My first experience with the NFL’s Buffalo Bills was a bit of a blur. Few fans if any had expected the highly-touted rookie quarterback coming out of college was about to lead his team into one of the biggest achievements in franchise history. Having been a Bills fan since I was a kid, I remember that excitement and anticipation as the season kicked off. Little did I know that the Bills would go on to a ten-game winning streak capped off with a trip to the playoffs and eventual Super Bowl—an accomplishment that still stands as the longest winning streak in NFL history—all capped off with a trip to the hall of fame for quarterback Jim Kelly.
It was euphoric to say the least. During that time, the NFL was a wild and crazy game, as teams would go from underdogs to superstars with just a few wins under their belt. Supporters of the Bills, the blue and red faithful, were alongside the team through thick and thin—buoyed by the exuberant spirit of the players and the outstanding coaching of Marv Levy. Even as the fans watched the team go through periods of highs followed by valleys, the team was kept afloat by the loyal supporters, who loved the idea of pursuing greatness every Sunday.
It wasn’t always smooth sailing. The Bills have had moments—decades even—of disaster, where the team would seem to hit every wrong turn in the road. Some of those moments included a few truly poor and controversial coaching decisions, player feuds, fan boycotts, and lackluster performances.
But the Bills also had some great moments over the years—displaying grit and determination even in the face of impossible odds. In the mid-1990s, the Bills twice made it to the Super Bowl, coming up just inches short of the big prize both times. It was a testament to the power of the team—despite playing some of the worst offenses in NFL history, the Bills had the heart and sheer will to make it to the biggest stage.
Another abiding memory of the Bills is the tailgates before the game. The parking lot surrounding Ralph Wilson Stadium was a thunderous, jubilant atmosphere that set the tone for the day and beyond. Each week, fans would come early to show their support and mingle with each other. The aroma and cheer of the grills and beer-soaked conversations painted a picture of a grand family gathering.
To this day, the Bills remain one of my favorite teams—they brought so much joy over the years and gave me some of my favorite sports memories. From the magical playoff win over the Houston Oilers to the earthquake game in Toronto, the Bills have three decades of highs and lows stuffed in their history books. I follow them up until this day, and can’t wait to see them win another Super Bowl.
As the Bills begin their 2020 season, I’m reminded of all of the wonderful memories I shared with team—the ones that made me feel alive and more connected to the game. This season, I’m expecting a lot from the team as they take the field with a host of new stars. From Josh Allen to Stefon Diggs, this season should be full of thrills and excitement.
The Bills have always been a lightning rod for debates. From the Doug Flutie vs. Rob Johnson debates to the Josh Allen vs. Nathan Peterman controversy, the Bills have always been a conversation starter. It’s been fun to watch the debates go back and forth, year after year.
This coming season, however, I’m going to be focusing on the action on the field instead of the debates. I’m expecting to see the Bills play some exciting football. They have the talent and the coaching to do something special—here’s hoping they can take it to the playoffs this year.
The Bills have pulled out some incredible come-from-behind wins over the years. From a stunning, improbable victory over the Atlanta Falcons in 1992 to an inspiring performance against the New England Patriots in 2018, the team has overcome the odds in incredible and heartwarming performances.
The Bills will be back in full (COVID-19) force when the season kicks off. I’m ready for some entertaining football, and I can’t wait to cheer on my beloved team at the stadium or from the comfort of my living room. Here’s hoping the Bills can keep the streak going this season, and bring home the coveted Super Bowl title. Go Bills!