As the Chiefs often do under defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo, they brought a heavy blitz, and Allen had to backpedal away from defenders. He threw up a wobbly prayer deep downfield, and it was nearly answered by tight end Dalton Kincaid, who just missed hauling in the heave and keeping the Bills' comeback hopes alive.

Last year’s playoff exit was met with a sense of finality. With a slew of free agents, an aging roster and cap concerns, the Bills knew hard decisions were coming. Many equated that to a step back in their championship chase. All it did was provide an opportunity for a step forward.