ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — September 27, 2026 — The Buffalo Bills overcame a turnover-filled afternoon and a 10-point first-quarter deficit to defeat the Los Angeles Chargers 24–16 at Highmark Stadium, improving to 3–0 on the season.
First-Half Struggle
Buffalo’s offense endured a difficult opening half. James Cook fumbled on the first offensive snap, while Josh Allen threw two interceptions in the first quarter. Los Angeles capitalized, building a 10–0 lead.
The Bills finally answered late in the second quarter. Tyler Bass kicked a 28-yard field goal before Allen capped an 80-yard drive with a 1-yard touchdown run, sending the teams into halftime tied 10–10.
Chargers Regain the Lead
Los Angeles regained the advantage in the third quarter when Cameron Dicker connected on a 21-yard field goal.
Buffalo continued to struggle with turnovers, but its defense repeatedly prevented the Chargers from turning those opportunities into touchdowns.
Fourth-Quarter Comeback
The turning point came early in the fourth quarter.
After Allen was sacked on consecutive plays and lost a fumble, C.J. Gardner-Johnson intercepted Justin Herbert near the Buffalo goal line and returned it 41 yards.
Buffalo then drove deep into Chargers territory. Allen finished the possession himself with another 1-yard rushing touchdown, putting Buffalo ahead 17–13 with 7:35 remaining.
The Bills defense forced another crucial stop, and James Cook put the game away with a 3-yard touchdown run with 3:13 remaining.
Key Performers
Josh Allen: 16-of-26 passing for 204 yards, plus 22 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns.
James Cook: A huge afternoon on the ground with 154 rushing yards on 24 carries and a touchdown.
Greg Rousseau: Two sacks, giving him six through Buffalo’s first three games. The Bills noted that this is the most sacks by a Buffalo player through three games in team history.
C.J. Gardner-Johnson: His fourth-quarter interception helped swing momentum toward Buffalo.
Turning Point
The Bills’ ability to survive five turnovers was the defining story. Los Angeles repeatedly received favorable field position but managed only 16 points. Buffalo’s defense forced the Chargers into field goals and stops when touchdowns were needed.
Final
Los Angeles Chargers 16
Buffalo Bills 24
Buffalo moves to 3–0, while Los Angeles falls to 0–3. The Bills close their three-game homestand next Sunday against the New England Patriots.
