Bills’ Joe Brady Unlocks Smarter Josh Allen; Babich Zeroes In on Third-Down Fixes

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen has evolved into more than just a highlight-reel star. Offensive coordinator Joe Brady loves the big throws, but what excites him most is Allen’s ability to check the ball down when needed.

“Those are things that aren't sexy, but they're great plays – and they frustrate defenses,” Brady said.

In the Bills’ 31-21 win over the Dolphins, Allen leaned on a short passing game, adjusting to Miami’s split-safety coverages. He completed 22 of 28 passes for 213 yards and three touchdowns. His longest gain was a 30-yard strike to Elijah Moore, but according to Next Gen Stats, only one throw traveled more than 10 air yards.

“If defenses give us those looks and Josh stays efficient, eventually they’ll have to switch it up – and then the deep shots will open,” Brady said.

Still, Brady insists Allen has the green light to take big plays when they’re there. “I’d love to see more deep shots, but Josh did what we needed to win.”

Balancing the Backfield

Running back James Cook saw 67% of the snaps, racking up 108 yards. Brady admitted he wants to get Ray Davis and Ty Johnson more involved but doesn’t want to force it.

“I’m sure Ray wants the ball, but he never complains. That’s the culture we have – it’s all about winning,” Brady said.

Tight Ends Shine

Two of Buffalo’s touchdowns came from tight ends. Dalton Kincaid opened the scoring with a 20-yard TD and finished with five catches for 66 yards. Rookie Jackson Hawes added his first career score on a 5-yard pass from Allen.

“Kincaid is a spark for us, and Hawes showed great awareness sticking with Josh on that play,” Brady said.

Third-Down Defense Concerns

Defensive coordinator Bobby Babich acknowledged Miami’s success on third down (10-of-15).

“We’ve got to get off the field. It starts with me putting our guys in the right position. We’ll fix it,” Babich said.

Buffalo’s defense bent but didn’t break, sealing the win with Terrel Bernard’s clutch interception. The Bills sit at 3-0 but know improvements are needed.