By Nick Wojton / Billswire.usatoday.com
Josh Allen started his Buffalo Bills career by launching a football over them mountains. It might continue by doing everything but that.
The rookie’s first play from scrimmage during Buffalo’s preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers was a pass that traveled nearly 60 yards in the air into the hands of Robert Foster. The pass led Foster just a few feet too far out of bounds though.
Allen had impressive passes against the Panthers, including a touchdown pass in the red zone through multiple defenders which found Ray-Ray McCloud, but overall, he played better against the Cleveland Browns in his second game. Allen had fewer pass attempts but completed the same amount, going 9-for-13 compared to 9-for-19 in his first action.
Allen credited his improvement to simplifying the game.
“There are some things I missed, some things I already learned from and some things I’ll continue to learn from. But, I did a good job of taking what their defense gave me and allowing our guys to go make a play on the ball. Ultimately, that’s the job of the quarterback, we’re moving the sticks, we scored on a few drives there. I’m happy with the performance, but I’m not content. Just trying to learn from every mistake on the field and every success,” Allen said.
The simplified game has helped Allen earn the praise of several teammates and he’ll be starting Buffalo’s next preseason game on Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals. But Buffalo head coach Sean McDermott said on Wednesday Allen’s start was all part of the plan.
Regardless if earned the start or it’s part of a hidden agenda from McDermott, Allen’s taking the start in stride.
“I’m not going out there trying to try to prove why I’m the starter or whatever the case may be, I’m going out there to play football and move the chains, put points on the board and help this offense in whatever way I can,” Allen said.
With a strong performance, Allen has a chance to edge out second-year pro Nathan Peterman and AJ McCarron for Buffalo’s starting QB gig when the regular season begins.