Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott provided a measured explanation for his team’s 34-25 loss to the New York Giants in the first preseason game.

McDermott emphasized that the primary objective of the preseason is not to win, but to evaluate players and prepare for the regular season. He was content with what he saw from many of the players on the field, particularly the backups and those fighting for a roster spot.

McDermott pointed to the quarterback battle between Mitchell Trubisky and Mike White as a key focus. He noted that both players had some positive moments, moving the ball down the field and making some good throws. The coach also praised the valuable experience gained by many of the younger and less-experienced players who were getting their first taste of NFL game action.

A surprising but telling moment was when McDermott opted to use running back Ray Davis as an emergency kicker to convert an extra point. The coach later explained that this was a deliberate test to see how the team would handle an unexpected situation, comparing it to a “pit stop in racing.” The successful conversion gave McDermott confidence in the team’s ability to adapt.

While the final score was a loss, McDermott’s post-game comments highlighted his strategic, long-term approach. He was less concerned with the outcome of one preseason game and more focused on the lessons learned and the development of the team’s depth. He viewed the game as a crucial step in preparing the Bills for the challenges of the upcoming regular season.

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