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{{short description|33rd season in franchise history, third straight Super Bowl appearance and loss}} {{short description|33rd season in franchise history, third straight Super Bowl appearance and loss}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=November 2013}} {{Use mdy dates|date=November 2013}}
{{Infobox NFL season {{Infobox NFL team season
| team = Buffalo Bills | team = Buffalo Bills
| year = 1992 | year = 1992
Line 10: Line 10:
| owner = ] | owner = ]
| stadium = ] | stadium = ]
| playoffs = '''Won ]''' (vs. ]) ] {{small|(OT)}}<br />'''Won ]''' (at ]) 24–3<br />'''Won ]''' (at ]) 29–10<br /> Lost ] (vs. ]) 17–52 | playoffs = '''Won ]'''<br>(vs. ]) ]<br />'''Won ]'''<br>(at ]) 24–3<br />'''Won ]'''<br>(at ]) 29–10<br /> Lost ]<br>(vs. ]) 17–52
| pro_bowlers = {{collapsible list | pro_bowlers = {{collapsible list
| title = 10 | title = 10
Line 17: Line 17:
|WR ] |WR ]
|OT ] |OT ]
|OT ] |OT ]
|G ] |G ]
|OLB ] |OLB ]
|DT ] |DT ]
|SS ] |SS ]
|ST ] |ST ]
}} }}
| AP All-pros = {{collapsible list | AP All-pros = {{collapsible list
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}} }}


The '''1992 Buffalo Bills season''' was the 33rd season for the team in the ]. The ] finished the ]'s ] with a record of 11 wins and 5 losses, and finished second in the ] ] division. The Bills qualified for their third straight ] appearance, but lost to the ] 52–17. The '''1992 Buffalo Bills season''' was the 33rd season for the team in the ] (NFL). The ] entered the season as defending back to back AFC champions and finished the ]'s ] with a record of 11 wins and 5 losses, and finished second in the ] ] division. The Bills qualified for their third straight ] appearance, but were dealt their third loss in as many appearances, this time falling to the ] by a score of 52–17. This would be the only time the Bills did not finish first in the AFC Eastern Division from 1988 to 1993.


==Season summary== ==Season summary==
The season is notable for Buffalo's ] in this year, known as "]", in which the Bills, down 35–3, ended up winning in overtime. The game has since gone down in NFL lore. The game was the first of three Buffalo playoff wins (the two others were at Pittsburgh and at Miami) that allowed the Bills to win their third consecutive ]. In ], Dallas beat Buffalo, 52–17. The season is notable for Buffalo's ] in this year, known as "]", in which the Bills, down 35–3, ended up winning in overtime 41-38. The game was the first of three Buffalo playoff wins (the two others were at Pittsburgh and at Miami) that allowed the Bills to win their third consecutive ]. In ], Dallas beat Buffalo, 52–17.


In Week Two of the season, the Bills traveled to San Francisco, defeating the ] 34–31. The ] was notable for being the ] without a ] by either team.<ref>Bills at 49ers (original broadcast) at ]: | Parts {{!}} 2 {{!}} {{!}} {{!}} {{!}} {{!}} {{!}} {{!}} {{!}} {{!}} 11 {{!}} </ref> In Week Two of the season, the Bills traveled to San Francisco, defeating the ] 34–31. The ] was notable for being the ] without a ] by either team.<ref>Bills at 49ers (original broadcast) at ]: | Parts {{!}} 2 {{!}} {{!}} {{!}} {{!}} {{!}} {{!}} {{!}} {{!}} {{!}} 11 {{!}} </ref>


== Offseason == == Offseason ==
{| class="wikitable"

=== NFL Draft ===
{{Main|1992 NFL Draft}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|+ style="{{NFLPrimaryStyle|Buffalo Bills|year=1992|border=2}}"| 1992 Buffalo Bills Draft
|- |-
!Additions || Subtractions
! Round !! Selection !! Player !! Position !! College !! Notes
|- |-
|DE ] (Steelers) || LB ] (Bengals)
! 1
! 27
|]
|]
|]
|
|- |-
|RB ] (Chiefs) || K ] (retirement)
! 3
! 83
|]
|]
|]
|
|- |-
| || G ] (Chiefs)
! 4
! 111
|]
|]
|]
|
|- |-
| || TE ] (Cardinals)
! 5
! 139
|]
|]
|]
|
|- |-
| || DE ] (Eagles)
! 6
|}
!167

