It’s not every day you see a team that’s locked in their playoff seeding roll the dice in the final game of the season. Yet here we are, folks, watching Sean McDermott make a decision that’s sure to spark some chatter at every Bills Mafia tailgate. With the Buffalo Bills locked in as the AFC’s No. 2 seed, this Week 18 game against the Patriots doesn’t exactly scream “high stakes.” But for Damar Hamlin and Taylor Rapp, it’s shaping up to be pivotal.
When asked about his reasoning, McDermott didn’t hesitate to dive into the “why” behind playing two key defensive starters in what amounts to a dress rehearsal. “No, he’s going to play,” McDermott said about Hamlin, before clarifying that Rapp will also get some snaps. “How much he plays remains to be seen, but I do think it’s important. He’s been out a significant amount of time, and he needs to get out there, even if it’s for the whole game. We’ll see how it goes.”
Did you catch that? The whole game. That’s a bold call for a player who’s missed the last few weeks. And honestly, you can’t help but feel like McDermott is channeling his inner chess master here. Because, sure, it’s risky, but also kind of genius.
Why the Reps Matter
Let’s break it down. Hamlin and Rapp aren’t just anyone on this Bills defense. They’re the starting safeties tasked with keeping opposing offenses in check. But it’s not just about individual performance—it’s about their chemistry as a duo. And McDermott? He’s all in on making sure these two are in sync before Wild Card Weekend.
“We’ve had it before where guys come back from injury and their first game is in the playoffs,” McDermott explained. “Wanting to play in the playoffs, everyone does. But being able to do it at the level you need? That’s another challenge. So in this case, seeing Damar out there in his first game back is important. Important for him, important for us.”
Translation: McDermott’s been burned before by throwing a player into the playoff fire without any recent live reps. And honestly, the logic tracks. There’s a difference between being physically cleared to play and actually playing. Anyone who’s ever tried to sprint after sitting on the couch all winter can attest to that.
The Bigger Picture
Even if this game doesn’t matter for standings, it’s a chance to iron out the wrinkles. Hamlin and Rapp have been solid, but solid isn’t enough in the playoffs. Communication? Vital. Knowing when to rotate or pass off coverage? Critical. One blown coverage, and suddenly, the game’s on the line.
By giving them live snaps, McDermott’s betting on their ability to sharpen that on-field communication. And honestly, it might pay off big. When Buffalo lines up against a playoff opponent, they’re going to need every advantage.
The Risk Factor
Of course, no decision like this comes without risks. There’s the glaringly obvious concern: injury. What if one of them tweaks something—or worse? Fans are already divided on whether this gamble is worth it. Some are calling it “brilliant,” while others are muttering about “unnecessary risks.”
And then there’s the psychological factor. For Hamlin, stepping back onto the field after missing time could be both exhilarating and nerve-wracking. Will the confidence be there? Will the rhythm come back quickly enough to matter?
What’s Next?
For McDermott, it’s all about looking ahead. His focus isn’t on the Patriots game itself—it’s on how the Bills will fare in the postseason. And honestly? You can’t knock a guy for wanting his team at full tilt when it counts most.
So, while the rest of us debate whether this is a savvy move or a head-scratcher, McDermott is sticking to his plan. Hamlin and Rapp are suiting up, and we’re about to see how this gamble plays out.
Will it be the spark that lights the Bills’ playoff fire—or a misstep that comes back to haunt them? Either way, you can bet we’ll all be watching.
PS: Do you think McDermott’s strategy is a winner or a risk too far? Let me know—I’m already half a bag of chips deep waiting for this debate to heat up.