Many fans and analysts were surprised to see Allen back on the field on Sunday. Trubisky stepped in for one snap, but Allen returned after a brief evaluation in the medical tent.
Fox Sports 1 host Emmanuel Acho commented, “We all saw Josh Allen seemingly get knocked out, yet they gave him smelling salts and sent him back. As if that undoes head trauma. 🤦🏾♂️.”
NFL analyst Chase Daniel added, “If they allowed Josh Allen back after hitting his head, then the concussion protocol is flawed. He looked like he was out.”
One fan remarked, “Terrible decision by the NFL and the Bills to let Josh Allen return. Concussion protocols must be consistent.”
Sean McDermott Criticized for End-of-Game Coaching Decisions
After struggling in the first two quarters, Allen and the Bills found some rhythm in the second half, tying the game 20-20. With 32 seconds left in the fourth quarter and no timeouts, the Bills had possession. However, Allen threw three incomplete passes, and the Bills punted from deep in their own territory.
McDermott’s decision not to run the ball and burn the clock baffled many analysts. Houston’s defense allowed an average of 5.4 yards per carry, and abandoning the run when Allen was struggling with passes proved costly.
The Texans, with three timeouts remaining, returned the punt to the 46-yard line. With two seconds left, Texans kicker Ka’imi Fairbairn nailed a 59-yard field goal for the win. McDermott accepted responsibility after the game.
“I’ve got to be better. It starts with me. Running the ball was the more efficient option,” he said.
Former NFL defensive end J.J. Watt commented, “Baffling game management decisions by the Bills…” ESPN’s Mike Greenberg wrote, “There will be worse losses this season, but there may not be a dumber one.”