|]
=== NFL Draft ===
|]
{{Main|1992 NFL draft}}
|]
{{NFL team draft start
|
| year = 1992
| teamname = Buffalo Bills
}}
{{NFL team draft entry
| round = 1
| pick = 27
| player = ]
| position = ]
| college = ]
| notes =
| maderoster = yes
}}
{{NFL team draft entry
| round = 3
| pick = 83
| player = ]
| position = ]
| college = ]
| notes =
| maderoster = yes
}}
{{NFL team draft entry
| round = 4
| pick = 111
| player = ]
| position = ]
| college = ]
| notes =
| maderoster = no
}}
{{NFL team draft entry
| round = 5
| pick = 139
| player = ]
| position = ]
| college = ]
| notes =
| maderoster = yes
}}
{{NFL team draft entry
| round = 6
| pick = 167
| player = ]
| position = ]
| college = ]
| notes =
| maderoster = yes
}}
{{NFL team draft entry
| round = 7
| pick = 195
| player = ]
| position = Safety
| college = ]
| notes =
| maderoster = yes
}}
{{NFL team draft entry
| round = 8
| pick = 223
| player = ]
| position = ]
| college = Penn State
| notes =
| maderoster = no
}}
{{NFL team draft entry
| round = 9
| pick = 251
| player = ]
| position = ]
| college = ]
| notes =
| maderoster = yes
}}
{{NFL team draft entry
| round = 10
| pick = 279
| player = ]
| position = Wide receiver
| college = ]
| notes =
| maderoster = no
}}
{{NFL team draft entry
| round = 11
| pick = 307
| player = ]
| position = ]
| college = ]
| notes =
| maderoster = no
}}
{{NFL team draft entry
| round = 12
| pick = 335
| player = ]
| position = ]
| college = ]
| notes =
| maderoster = no
}}
{{NFL team draft end
| probowl = no
| hof = no
}}

===Undrafted free agents===

{| class="wikitable"
|+ 1992 Undrafted Free Agents of note
!Player
!Position
!College
|- |-
|Jason Childs
! 7
|Tackle
! 195
|]
| ]
| S
| ]
|
|- |-
|Jim Crouch
! 8
|Kicker
! 223
|]
| Leonard Humphries
| CB
| Penn State
|
|- |-
|Doug Helkowski
! 9
|Punter
! 251
|] |]
|]
| ]
|
|-
! 10
! 279
|Barry Rose
|WR
|]
|
|-
! 11
! 307
|]
|]
|]
|
|-
! 12
! 335
|Matt Rodgers
|]
|]
|
|} |}


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| front_office = | front_office =
* President – ] * President – ]
* Vice President of Administration/General Manager – ] * Vice-president of administration/general manager – ]
* Vice President of Football Operations – ] * Vice-president of football operations – ]
* Assistant General Manager/Director of Pro Personnel – Bob Ferguson * Assistant general manager/director of pro personnel – ]
* Director of Player Personnel – ] * Director of player personnel – ]
* Assistant Director/Collegiate Scouting – ] * Assistant director/collegiate scouting – ]
| head_coach = | head_coach =
* Head Coach – Marv Levy * Head coach – Marv Levy
* Assistant Head Coach – ] * Assistant head coach/running backs – ]
* Administrative Assistant to the Head Coach – Chuck Lester * Administrative assistant to the head coach/Defensive Quality Control – Chuck Lester
| offensive = | offensive =
* Offensive Coordinator/Offensive Line – ] * Offensive coordinator/offensive line – ]
* Quarterbacks – ] * Quarterbacks – ]
* Running Backs – Elijah Pitts
* Receivers – ] * Receivers – ]
* Offensive Quality Control/Tight Ends – ] * Offensive quality control/tight ends – ]
| defensive = | defensive =
* Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers – ] * Defensive coordinator/linebackers – ]
* Defensive Line – Dan Sekanovich * Defensive line – Dan Sekanovich
* Defensive Backs – Dick Roach * Defensive backs – Dick Roach
* Defensive Quality Control – Chuck Lester
| special_teams = | special_teams =
* Special Teams – ] * Special teams – ]
| strength = | strength =
* Strength and Conditioning Coordinator – ] * Strength and conditioning coordinator – ]
}} }}
<ref>{{cite book |title=1992 Buffalo Bills Media Guide |pages=2–23 }}</ref> <ref>{{cite book |title=1992 Buffalo Bills Media Guide |pages=2–23 }}</ref>
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{{NFLplayer|73|Mike Lodish|NT}} {{NFLplayer|73|Mike Lodish|NT}}
{{NFLplayer|94|Mark Pike|DE}} {{NFLplayer|94|Mark Pike|DE}}
{{NFLplayer|78|Bruce Smith|d=defensive end|DE}} {{NFLplayer|78|Bruce Smith|DE}}
{{NFLplayer|93|Keith Willis|DE}} {{NFLplayer|93|Keith Willis|DE}}
{{NFLplayer|91|Jeff Wright|d=defensive tackle|NT}} {{NFLplayer|91|Jeff Wright|d=defensive tackle|NT}}
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{{NFLplayer|56|Darryl Talley|ILB}} {{NFLplayer|56|Darryl Talley|ILB}}


| defensive_backs = | defensive_back =
{{NFLplayer|43|Matt Darby|d=American football|rookie=y|SS}} {{NFLplayer|43|Matt Darby|d=American football|rookie=y|SS}}
{{NFLplayer|27|Cliff Hicks|CB/PR}} {{NFLplayer|27|Cliff Hicks|CB/PR}}
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{{NFLplayer|37|Nate Odomes|CB}} {{NFLplayer|37|Nate Odomes|CB}}
{{NFLplayer|24|Kurt Schulz|rookie=y|FS}} {{NFLplayer|24|Kurt Schulz|rookie=y|FS}}
{{NFLplayer|29|James Williams|d=defensive back|CB}} {{NFLplayer|31|James Williams|d=cornerback|CB}}


