10. It's the playoffs!
Playoffs, people. I'm talking about the NFL playoffs! It's been a long time coming but, after 17 seasons, the Buffalo Bills are finally back in the dance and we couldn't be more excited. Taking on AFC South opponent in the Jacksonville Jaguars, the Bills will give it their all to stay alive in the postseason.
9. A fresh look
The Bills boys will be sporting a white on blue uniform combination as they take the field during Wild Card weekend. Get a glimpse of the fresh look:
8. We're taking over…one city at a time
Okay, so by now you've probably figured out that Bills fans are pretty awesome. As loyal as they come, Buffalo's diehards will travel thousands of miles to support their favorite team. This week will be no different down in Jacksonville. In fact, Bills fans have been spotted in droves at several airports, decked out in Bills gear and chanting a collective 'Let's go Buffalo!' Get ready Jags. We're taking over.
7. Familiar territory
When the Bills arrive in Jacksonville, it'll mark the second consecutive trip to the Sunshine State for the team in two weeks. Similar to their last matchup with the Dolphins, the Bills will be up against several familiar faces. Chief among them are Jacksonville head coach Doug Marrone and offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett, who each spent the 2013-14 seasons in Buffalo. Jags defensive tackle Marcell Dareus and linebacker Paul Posluzny both got their starts with the Bills, while current Bills defensive end Ryan Davis spent time with the Jags.
As the Bills get set to take on the Jacksonville Jaguars in the AFC Wild Card on Sunday, Jan. 7, we take a look at photos from previous matchups.
6. Party like it's 1999
Looking to party like it's 1999? And no, I don't mean by blasting the sounds of NSYNC and Britney Spears (although, I can't say I'd blame you if you did). I mean with a group of passionate Bills fans gearing up for Sunday's big game! For fans who will be in the area, the Bills Backers Chapter of Jacksonville will be hosting a party Saturday, Jan. 6. Round up your herd and head on down! For more information on Bills Backers Chapters near you, click here.
5. McDermott on a mission
Bills head coach Sean McDermott has made quite an impression around the League. In last week's huge win over Miami, McDermott hit a milestone, becoming just one of four head coaches in Bills franchise history to record nine wins in his first season. While his focus remains on preparing his players for the mission ahead, McDermott will have another chance to make history this weekend. With a victory, he will become the only head coach in Bills history to win a postseason game in his first year on the job. Not too shabby, coach.
4. A chance of shade?
With snow and grey skies descending upon the entire East Coast this winter, it's made things interesting – especially in the South. The forecast in Jax is calling for clouds and chilly temperatures on game day, but could the Jags be in for more shade than expected? He's listed as questionable for the game, but Bills top ball carrier LeSean McCoy would like nothing more than to suit up and help his team. Here's to hoping for a Shady Sunday.
3. A stacked secondary
The accolades continue to roll in for Buffalo's secondary, as the unit has made it tough or near impossible at times for their opponents to score through the air. Giving up just 14 passing touchdowns all season, the group has proven they can lock it down for the Bills 'D.' Safeties Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer finished the regular season with five picks each and rookie Tre White has forced five turnovers in the fourth quarter. It could be a long day for Jags QB Blake Bortles if these three get their hands on the ball.
2. A weekend to remember for Williams
Kyle Williams has been holding it down for the Bills defense since '06. Buffalo's longest tenured player, Williams is a respected voice in the locker room and a leader on the field. Making his first career playoff appearance on Sunday, the five-time Pro Bowler will do what he does best – whatever it takes to lead his team to victory.
1. It Starts With One playoff game
An entire year of hard work, preparation and perseverance has come down to this moment. Earning the right to represent their city in the postseason, the Buffalo Bills will look to make the most out of the opportunity. It will be a challenge, but with a win this Sunday, the Bills will advance in the NFL playoffs and continue on their journey that started long before the season.
