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Cover image: Josh Allen during the Buffalo Bills v/s New England Patriots game, December 14th, 2025. (Credit:NFL via X)
Josh Allen and James Cook power Buffalo’s massive second-half comeback, denying New England a chance to clinch the division.
The Buffalo Bills pulled off one of the most dramatic comebacks of the season on Sunday, overcoming a 21-0 deficit to defeat the New England Patriots 35-31 in a high-stakes AFC East showdown. Reports from major outlets confirm the Bills scored on five straight possessions in the second half, turning the game around in front of a stunned crowd at Gillette Stadium.
New England dominated early, building a commanding lead behind rookie quarterback Drake Maye’s dual-threat performance and big runs from TreVeyon Henderson. The Patriots appeared poised to clinch the division title, but Buffalo’s offense exploded after halftime, with James Cook proving instrumental in the rally.
Cook scored three touchdowns—two rushing and one receiving—while Josh Allen threw for multiple scores, including key connections with Dawson Knox. The Bills’ defense stepped up in crucial moments late, sealing the victory and keeping their playoff positioning intact.
The Bills mounted a huge comeback to stay alive in the AFC East.
As highlighted in official NFL updates:
James Cook puts Buffalo back in front!
Five straight TD drives for the Bills
BUFvsNE on CBS/Paramount+
Table of Contents
How the Comeback Unfolded
The Patriots struck quickly, with Maye rushing for touchdowns and Henderson breaking long runs, including scores of over 50 yards. New England led 24-7 at one point, capitalizing on Buffalo’s early struggles.
The tide turned in the third quarter. Buffalo’s offense found rhythm, mixing Cook’s runs with Allen’s passes. A pivotal fourth-down conversion kept a drive alive, leading to the go-ahead score.
Henderson responded with another long touchdown for New England, but the Bills answered immediately. Late in the fourth, Buffalo’s defense forced a key stop on fourth down, allowing the offense to run out the clock.
The official final tally:
FINAL: The @BuffaloBills mount huge comeback to stay alive in the AFC East!
Background on the Rivalry and Stakes
This matchup renewed a classic AFC East rivalry, with New England entering on a strong run and holding division lead. The Patriots had an opportunity to clinch the title with a win, while Buffalo needed the victory to remain in contention.
Both teams featured dynamic offenses, setting the stage for a shootout. Snowy conditions in Foxborough added to the challenge, but neither side was deterred from aggressive play.
The result shifts momentum in the division race, with New England still in strong position but Buffalo proving resilient. The comeback marks a significant moment in the Bills’ season.
Reactions and Implications
Discussion across sports platforms focused on the dramatic turnaround, with analysts noting Buffalo’s second-half adjustments. The game highlighted Cook’s emergence and Allen’s leadership under pressure.
For New England, the late collapse raised questions about closing games against top competition, though the team’s overall standing remains solid. Fans and media alike debated officiating and key plays.
The outcome affects playoff seeding in the AFC, adding importance to remaining games. Buffalo gains momentum heading into the final weeks, while the Patriots look to rebound.
As Week 15 continues, this contest stands out for its intensity and impact on the postseason picture.
Buffalo Bills, New England Patriots, NFL Week 15, Josh Allen, James Cook, Drake Maye, AFC East, Comeback Win, NFL Playoffs
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