| special_teams = | special_teams =
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{{NFLplayer|81|Brad Lamb|d=American football|WR/KR|IR}} {{NFLplayer|81|Brad Lamb|d=American football|WR/KR|IR}}
{{NFLplayer|99|James Patton|d=defensive lineman|rookie=y|NT|IR}} {{NFLplayer|99|James Patton|d=defensive lineman|rookie=y|NT|IR}}
{{NFLplayer|--|Jeff Stephenson|LB|IR}} {{NFLplayer|61|Jeff Stephenson|LB|IR}}
{{NFLplayer|--|Ed Thomas|d=tight end|TE|IR}} {{NFLplayer|87|Ed Thomas|d=tight end|TE|IR}}
{{NFLplayer|21|Nate Turner|rookie=y|FB|IR}} {{NFLplayer|49|Nate Turner|rookie=y|FB|IR}}
{{NFLplayer|--|Darryl Wren|CB|PUP}} {{NFLplayer|22|Darryl Wren|CB|PUP}}


| practice_squad = | practice_squad =
{{NFLplayer|--|Sean Love|G}} {{NFLplayer|68|Sean Love|G}}
{{NFLplayer|--|Barry Rose|d=American football|rookie=y|WR}} {{NFLplayer|&nbsp;8|Matt Rodgers|rookie=y|QB}}
{{NFLplayer|87|Chris Walsh|rookie=y|d=American football|WR}} {{NFLplayer|19|Barry Rose|d=American football|rookie=y|WR}}
{{NFLplayer|18|Chris Walsh|rookie=y|d=American football|WR}}
<small>47 active, 9 inactive, 4 practice squad</small>

}} }}


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! Date ! Date
! Opponent ! Opponent
! Game Site ! Game site
! Final Score ! Final score
! Record ! Record
! Attendance ! Attendance
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|Weather= |Weather=
|Referee= Larry Nemmers |Referee= Larry Nemmers
|TVAnnouncers= |TVAnnouncers=] and ]
|TVStation= CBS |TVStation= CBS
}} }}
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Buffalo's 34–31 win over the ] was the first game in NFL history in which neither team punted. Over 1,000 yards in combined offense for both teams. Buffalo's 34–31 win over the ] was the first game in NFL history in which neither team punted. Over 1,000 yards in combined offense for both teams.
{{-}} {{Clear}}


====Week 3==== ====Week 3====
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The ] were limited to nine first downs, 140 total yards, and three interceptions (one by quarterback/punter ]) in a 38–0 Bills shutout. The ] were limited to nine first downs, 140 total yards, and three interceptions (one by quarterback/punter ]) in a 38–0 Bills shutout.
{{-}} {{Clear}}


====Week 4==== ====Week 4====
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|Location=] |Location=]
|StartTime= |StartTime=
|TimeZone= |TimeZone=ESt
|ElapsedTime= |ElapsedTime=
|Attendance= |Attendance=52,527
|Weather= |Weather=
|Referee= Tom White |Referee= Tom White
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The winless ] held off the Bills for a 6–0 Bills lead at halftime before 35 Buffalo points led to yet another Buffalo runaway win, 41–7. The winless ] held off the Bills for a 6–0 Bills lead at halftime before 35 Buffalo points led to yet another Buffalo runaway win, 41–7.
{{-}} {{Clear}}


====Week 5==== ====Week 5====
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] ended Buffalo's season-opening win streak, throwing three touchdowns and 282 total yards. ] was intercepted four times as the Dolphins won 37–10. ] ended Buffalo's season-opening win streak, throwing three touchdowns and 282 total yards. ] was intercepted four times as the Dolphins won 37–10.
{{-}} {{Clear}}


====Week 6==== ====Week 6====
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The Bills flew to Los Angeles and were rudely greeted by the 1–4 Raiders; they sacked ] five times and picked him off once, storming to a 20–3 win. The Bills flew to Los Angeles and were rudely greeted by the 1–4 Raiders; they sacked ] five times and picked him off once, storming to a 20–3 win.
{{-}} {{Clear}}


==== Week 8 ==== ==== Week 8 ====
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|ElapsedTime= |ElapsedTime=
|Attendance= |Attendance=
|Weather=46°F • Wind 19 |Weather={{convert|46|F}} • Wind {{convert|19|mph|abbr=on}}
|Referee= Bernie Kukar |Referee= Bernie Kukar
|TVAnnouncers= Al Michaels, Frank Gifford, and Dan Dierdorf |TVAnnouncers= Al Michaels, Frank Gifford, and Dan Dierdorf
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{{AFB game box end}} {{AFB game box end}}


<ref></ref> <ref>{{Cite web |title=Buffalo Bills at New York Jets - October 26th, 1992 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/199210260nyj.htm |access-date=2024-11-11 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>


