The Buffalo Bills are turning to the next page of their 2025 NFL season against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Following another offseason that has built Super Bowl hopes, can the Bills continue their trek toward making that a reality?
Before we even get to the team’s next kickoff, there will be a lot of Bills-related discussions and conversations to be had throughout the coming days.
With that, here are five storylines to watch for during the lead up to Bills (6-3) against the Buccaneers (6-3) in Week 11 at Highmark Stadium:
Being questioned like never before
Speaking on the short-term history of the Bills under the watch of head coach Sean McDermott with quarterback Josh Allen under center, this team will be questioned throughout this week unlike they ever have before. This is a team accustomed to winning.
Of course, Buffalo has a 6-3 record. They’ve been winning even in 2025.
However, with the way both losses and wins have gone this season, there are rightful questions to be asked in western New York. Is this team good enough? Are they a contender?
That doesn’t mean those critics cannot be silenced.
Both teams need it
And what is making those questions louder is not just the past schedule, it’s the upcoming slate starting with the Buccaneers. It’s another team that’s expected to be doing better right now… who also have an identical record.
Two teams at a crossroads are meeting. The Bills are playing a Bucs team who need this win just as bad as them.
Josh and Baker
In a less serious matter, similar to when the Bills face other quarterbacks from the 2018 draft class, it’s all about Allen against that team and QB.
This time it’s the Buccaneers and Baker Mayfield, who was the No. 1 pick that year by the Cleveland Browns. For those who forget, Allen was selected seventh.
Bills wide receiver room
All has not been well for Allen and the Bills heading into this clash, though. Buffalo’s offense has left a lot to be desired, specifically in the passing game.
Most do not pin that on Allen, rather, it is because of the wide receivers. The Bills likely have the worst unit in the NFL. Could help be on the way?
Josh Palmer (ankle/knee) has been hurt, but can he return to face the Bucs? What about Gabe Davis and the recently-signed Mecole Hardman on the practice squad? Will the Bills call them up?
Weapons on the outside are needed.
Secondary promise or worries?
On the flip side, Mayfield and the Bucs have had a strong offense for most of the season. Mayfield has even been in MVP discussions.
The Bills have struggled to stop opposing offenses all over the place in 2025. As far as the pass defense is concerned, will Buffalo get a good or poor outing? Despite struggles, young defensive backs Maxwell Hairston and Cole Bishop have instilled faith as of late.
This article originally appeared on Bills Wire: Bills vs. Buccaneers: 5 storylines to watch for during lead up to Week 11
