The NFL 2023 season has just witnessed a crucial week 16 where some big teams like Patrick Mahomes‘ Kansas City Chiefs had to digest disappointing defeats against their rivals. Many small teams also showcased potential throughout the last two weeks of this season, which has suddenly pushed them into the playoff scenario.
The New England Patriots remained lackluster throughout the season. Meanwhile, the Buffalo Bills have been able to buckle up and upset big teams like the Chiefs and Dallas Cowboys. The Patriots vs Bills showdown in Week 17 will be a thing to watch, given the intense scenario of the playoffs. Ahead of the battle, let’s look at the other factors that might shape the intricacy of the match.
Patriots vs Bills Week 17 weather, timing, location, playoff possibility
Scheduled as a riveting rematch of their Week 7 clash, where the Patriots clinched a 29-25 victory over the Bills, the upcoming faceoff between these two teams holds immense significance. The stage is set for the clash to unfold at the Highmark Stadium in Buffalo, New York, with kickoff slated for 1 p.m. ET, via CBS Sports.
The weather forecast for the Patriots vs Bills match paints a picture of cloudy skies with intermittent spells of light rain and the possibility of snow later in the day. As the game starts, there is a 70 percent chance of rain, coupled with a temperature of 38 degrees Fahrenheit and a moderate wind factor ranging from 5 to 10 mph, which might pose challenges for both teams.
For Josh Allen’s Bills squad, perched at 9-6, this upcoming game will offer a crucial opportunity to avenge their previous loss and further solidify their bid for the coveted No. 2 spot in the AFC. Despite the setback earlier in the season, they are riding high on a three-game winning streak and enter this divisional matchup as formidable 12-point favorites.
On the flip side, the Patriots find themselves at 4-11, their playoff aspirations dashed. Their quarterback room has been going through significant setbacks, while their head coach Bill Belichick has been getting a series of jabs frequently. However, the team’s role in this showdown will remain pivotal, as a win could significantly impact the AFC East landscape.
Patriots vs Bills final injury report for Week 17 clash
For the Patriots, wide receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster is sidelined with an ankle injury after missing practice. However, there has been a glimmer of hope as no players are listed as doubtful.
Nevertheless, a cluster of the Patriots’ key players remains questionable, including defensive lineman Christian Barmore (knee), defensive back Myles Bryant (chest), safety Kyle Dugger (illness), tight end Hunter Henry (knee), cornerback Anfernee Jennings (knee), cornerback Jonathan Jones (knee), safety Jabrill Peppers (hamstring), Matthew Slater (hamstring), and cornerback Shaun Wade (hip). Except for Dugger, all others had limited participation in practice.
The Pats, though, have seen positive developments with several names removed from the injury list, including Ja’Whaun Bentley, Trent Brown, Kayshon Boutte, Ezekiel Elliott, and Jalen Mills. Besides that, Tyrone Wheatley returned as a full participant in practice.
Contrastingly, the Bills will head into this crucial matchup in relatively better shape, with no players ruled out or listed as doubtful. They have listed four players as questionable, including defensive A.J. Epenesa (rib), safety Damar Hamlin (shoulder), defensive tackle DaQuan Jones (pectoral), and wide receiver Justin Shorter (hamstring).
Who do you think will win the Patriots vs. Bills match?