The ] hosted the Bills in a back-and-forth affair. The Bills led 17–13 in the fourth before ] ran in a one-yard score, but Kelly led the Bills downfield and found ] from twelve yards out and the 24–20 Bills win. The ] hosted the Bills in a back-and-forth affair. The Bills led 17–13 in the fourth before ] ran in a one-yard score, but Kelly led the Bills downfield and found ] from twelve yards out and the 24–20 Bills win.
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|Date=November 1 |Date=November 1
|Location=Rich Stadium |Location=Rich Stadium
|StartTime= |StartTime=1:00 PM
|TimeZone=EST |TimeZone=EST
|ElapsedTime= |ElapsedTime=
|Attendance= |Attendance=78,268
|Weather= |Weather=
|Referee=] |Referee=]
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The Patriots traveled to ] and the two teams managed six turnovers and just 484 total yards. The Bills fell behind 7–0 on ]'s 25-yard fumble return score, then scored 16 unanswered points on two touchdowns and a safety when ] was downed in the endzone. The Patriots traveled to ] and the two teams managed six turnovers and just 484 total yards. The Bills fell behind 7–0 on ]'s 25-yard fumble return score, then scored 16 unanswered points on two touchdowns and a safety when ] was downed in the endzone.
{{-}} {{Clear}}


====Week 10==== ====Week 10====
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|TimeZone= |TimeZone=
|ElapsedTime= |ElapsedTime=
|Attendance= |Attendance=80,294
|Weather= |Weather=
|Referee= Bob McElwee |Referee= Bob McElwee
|TVAnnouncers= |TVAnnouncers= Marv Albert and Bill Parcells
|TVStation= NBC |TVStation= NBC
}} }}
{{AFB game box end}} {{AFB game box end}}


{{-}} {{Clear}}


====Week 11==== ====Week 11====
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{{AFB game box end}} {{AFB game box end}}


{{-}} {{Clear}}


====Week 12==== ====Week 12====
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|ElapsedTime= |ElapsedTime=
|Attendance=80,004 |Attendance=80,004
|Weather=51°F wind 15 |Weather={{convert|51|F}} wind {{convert|15|mph|abbr=on}}
|Referee=] |Referee=]
|TVAnnouncers=] and ] |TVAnnouncers=] and ]
|TVStation=] |TVStation=]
}} }}
{{AFB game box end}} {{AFB game box end}}


Buffalo set an NFL record by rushing for 315 yards in a game as the ] managed 174 yards of total offense and were hammered 41–14. Buffalo set an NFL record by rushing for 315 yards in a game as the ] managed 174 yards of total offense and were hammered 41–14.
{{-}} {{Clear}}


====Week 13==== ====Week 13====
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|Weather= |Weather=
|Referee= Larry Nemmers |Referee= Larry Nemmers
|TVAnnouncers= |TVAnnouncers= Don Criqui and Paul Maguire
|TVStation= NBC |TVStation= NBC
}} }}
{{AFB game box end}} {{AFB game box end}}


{{-}} {{Clear}}


====Week 14==== ====Week 14====
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The Bills fell to the Jets 24–17 in a game the Jets needed far more than the Bills following a paralyzing injury to ]; the Jets had needed emotional counseling all week leading to the game, and came out inspired when coach ] told players beforehand that Byrd was recovering movement. ] ran in two touchdowns; after the Bills tied the game 17–17 ] intercepted Kelly and scored. Following the 24–17 Jets win, both teams met at midfield in prayer for Dennis Byrd. The Bills fell to the Jets 24–17 in a game the Jets needed far more than the Bills following a paralyzing injury to ]; the Jets had needed emotional counseling all week leading to the game, and came out inspired when coach ] told players beforehand that Byrd was recovering movement. ] ran in two touchdowns; after the Bills tied the game 17–17 ] intercepted Kelly and scored. Following the 24–17 Jets win, both teams met at midfield in prayer for Dennis Byrd.
{{-}} {{Clear}}


====Week 15==== ====Week 15====
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}} }}
{{AFB game box end}} {{AFB game box end}}

{{-}}


The Bills scored the first 24 points, opening up on a triple lateral to Kelly who then unloaded a 64-yard score to wide open ]. The Broncos started ] with ] out for the fourth straight game, then put in Shawn Moore who threw three picks; the two combined for 250 yards passing. The Bills scored the first 24 points, opening up on a triple lateral to Kelly who then unloaded a 64-yard score to wide open ]. The Broncos started ] with ] out for the fourth straight game, then put in Shawn Moore who threw three picks; the two combined for 250 yards passing.

{{Clear}}


====Week 16==== ====Week 16====
{{AFB game box start {{AFB game box start
|Title=] (10-4) at ] (11-3) |Title=] (10–4) at ] (11–3)
|Visitor=Bills |Visitor=Bills
|V1= 3|V2=0 |V3=7 |V4=10 |V1= 3|V2=0 |V3=7 |V4=10
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|Referee=Howard Roe |Referee=Howard Roe
|TVAnnouncers=] and ] |TVAnnouncers=] and ]
|TVStation=] |TVStation=]
}} }}
{{AFB game box end}} {{AFB game box end}}


{{-}} {{Clear}}


====Week 17==== ====Week 17====
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|Weather= |Weather=
|Referee= Jerry Markbreit |Referee= Jerry Markbreit
|TVAnnouncers= |TVAnnouncers= Mike Patrick and Joe Theismann
|TVStation= ESPN |TVStation= ESPN
}} }}
{{AFB game box end}} {{AFB game box end}}


At the ] Jim Kelly was intercepted once and injured in the final game of the season, forcing ] to take over as starting quarterback to begin the playoffs. Reich was picked off twice as the Oilers behind ] and ] stormed to a 27–3 win, securing a wildcard playoff berth, where one week later they would travel to Buffalo to face Reich again. At the ] Jim Kelly was intercepted once and injured in the final game of the season, forcing ] to take over as starting quarterback to begin the playoffs. Reich was picked off twice as the Oilers behind ] and ] stormed to a 27–3 win, securing a wildcard playoff berth, where one week later they would travel to Buffalo to face Reich again.


