The Buffalo Bills’ flawless start to the 2026 NFL season ended on Sunday when the New England Patriots defeated them 29‑26 at Highmark Stadium. The loss drops Buffalo to a 3‑1 record, while the Patriots improve to 4‑0.
Key moments of the game
Buffalo held a 26‑21 lead late in the fourth quarter after quarterback Josh Allen connected with wide receiver Keon Coleman for a 34‑yard touchdown with 4:27 remaining. The drive seemed to put the Bills in a position to seal the win.
However, Patriots quarterback Drake Maye responded quickly. He found Efton Chism III for a 23‑yard score with 1:50 left on the clock, and the Patriots successfully executed a two‑point conversion to Rhamondre Stevenson, taking a 29‑26 lead.
Allen’s final possession ended in disappointment when safety Craig Woodson intercepted his pass at the Patriots’ 19‑yard line with 1:14 remaining, sealing the victory for New England.
Statistical snapshot
Josh Allen completed 23 of 33 passes for 253 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, adding a rushing touchdown of his own. He also contributed a rushing yard total that helped keep the Bills competitive throughout the game.
Keon Coleman was Buffalo’s top receiver, hauling in six catches for 116 yards. On the Patriots’ side, Drake Maye threw for 269 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his poise in a high‑pressure situation.
Looking ahead
The Bills will travel to Los Angeles on Monday night, October 12, to face the Rams at SoFi Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. EDT, with the pre‑game radio broadcast beginning at 7:15 p.m. on 100.1 The Hero.
Both teams will look to build on the lessons from this opening weekend as the regular season progresses, with the Patriots aiming to maintain their unbeaten streak and the Bills seeking to rebound from their first loss.
Original reporting: WESB (Bradford) — read the source article.
