When you think of the Buffalo Bills, the first thought that comes to mind for most if not all fans is Josh Allen. It’s completely understandable because of his greatness. At the same time, James Cook has become one of the best running backs in the NFL over the last two seasons.
He led the league in rushing touchdowns in 2024 (16), and then won the rushing title last season (1,621 yards). Now in the Bills' last two games against the Lions, he has picked up his production after a bit of a quiet Week 1 performance against the Texans.
Over the last two weeks, Cook has rushed for 289 yards and 2 touchdowns (346 yards in total). Heading into today's game against the New England Patriots, he is averaging 6 yards per carry which is the most in the NFL. He will now look to continue that momentum in an AFC East showdown against the Patriots.
James Cook can be difference maker for Bills against Patriots
Despite being 1-2, New England's run-defense has been solid through their first three games. It's just been their offense led by Drake Maye that has been horrendous.
The Patriots have only allowed an average of 108.3 yards per game on the ground, but they didn't allow the Seahawks or Steelers to rush for over 100 yards in the first two games. Last week's game against the Jaguars was a different story.
Now, they will be going up against a running back in Cook who is very patient behind his offensive line, and then breaks into the second level to pick up the first down. The last time the Bills and Patriots met last season in Week 15, Cook rushed for 107 yards and 2 touchdowns in Buffalo's comeback win.
Week 4 AFC East game could come down to James Cook's production
Don't get me wrong, having Josh Allen playing lights out certainly helps out the Bills. At the same time, we have seen plenty of games where he plays like a superstar and the Bills still fall short. However, it's very hard to pick a time where when Cook has a breakout game that the Bills don't win.
One thing that helps Cook going up against the Patriots is that they will be without Christian Barmore (along with Christian Gonzalez) on the defense. Barmore tends to play very well against the Bills in the trenches, so Cook won't have to worry about him.
If the Bills can get Cook going early and not let up on the rushing attack, the Bills will be set up in a better position to get to 4-0 and take an even more huge control on the division in the first month of the season. Kickoff from Orchard Park is at 1PM EST, and we can't wait for this epic matchup between two bitter rivals.
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