{{-}} {{Clear}}


=== Standings === === Standings ===
{{1992 AFC East standings}} {{1992 AFC East standings}}
<ref>NFL 2001 Record and Fact Book, Workman Publishing Co, New York,NY, {{ISBN|0-7611-2480-2}}, p. 292</ref> <ref>NFL 2001 Record and Fact Book, Workman Publishing Co, New York, NY, {{ISBN|0-7611-2480-2}}, p. 292</ref>


== Playoffs == == Playoffs ==
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! Date ! Date
! Opponent ! Opponent
! Final Score ! Final score
! Attendance ! Attendance
|-align="center" bgcolor="#ddffdd" |-align="center" bgcolor="#ddffdd"
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{{AFB game box end}} {{AFB game box end}}


]'s defining moment in his pro career is actually another comeback, this one often called the ] (it is the greatest comeback in terms of point deficit, 32 points). ]'s defining moment in his pro career is actually another comeback, this one often called the ]. It was also the largest comeback in NFL history, with the Bills overcoming a 32-point deficit, until 2022, when the ] ].

In the playoffs following the 1992 season against the ]. Reich led the Bills on a 35–3 run in the second half before overtime, en route to a 41–38 victory on a ] field goal. Reich would help the Bills defeat the ] in the divisional round before once again giving the team back to Kelly, who led them into ], where they were annihilated by the ] 52–17. Reich had to enter the game when starter ] was forced out of the game with a knee injury during the 2nd quarter. In the playoffs following the 1992 season against the ]. Reich led the Bills on a 35–3 run in the second half before overtime, en route to a 41–38 victory on a ] field goal. Reich would help the Bills defeat the ] in the divisional round before once again giving the team back to Kelly, who led them into ], where they were annihilated by the ] 52–17. Reich had to enter the game when starter ] was forced out of the game with a knee injury during the 2nd quarter.


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*BUF – FG Christie 32-yards ''41–38 BUF'' *BUF – FG Christie 32-yards ''41–38 BUF''


{{-}} {{Clear}}


===Divisional=== ===Divisional===
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|ElapsedTime= |ElapsedTime=
|Attendance=60,407 |Attendance=60,407
|Weather={{Convert|31|F|C}} • {{Convert|14|mph|km/h knot}} ; wind chill 21 |Weather={{Convert|31|F|C}} • {{Convert|14|mph|km/h knot}}; wind chill 21
|Referee=] |Referee=]
|TVAnnouncers=] , ] ; ] and ] (sidelines). ], ], and ] in studio/halftime. |TVAnnouncers=], ]; ] and ] (sidelines). ], ], and ] in studio/halftime.
|TVStation=] |TVStation=]
}} }}
{{AFB game box end}} {{AFB game box end}}


{{-}} {{Clear}}


===Conference Championship=== ===Conference Championship===
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{{AFB game box end}} {{AFB game box end}}


{{-}} {{Clear}}


=== Super Bowl === === Super Bowl ===
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However, the Bills quest for a third consecutive Super Bowl suffered a major setback when they lost the final game of the season to the ]. The loss caused the Bills to finish with an 11–5 record, losing the ] title to the ] based on tiebreaking rules, and thus making them a ] team for the playoffs. Thus, even if they won their first playoff game, they would have to win two on the road to make the Super Bowl. To make matters worse, Kelly also suffered strained knee ligaments during the loss to the Oilers and had to miss the first 2 playoff games. Furthermore, their first opponent in the playoffs ended up being the Oilers. A headline on a Buffalo newspaper stated the Bills situation: "Bills Begin The Longest Road Today." However, the Bills quest for a third consecutive Super Bowl suffered a major setback when they lost the final game of the season to the ]. The loss caused the Bills to finish with an 11–5 record, losing the ] title to the ] based on tiebreaking rules, and thus making them a ] team for the playoffs. Thus, even if they won their first playoff game, they would have to win two on the road to make the Super Bowl. To make matters worse, Kelly also suffered strained knee ligaments during the loss to the Oilers and had to miss the first 2 playoff games. Furthermore, their first opponent in the playoffs ended up being the Oilers. A headline on a Buffalo newspaper stated the Bills situation: "Bills Begin The Longest Road Today."


