The Buffalo Bills travel to face the Seattle Seahawks this Sunday in a matchup where both teams look to build off strong performances. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best NFL odds from the top sportsbooks.
NFL Pick: Bills -3 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
Bills vs. Seahawks
Sunday, October 27, 2024 – 04:05 PM ET at Lumen Field
Buffalo’s Offensive Surge in Cooper’s Debut
Amari Cooper wasted no time fitting into Buffalo’s offense. Just five days after his trade from Cleveland, Cooper turned his first catch as a Bill into a go-ahead touchdown in a 34-10 victory over the Titans.
Despite limited practice time, Cooper’s 66 yards on four catches across 18 snaps showcased his ability to make an immediate impact. His presence also freed up space for Darrel Coleman, who broke the 100-yard mark with 125 yards on four receptions.
Josh Allen, celebrating his 100th career start, added to the Bills’ offensive firepower with his 26th career 300-yard game, completing 21 of 33 passes for 323 yards and two touchdowns. He now sits among legendary company with Joe Montana and Brett Favre for the sixth-most wins in a quarterback’s first 100 starts.
Seattle’s Defensive Revival After a Losing Streak
The Seahawks snapped their three-game losing streak with a 34-14 victory over the Falcons, thanks to a dominant defensive showing. Derick Hall’s 36-yard fumble return for a touchdown helped seal the win, while the defense forced three turnovers on consecutive drives in the fourth quarter. Seattle’s defense, which had allowed nearly 36 points per game during their skid, finally showed resilience, limiting Atlanta’s potent offense.
On the offensive side, Geno Smith made timely throws, connecting with DK Metcalf for a 31-yard touchdown and Kenneth Walker for a 17-yard score. Smith finished with 207 yards, his second-lowest total of the season, but his ability to capitalize on key moments was enough to lead Seattle to victory. However, the Seahawks face a potential setback with Metcalf’s knee injury, which leaves his status for the game uncertain.
Keys to the Game
Allen comes into this game on a high, having thrown for over 300 yards in his 100th career start. He’ll face a Seattle defense that looked sharp in their win over the Falcons but has struggled for consistency during their losing streak.
Allen’s mobility and decision-making at the line of scrimmage will be crucial, especially against a Seahawks unit that has shown vulnerability to dynamic quarterbacks. Hall’s ability to generate turnovers will be a key factor, but Allen’s chemistry with Cooper and his experience under pressure give Buffalo a significant edge.
Cooper’s arrival has already paid dividends for Buffalo, and he will be a focal point for Seattle’s secondary. After scoring a touchdown and amassing 66 yards in limited action, Cooper will demand attention, opening up lanes for other Bills receivers like Darrel Coleman. Seattle’s secondary, which has been prone to giving up big plays, must find a way to contain Cooper, or risk being picked apart by Allen.
Smith must contend with a Buffalo defense that excels at creating pressure. Smith will need to make quick decisions and protect the ball, especially with Metcalf’s status in doubt. Against a Bills pass rush that thrives on forcing turnovers, Smith’s ability to sustain drives will be critical. Short passes and keeping the chains moving will be his best strategy to neutralize the pass rush and keep pace with Buffalo’s explosive offense.
Walker will need to take charge of the Seahawks’ offense by controlling the tempo and keeping Buffalo’s high-powered offense off the field. However, Buffalo’s defense has been stout against the run, and if Seattle’s rushing attack falters, Smith may find himself in a difficult position, especially without his top deep threat in Metcalf.
Turnovers will be a key theme in this matchup, as both teams have used them to secure recent wins. Seattle’s defense has proven it can force critical mistakes, but Allen’s experience and efficiency make him tough to rattle. Smith, on the other hand, must avoid giving the ball away against an opportunistic Buffalo defense.
Special teams could also play a pivotal role in changing field position, especially if this game stays close in the fourth quarter.
NFL Pick
This game is likely to begin cautiously, with both teams testing each other early. While Seattle’s defense has shown improvement, Buffalo’s balanced offense and Allen’s leadership should be enough to wear down the Seahawks over time. With Metcalf possibly out, Seattle’s offense may struggle to keep pace with Buffalo’s scoring ability.
NFL Pick: Bills -3 (-110) at Bet365
*21+ Seek help with a gambling addiction at 1-800-Gambler
*The line and/or odds referenced in this article might have changed since the content was published. For the latest information on line movements, visit OddsTrader’s free betting odds tool.
