On Monday night, the highly anticipated showdown between the Buffalo Bills and the Atlanta Falcons was set to be James Cook’s breakout moment. But what unfolded was a whirlwind of confusion and disappointment! Cook started strong, showcasing his skills with impressive runs, only to suddenly find himself benched during critical moments as the Bills’ offense crumbled in a shocking 24–14 defeat.
The unexpected decision left fans reeling, igniting a firestorm on social media. One fan’s unforgettable comment went viral, capturing the frustration with dry humor.
“I’m not an NFL head coach or coordinator, but if I have only one receiver that gets open. I’m probably not sitting James Cook? Then again I voted for Donald Trump . #BuffaloBills 🇺🇲.”
I'm not an NFL head coach or coordinator, but if I have only one receiver that gets open. I'm probably not sitting James Cook? Them again I voted for Donald Trump . #BuffaloBills 🇺🇲
— The Greek 🇺🇲🎙️ (@T202Yno) October 14, 2025
Joe Brady’s Decisions Under Scrutiny as Devin Cook Sees Limited Action in Buffalo Loss
Even before Monday’s defeat, there were growing doubts about offensive coordinator Joe Brady’s inconsistent use of Cook in the showdown. In six weeks, the 25-year-old running back had averaged 4.7 yards per carry and led the rushing chart with 447 yards and two touchdowns. However, when Buffalo’s offense went cold in Atlanta, Cook’s involvement dwindled without a clear explanation.
With constant pressure, Josh Allen passed and threw 210 yards and two interceptions, taking 20 hits and was sacked twice. The absence of Cook in crucial downs was severely criticized. The fact that he is a versatile pass-catcher out of the backfield would have given welcome relief to an offense that appeared lost following an ankle injury by Joshua Palmer in the first half.
The Falcons, on their part, displayed exactly what Buffalo did not have. Robinson was not merely running but planning to play, circulating far, switching with pre-snap, and mismatching. Buffalo’s approach with Cook was stiff, an opportunity that Atlanta had been able to capitalize on in the defense.
Following the game, head coach Sean McDermott justified the team’s choices based on standards and execution.
“Cook is a talented player, but we have to hold everyone accountable. Ball security is one of our standards, and that guides how we use him.”
However, his voice was not strong enough to mask the brewing discontent of fans, who considered Cook’s benching a metaphor for Buffalo’s more profound identity crisis on offense.