{{-}} {{Clear}}


==== Starting lineups ==== ==== Starting lineups ====

Latest revision as of 20:06, 5 January 2025

33rd season in franchise history, third straight Super Bowl appearance and loss

1992 Buffalo Bills season
OwnerRalph Wilson
General managerBill Polian
Head coachMarv Levy
Home fieldRich Stadium
Results
Record11–5
Division place2nd AFC East
Playoff finishWon Wild Card Playoffs
(vs. Oilers) 41–38 (OT)
Won Divisional Playoffs
(at Steelers) 24–3
Won AFC Championship
(at Dolphins) 29–10
Lost Super Bowl XXVII
(vs. Cowboys) 17–52
Pro Bowlers 10
All-Pros 4

The 1992 Buffalo Bills season was the 33rd season for the team in the National Football League (NFL). The Buffalo Bills entered the season as defending back to back AFC champions and finished the National Football League's 1992 season with a record of 11 wins and 5 losses, and finished second in the AFC East division. The Bills qualified for their third straight Super Bowl appearance, but were dealt their third loss in as many appearances, this time falling to the Dallas Cowboys by a score of 52–17. This would be the only time the Bills did not finish first in the AFC Eastern Division from 1988 to 1993.

Season summary

The season is notable for Buffalo's first playoff game in this year, known as "The Comeback", in which the Bills, down 35–3, ended up winning in overtime 41-38. The game was the first of three Buffalo playoff wins (the two others were at Pittsburgh and at Miami) that allowed the Bills to win their third consecutive AFC Championship. In Super Bowl XXVII, Dallas beat Buffalo, 52–17.

In Week Two of the season, the Bills traveled to San Francisco, defeating the 49ers 34–31. The matchup was notable for being the first game in NFL history without a punt by either team.

Offseason

Additions Subtractions
DE Keith Willis (Steelers) LB Ray Bentley (Bengals)
RB Kenny Gamble (Chiefs) K Scott Norwood (retirement)
G Joe Staysniak (Chiefs)
TE Butch Rolle (Cardinals)
DE Leon Seals (Eagles)

NFL Draft

Main article: 1992 NFL draft
1992 Buffalo Bills draft
Round Pick Player Position College Notes
1 27 John Fina  Offensive tackle Arizona
3 83 Keith Goganious  Linebacker Penn State
4 111 Frank Kmet  Defensive end Purdue
5 139 Matt Darby  Safety UCLA
6 167 Nate Turner  Running back Nebraska
7 195 Kurt Schulz  Safety Eastern Washington
8 223 Leonard Humphries  Cornerback Penn State
9 251 Chris Walsh  Wide receiver Stanford
10 279 Barry Rose  Wide receiver Wisconsin–Stevens Point
11 307 Vince Marrow  Tight end Toledo
12 335 Matt Rodgers  Quarterback Iowa
      Made roster  

Undrafted free agents

1992 Undrafted Free Agents of note
Player Position College
Jason Childs Tackle North Dakota
Jim Crouch Kicker Sacramento State
Doug Helkowski Punter Penn State

Personnel

Staff

1992 Buffalo Bills staff

Front office

Head coaches

  • Head coach – Marv Levy
  • Assistant head coach/running backs – Elijah Pitts
  • Administrative assistant to the head coach/Defensive Quality Control – Chuck Lester

Offensive coaches

Defensive coaches
  • Defensive coordinator/linebackers – Walt Corey
  • Defensive line – Dan Sekanovich
  • Defensive backs – Dick Roach

Special teams coaches

Strength and conditioning


Roster

1992 Buffalo Bills roster
Quarterbacks (QB)

Running backs (RB)

Wide receivers (WR)

Tight ends (TE)

Offensive linemen (OL)

Defensive linemen (DL)

Linebackers (LB)

Defensive backs (DB)

Special teams

Practice squad

47 active, 9 inactive, 4 practice squad Reserve


Rookies in italics

Schedule

Week Date Opponent Game site Final score Record Attendance
1 September 6, 1992 Los Angeles Rams Rich Stadium W 40–7 1–0 79,001
2 September 13, 1992 at San Francisco 49ers Candlestick Park W 34–31 2–0 64,053
3 September 20, 1992 Indianapolis Colts Rich Stadium W 38–0 3–0 77,781
4 September 27, 1992 at New England Patriots Foxboro Stadium W 41–7 4–0 52,527
5 October 4, 1992 Miami Dolphins Rich Stadium L 37–10 4–1 80,368
6 October 11, 1992 at Los Angeles Raiders Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum L 20–3 4–2 52,287
7 Bye
8 October 26, 1992 at New York Jets The Meadowlands W 24–20 5–2 68,181
9 November 1, 1992 New England Patriots Rich Stadium W 16–7 6–2 78,268
10 November 8, 1992 Pittsburgh Steelers Rich Stadium W 28–20 7–2 80,294
11 November 16, 1992 at Miami Dolphins Joe Robbie Stadium W 26–20 8–2 70,629
12 November 22, 1992 Atlanta Falcons Rich Stadium W 41–14 9–2 80,004
13 November 29, 1992 at Indianapolis Colts Hoosier Dome L 16–13 (OT) 9–3 50,221
14 December 6, 1992 New York Jets Rich Stadium L 24–17 9–4 75,876
15 December 12, 1992 Denver Broncos Rich Stadium W 27–17 10–4 71,740
16 December 20, 1992 at New Orleans Saints Louisiana Superdome W 20–16 11–4 68,591
17 December 27, 1992 at Houston Oilers Houston Astrodome L 27–3 11–5 61,742

