Bills have reestablished run game after Cook's impressive performance

Buffalo Bills running back James Cook. Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

Bills have reestablished run game after James Cook's impressive performance

By Zachary Cariola | Last updated Oct 27, 2025 12:46 PM ET

The Buffalo Bills got back into the win column on Sunday in commanding fashion, dominating the Carolina Panthers, 40-9.

Running back James Cook had his best game of the season, scoring two of the Bills’ five touchdowns and accounting for 216 yards on 19 carries. Quarterback Josh Allen was impressed with Cook’s performance, which was historic in nature, and unlocked another level of their offense heading into Week 9.

Josh Allen has been impressed with James Cook’s "efficiency"

Becoming the fourth player in NFL history to have 215+ rushing yards and two or more touchdowns on fewer than 20 carries, joining Derrick Henry, Bo Jackson and Hall of Famer Bobby Mitchell, Cook has reestablished his case as one of the top running backs in the league. Having 80 more yards than he had in the previous two weeks combined, Allen admired Cook’s ability to remain "efficient" despite offensive coordinator Joe Brady getting away from him.

"I think if you look at the efficiency that he’s had, how many rushes did he have today? 19. I mean, he’s playing outstanding," Allen said to Steve Reed of the Associated Press. "I think the more times we get the ball in his hands, the better that we’re going to be. Same thing with (Shakir), just getting the ball in his hands, letting him make some plays for us."

Cook’s 216 yards were the most he’s had in a single game, regular season or postseason, during his NFL career. It was his first two-touchdown game since Week 2 against the New York Jets.

Bills establishing run game can help them take down Chiefs

The Bills are reestablishing the run game during a critical time in their schedule, as they play the defending AFC champion Kansas City Chiefs in Week 9. The Chiefs have proved to be one of the better teams at stopping the run this season, allowing 740 yards.

Allen is off to a slower start through the first eight weeks of this season compared to last season, having thrown for 1,560 yards with 12 touchdowns and four interceptions. He had 1,766 yards with 14 touchdowns and one interception through the first eight weeks last year. Still one of the better quarterbacks regardless of his slow start, pairing a strong run game with Allen’s ability to be "Superman" will be key to winning against the Chiefs, especially with the advantage of playing at home.

Zachary Cariola

My name is Zachary Cariola and I have been a sports fan for as long as I can remember. My areas of expertise are MLB, NBA, and NFL. You can find my other work on Southside Showdown from FanSided and at Chicitysports where I cover all Chicago sports. When not watching sports, I love spending time with my family and learning history.

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