Bills Honor Iconic Orchard Park Moments: Three Historic Games on September 24
As the Buffalo Bills embark on what could be the final season inside Orchard Park’s iconic stadium, fans are reliving the moments that made the venue legendary. With more than 400 games played there over 52 seasons, September 24 stands out as a date filled with drama, grit, and unforgettable plays.
1978 – Bills 24, Colts 17
Under new head coach Chuck Knox, the Bills kicked off a fresh era with fireworks. Joe Ferguson’s quick strikes to Reuben Gant and Frank Lewis got Buffalo rolling, before Curtis Brown electrified the 55,270 in attendance with a 102-yard kickoff return—still one of the longest in team history. Terry Miller nearly hit 100 yards on the ground, and the defense sealed the deal with three interceptions. Knox’s first win in Buffalo set the tone for years to come, while across the field, Baltimore’s Ted Marchibroda would later become Buffalo’s offensive coordinator.
2006 – Jets 28, Bills 20
A sold-out Ralph Wilson Stadium roared when J.P. Losman hit Roscoe Parrish for a 51-yard touchdown just 52 seconds into the game. But despite throwing for 328 yards and rushing for another score, Losman’s turnovers—three in total, including a devastating fumble returned for a Jets touchdown—proved costly. Willis McGahee’s 150-yard rushing effort wasn’t enough as Buffalo’s final comeback attempt fell short. Fans were left wondering: what could have been without the miscues?
2017 – Bills 26, Broncos 16
This one belonged to both sides of the ball. Tyrod Taylor threw two touchdowns, while the defense—led by rookie Tre’Davious White’s first career interception—locked down Denver late, stopping two critical fourth-down attempts. Dion Dawkins impressed in his first NFL start at tackle, and a bizarre penalty on Von Miller’s fake handshake extended a key Bills drive. Off the field, emotions ran high as players on both sides knelt during the national anthem in response to then-President Donald Trump’s comments.
Each season adds new chapters to the legacy of Orchard Park. These three games—spanning nearly 40 years—capture the passion, resilience, and chaos of Bills football. For fans, it’s never just about the scoreboard. It’s about moments that live forever.
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