Rams overshadowed his performance.

Despite his impressive stats, including 324 passing yards and 82 rushing yards, Allen expressed disappointment in not securing a win. The Bills' late-game strategy, including a failed onside kick, ultimately led to the end of their seven-game winning streak.