The Buffalo Bills (5-3) are set to face the Cincinnati Bengals (4-3) this upcoming Sunday night, marking their return to Cincinnati since safety Damar Hamlin’s near-fatal incident at Paycor Stadium on January 2.
Bills quarterback Josh Allen reflected on the challenging experience he and his teammates went through when Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest in front of a national audience during a “Monday Night Football” game. Allen explained that the weeks following the incident were emotionally taxing, but receiving positive updates on Hamlin’s condition greatly lifted their spirits and mentality. He stated that it was a lot for the team to handle, and Hamlin’s situation weighed heavily on their minds throughout the remainder of the season. However, Hamlin’s remarkable recovery and return to the team served as an inspiration, not only to the Bills but to people around the world. Allen highlighted the positive impact Hamlin has had.
In January, Hamlin required CPR on the field before being transported to a local hospital and stabilized. The Bills had a successful regular season with a record of 13-3, earning a wild-card win over the Miami Dolphins. However, they were defeated by the Bengals in the subsequent playoff round. Bills players acknowledged that the season had been emotionally draining for various reasons.
Hamlin made the Bills’ initial 53-man roster in August but has only been active for a single game this season. It remains uncertain whether he will play in Cincinnati. Josh Allen praised Hamlin’s significant off-field contributions in raising awareness about CPR and fundraising for defibrillators at high schools and youth sports events. Allen expressed admiration for Hamlin’s ability to turn a tragic life moment into a positive movement that could potentially save lives.
As of Tuesday afternoon, OddsChecker listed Hamlin as the favored candidate with -105 odds for the Comeback Player of the Year award for this season. The same outlet indicated that the Bills are three-point underdogs against the Bengals in what is expected to be an emotional contest for both teams.
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