Buffalo Bills rookie quarterback Josh Allen showed Sunday against the Vikings what a franchise quarterback can do. Not that Allen has fully claimed that title just yet, but a season of highlights like the ones he showed Sunday and he’s well on his way.

Once the Vikings gave Buffalo new life on their first possession with a roughing the passer call on third and long, Allen drove the team down the field for a first quarter TD, first of the season. That drive seemed to ignite the Bills’ defense, playing with the lead for the first time this season and they created back to back Viking turnovers which Allen turned into another ten points.

Of course Allen’s airborne dive to the pylon on his first score and hurdle over Minnesota linebacker Anthony Barr have flooded social media, but his steady play throughout the half elevated this Bills team to another level.

I was there September 7th, 1986 when Jim Kelly started his first NFL game in a Bills uniform against the New York Jets and while the game ended in a Bills defeat Kelly immediately elevated the team’s play after back to back 2-14 seasons.

Kelly had two full seasons in the USFL to sharpen his skills before suiting up as a Buffalo Bill. Allen does not have that luxury, but his physical skills are obvious and his enthusiasm is contagious.

Tyrod Taylor is a strong leader and first class person, but his play was rarely at a level that he made others around him better. When Josh Allen hurdled Barr, the Bills’ defense came off the bench to shout their amazement and it fed their desire to get back on the field.

Allen has made significant strides since the second half against the Ravens. While missing several protection calls at the line of scrimmage which resulted in sacks, Allen’s physical skills were obvious. Against Minnesota, Allen showed better awareness, especially under pressure. His arm strength allows him to throw into tight spaces and once he develops a bit more touch his accuracy there will not be a pass he cannot complete.

Josh Allen looks to be the real deal and his highlight reel performance against the Minnesota Vikings may be the shining star in the north Bills fans have been looking for.

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