Since assuming the coaching role for the Buffalo Bills in 2017, Sean McDermott has been on a mission to solidify his status among the NFL’s elite coaches. Steering the Bills to a triumphant victory against the Kansas City Chiefs, McDermott achieved another milestone, becoming the second-winningest head coach in Bills history.
This significant win not only proved McDermott’s coaching prowess but also reinforced the winning culture he’s cultivated. Inspired by the victory, McDermott delivered a heartfelt message to his team after gaining support from them regarding his former off-field blunder.
Sean McDermott delivers an inspiring victory speech
During the riveting showdown between the Chiefs and Bills, a controversial call stirred emotions on both sides, with Chiefs starter Patrick Mahomes expressing his frustration. Despite the criticism, the Bills secured a thrilling 20-17 victory, a crucial win that brought a surge of relief and joy to head coach Sean McDermott.
McDermott’s reaction to the victory was raw and intense, culminating in a primal scream on the sidelines. In reflecting on the triumph, he commended the unwavering focus and resilience of his team and cheered his boys loudly.
McDermott expressed his pride for the Bills’ players, staff, and their shared goal to rob the front stage of the showdown.
“Our guys—the staff, the players—are steadfast in their focus. I couldn’t be more proud of a group, I really couldn’t at this point in the regular season.”
The head coach continued bragging about the unity within his team, highlighting the players’ support for each other and acknowledging the significance of their collective effort.
“To a person, they didn’t flinch. They were focused, they supported one another, and they supported me, and I don’t take that for granted at all. I’m just super proud of those guys and just a super resilient group.”
The victory marked their fifth meeting at the home of their bitter rivals, the Kansas City Chiefs, since January 2021. Despite their two unsuccessful postseason trips, they triumphed here in back-to-back regular-season games in 2021 and 2022. The victory raises Buffalo’s record to 7-6 for the year.
Brandon Beane reaffirms support for Bills HC
Prior to this emotional victory, McDermott faced challenges off the field. He had to address and explain past comments relating to 9/11, for which he apologized, which became a source of controversy and a story regarding a message McDermott delivered to the team during training camp in 2019.
Kansas City Chiefs head coach Andy Reid extended support to McDermott amid the controversies. Reid’s backing played a crucial role in helping McDermott weather the storm.
The Bills’ general manager, Brendon Beane, who has worked closely with McDermott for seven seasons in Buffalo and previously with the Carolina Panthers, also voiced his support. Beane acknowledged the challenges of leadership positions, emphasizing that nobody is perfect. He echoed his understanding and solidarity with McDermott during a challenging time.
“Obviously when you’re in leadership positions, you’ve got a lot of people looking up to you, and none of us are perfect, OK,” he said, per ESPN.
McDermott himself expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support he received from various quarters within the Bills organization. He noted that individuals from the franchise’s office, players on the team, and even members of other clubs reached out to offer encouragement.