Game summaries

Week 1

Los Angeles Rams at Buffalo Bills
1 234Total
Rams 0 700 7
• Bills 14 1376 40
Scoring summary
1BillsThurman Thomas 10 yard pass from Jim Kelly (Steve Christie kick)Bills 7–0
1BillsThurman Thomas 1 yard run (Steve Christie kick)Bills 14–0
2BillsThurman Thomas 6 yard run (Steve Christie kick)Bills 21–0
2RamsRobert Delpino 12 yard pass from Jim Everett (Tony Zendejas kick)Bills 21–7
2BillsMitch Frerotte 2 yard pass from Jim Kelly (kick failed)Bills 27–7
3BillsThurman Thomas 10 yard run (Steve Christie kick)Bills 34–7
4BillsSteve Christie 49 yard field goalBills 37–7
4BillsSteve Christie 38 yard field goalBills 40–7

Hosting the L.A. Rams, the Bills picked off Jim Everett four times and limited the Rams to 215 total yards. Thurman Thomas led a 207-yard rushing attack for the Bills as Jim Kelly needed only 106 passing yards and two scores for the 40–7 win.

Week 2

Further information: No Punt Game
1 234Total
• Bills 3 10147 34
49ers 7 1770 31
  • Date: September 13
  • Location: Candlestick Park
  • Game start: 1:00 p.m. PST
  • Referee: Red Cashion
  • TV announcers (NBC): Dick Enberg and Bob Trumpy

Buffalo's 34–31 win over the San Francisco 49ers was the first game in NFL history in which neither team punted. Over 1,000 yards in combined offense for both teams.

Week 3

1 234Total
Colts 0 000 0
• Bills 7 31414 38
  • Date: September 20
  • Location: Rich Stadium

The Indianapolis Colts were limited to nine first downs, 140 total yards, and three interceptions (one by quarterback/punter Tom Tupa) in a 38–0 Bills shutout.

Week 4

1 234Total
• Bills 3 32114 41
Patriots 0 007 7

The winless Patriots held off the Bills for a 6–0 Bills lead at halftime before 35 Buffalo points led to yet another Buffalo runaway win, 41–7.

Week 5

1 234Total
• Dolphins 3 14173 37
Bills 3 700 10
  • Date: October 4
  • Location: Rich Stadium
  • Game start: 1:00 p.m. EST
  • Referee: Dale Hamer
  • TV announcers (NBC): Dick Enberg and Bob Trumpy

Dan Marino ended Buffalo's season-opening win streak, throwing three touchdowns and 282 total yards. Jim Kelly was intercepted four times as the Dolphins won 37–10.

Week 6

1 234Total
Bills 0 300 3
• Raiders 7 1030 20

The Bills flew to Los Angeles and were rudely greeted by the 1–4 Raiders; they sacked Jim Kelly five times and picked him off once, storming to a 20–3 win.

Week 8

1 234Total
• Bills 0 1437 24
Jets 3 377 20
  • Date: October 26
  • Location: Giants Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey
  • Game start: 9:00 p.m. EST
  • Game weather: 46 °F (8 °C) • Wind 19 mph (31 km/h)
  • Referee: Bernie Kukar
  • TV announcers (ABC): Al Michaels, Frank Gifford, and Dan Dierdorf
Scoring summary
1NYJCary Blanchard 42 yard field goalJets 3–0
2BUFKenneth Davis 2 yard run (Steve Christie kick)Bills 7–3
2NYJCary Blanchard 40 yard field goalBills 7–6
2BUFJames Lofton 16 yard pass from Jim Kelly (Steve Christie kick)Bills 14–6
3NYJPat Chaffey 1 yard run (Cary Blanchard kick)Bills 14–13
3BUFSteve Christie 33 yard field goalBills 17–13
4NYJBrad Baxter 1 yard run (Cary Blanchard kick)Jets 20–17
4BUFThurman Thomas 12 yard pass from Jim Kelly (Steve Christie kick)Bills 24–20

The Jets hosted the Bills in a back-and-forth affair. The Bills led 17–13 in the fourth before Brad Baxter ran in a one-yard score, but Kelly led the Bills downfield and found Thurman Thomas from twelve yards out and the 24–20 Bills win.

Week 9

1 234Total
Patriots 0 700 7
• Bills 0 097 16

The Patriots traveled to Rich Stadium and the two teams managed six turnovers and just 484 total yards. The Bills fell behind 7–0 on Vincent Brown's 25-yard fumble return score, then scored 16 unanswered points on two touchdowns and a safety when Shawn McCarthy was downed in the endzone.

Week 10

1 234Total
Steelers 0 6140 20
• Bills 7 1470 28
  • Date: November 8
  • Location: Rich Stadium
  • Game attendance: 80,294
  • Referee: Bob McElwee
  • TV announcers (NBC): Marv Albert and Bill Parcells

Week 11

1 234Total
• Bills 3 10130 26
Dolphins 7 1003 20
  • Date: November 16
  • Location: Joe Robbie Stadium
  • Game start: 9:00 p.m. EST
  • Referee: Tom White
  • TV announcers (ABC): Al Michaels, Frank Gifford, and Dan Dierdorf

Week 12

1 234Total
Falcons 0 707 14
• Bills 28 1003 41
  • Date: November 22
  • Location: Rich Stadium
  • Game start: 1pm EST
  • Game attendance: 80,004
  • Game weather: 51 °F (11 °C) wind 15 mph (24 km/h)
  • Referee: Johnny Grier
  • TV announcers (CBS): Tim Ryan and Matt Millen

Buffalo set an NFL record by rushing for 315 yards in a game as the Atlanta Falcons managed 174 yards of total offense and were hammered 41–14.

