What if Josh Allen had been the quarterback during the Jauron and Gailey eras? The speculation continues.
During the 2006 season, the Bills were in contention for a playoff spot, trailing the sixth-seeded Kansas City Chiefs by just two games. With Allen at the helm, it’s conceivable they could have won enough games to secure the fifth seed. Several close losses, such as those against the New England Patriots, New York Jets, and others, could have swung in Buffalo’s favor with Allen’s playmaking abilities. Predictions suggest they could have finished 11-5 and secured a playoff berth.
In 2007, the Bills struggled with one of the league’s worst offenses but maintained a formidable defense. While Allen might have influenced a few games, it’s doubtful they could have made enough of a difference to secure a playoff spot, ending the season with a predicted 9-7 record.
In 2008, with Allen, the Bills could have won their division but likely would have lost in the Wild Card round to the Baltimore Ravens.
In 2009, despite a rocky start under Jauron, Allen’s impact could have significantly improved the team’s performance. With Allen’s talent, the Bills could have secured more wins, potentially finishing 10-6 and winning the AFC East.
Moving into the Chan Gailey era, the Bills’ fortunes remained mixed. In 2010, they would still have finished 8-8 and missed the playoffs despite Allen’s presence.
In 2011, although the Bills improved to 6-10, it wasn’t enough to compete with the dominant New England Patriots. Allen’s influence might have helped secure a few more wins, but a playoff spot would have remained elusive.
In 2012, even with Allen, the Bills would have likely finished 6-10 again, although they could have won a few more games with his playmaking abilities.
In summary, while Josh Allen could have significantly impacted the Bills’ performance during the Jauron and Gailey eras, securing playoff spots in some seasons and improving overall win totals, achieving consistent success would have remained a challenge given the team’s broader context and competition within the AFC.