Love is undeniably in the air for the Buffalo Bills, and it’s being touted as a key factor in Josh Allen’s extraordinary performances this season. Leading his team to an impressive 11-3 record and securing a fifth consecutive AFC East title, the 28-year-old quarterback is having the best season of his seven-year NFL career. His remarkable form has made him the clear favorite for his first NFL Most Valuable Player award.
Allen credits his recent engagement to actress and singer Hailee Steinfeld as a significant influence on his success. Speaking to The Associated Press on Wednesday, Allen confirmed what many are calling “The Hailee Steinfeld Effect.”
“She’s been a huge part of it—the morale, the support,” Allen said. “When I get home, she’s my biggest fan, my biggest supporter. She’s just the best.”
Since proposing during the Bills’ Week 12 bye, Allen’s play has reached unprecedented heights. Over the past three games, the two-time Pro Bowler has been unstoppable, throwing for seven touchdowns and scoring six more, including a reception of his own pass.
In Week 14, despite a narrow 44-42 loss to the Los Angeles Rams, Allen accounted for six total touchdowns (three passing, three rushing) and set a then-season high of 342 passing yards. He outdid himself the following week, throwing for a season-best 362 yards and scoring four touchdowns (two passing, two rushing) in a thrilling 48-42 victory over the NFC-leading Detroit Lions.
Steinfeld’s influence isn’t lost on Allen’s teammates. Tackle Dion Dawkins praised the stability and joy she brings to the quarterback’s life, which has positively impacted the entire team.
“He’s having fun because everything around him is right,” Dawkins said. “When he’s right, we’re right. And when we’re right, he’s right. It’s a fun year.”
Dawkins elaborated on the value of a supportive partner in a high-pressure environment like the NFL:
“For anyone with a significant other, they understand the weight that person carries. In this world, where there’s so much pulling at you, having that one stable person to rely on, to hug, and to laugh with, no matter what, is huge. I think that’s what’s happening here.”
With Allen playing at an MVP level and the Bills hitting their stride, it’s clear that both love and football are thriving in Buffalo.
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