Bills rule out 3 for Week 18 showdown

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Key Players Set to Play in Week 18

The Buffalo Bills have faced their share of challenges this season, with multiple starters on Injured Reserve (IR) and key players frequently rotating in and out of the lineup. As they head into Week 18, the team's injury report is a long list, but only a few players are officially ruled out for the game.

Josh Allen, the team's star quarterback, is set to start the game. This was expected, as there were doubts about whether he would even take the field. However, it's now confirmed that Allen is fully prepared to play. There's even a chance he could be more involved in the game, especially if the Bills find themselves in the red zone. With a chance to reach his 40th touchdown pass of the season, Allen may return to the field later in the game. Head coach Sean McDermott has also confirmed that Allen is in good shape for the matchup.

Players Who Won't Be Playing

Three players are officially ruled out for the game: linebacker Terrell Bernard, safety Jordan Poyer, and defensive tackle DaQuan Jones. These absences will force the Bills to make some adjustments in their defense. Cam Lewis and Jordan Hancock will rotate at safety, while Shaq Thompson will step in at linebacker. The defensive line will also be affected, as Ed Oliver remains on IR and DaQuan Jones is out.

Jordan Phillips, another defensive tackle, is listed as questionable. However, he had a full practice on Friday, and it's possible he could see action in the game. Whether or not he plays depends on how the rest of the day's games unfold, particularly the one-o’clock matchups.

Questionable Players and Their Impact

Tight end Dalton Kincaid is listed as questionable, but his participation will depend on whether the Bills need him for the five-seed open. If the team doesn’t have a shot at securing that spot, he may get a bye week. Defensive end Joey Bosa is also on the questionable list, but he has a financial incentive to play. A single sack could earn him an additional $250,000, so if his hamstring is healthy and the weather conditions are favorable, he might stay on the field longer.

Preparing for the Postseason

With the playoffs approaching, the Bills are focused on avoiding any new injuries. Every game is crucial, and the team needs all its players to be ready for the next round. The coaching staff is likely to be cautious, ensuring that players are properly taped, braced, and treated to keep them functional for the remainder of the season.

Final Thoughts

As the Bills prepare for what could be the final game at Highmark Stadium, the focus is on getting the right players on the field and keeping the team as healthy as possible. While the injury report shows several names, only a few will be missing from the starting lineup. With Josh Allen leading the offense and key defenders stepping up, the team is determined to finish the regular season strong and position itself for a deep playoff run.