Week 13

1 234OTTotal
Bills 0 3730 13
• Colts 0 30103 16
  • Date: November 29
  • Location: Hoosier Dome
  • Referee: Larry Nemmers
  • TV announcers (NBC): Don Criqui and Paul Maguire

Week 14

1 234Total
• Jets 3 0147 24
Bills 3 707 17
  • Date: December 6
  • Location: Rich Stadium
  • Game start: 1:00 p.m. EST
  • Referee: Dick Hantak
  • TV announcers (NBC): Marv Albert, Bill Parcells

The Bills fell to the Jets 24–17 in a game the Jets needed far more than the Bills following a paralyzing injury to Dennis Byrd; the Jets had needed emotional counseling all week leading to the game, and came out inspired when coach Bruce Coslet told players beforehand that Byrd was recovering movement. Brad Baxter ran in two touchdowns; after the Bills tied the game 17–17 Brian Washington intercepted Kelly and scored. Following the 24–17 Jets win, both teams met at midfield in prayer for Dennis Byrd.

Week 15

1 234Total
Broncos 0 0710 17
• Bills 0 2133 27
  • Date: December 12
  • Location: Rich Stadium
  • Game start: 1:00 p.m. EST
  • Referee: Gary Lane
  • TV announcers (NBC): Dick Enberg and Bob Trumpy

The Bills scored the first 24 points, opening up on a triple lateral to Kelly who then unloaded a 64-yard score to wide open Don Beebe. The Broncos started Tommy Maddox with John Elway out for the fourth straight game, then put in Shawn Moore who threw three picks; the two combined for 250 yards passing.

Week 16

Buffalo Bills (10–4) at New Orleans Saints (11–3)
1 234Total
• Bills 3 0710 20
Saints 6 730 16

Week 17

1 234Total
Bills 3 000 3
• Oilers 10 1007 27
  • Date: December 27
  • Location: Houston Astrodome
  • Referee: Jerry Markbreit
  • TV announcers (ESPN): Mike Patrick and Joe Theismann

At the Astrodome Jim Kelly was intercepted once and injured in the final game of the season, forcing Frank Reich to take over as starting quarterback to begin the playoffs. Reich was picked off twice as the Oilers behind Warren Moon and Cody Carlson stormed to a 27–3 win, securing a wildcard playoff berth, where one week later they would travel to Buffalo to face Reich again.

Standings

AFC East
W L T PCT DIV CONF PF PA STK
Miami Dolphins 11 5 0 .688 5–3 9–3 340 281 W3
Buffalo Bills 11 5 0 .688 5–3 7–5 381 283 L1
Indianapolis Colts 9 7 0 .563 5–3 7–7 216 302 W5
New York Jets 4 12 0 .250 3–5 4–8 220 315 L3
New England Patriots 2 14 0 .125 2–6 2–10 205 363 L5

Playoffs

Week Date Opponent Final score Attendance
Wildcard January 3, 1993 Houston Oilers (5) W 41–38 (OT) 75,141
Divisional January 9, 1993 at Pittsburgh Steelers (1) W 24–3 60,407
Conference Championship January 17, 1993 at Miami Dolphins (2) W 29–10 72,703
Super Bowl January 31, 1993 vs. Dallas Cowboys (N2) L 17–52 98,374

Wild Card

1 234OTTotal
Oilers 7 21730 38
• Bills 3 02873 41
  • Date: January 3
  • Location: Rich Stadium
  • Game weather: Cloudy
  • Referee: Gerald Austin
  • TV announcers (NBC): Charlie Jones and Todd Christensen

Frank Reich's defining moment in his pro career is actually another comeback, this one often called the greatest comeback in NFL playoff history. It was also the largest comeback in NFL history, with the Bills overcoming a 32-point deficit, until 2022, when the Minnesota Vikings overcame a 33-point deficit against the Indianapolis Colts. In the playoffs following the 1992 season against the Houston Oilers. Reich led the Bills on a 35–3 run in the second half before overtime, en route to a 41–38 victory on a Steve Christie field goal. Reich would help the Bills defeat the Pittsburgh Steelers in the divisional round before once again giving the team back to Kelly, who led them into Super Bowl XXVII, where they were annihilated by the Dallas Cowboys 52–17. Reich had to enter the game when starter Jim Kelly was forced out of the game with a knee injury during the 2nd quarter.

  • HOU – Jeffires 3-yard pass from Moon (Del Greco kick) 7–0 HOU
  • BUF – FG Christie 36-yards 7–3 HOU
  • HOU – Slaughter 7-yard pass from Moon (Del Greco kick) 14–3 HOU
  • HOU – Duncan 26-yard pass from Moon (Del Greco kick) 21–3 HOU
  • HOU – Jeffires 27-yard pass from Moon (Del Greco kick) 28–3 HOU
  • HOU – McDowell 58-yard interception return (Del Greco kick) 35–3 HOU
  • BUF – K. Davis 1-yard run (Christie kick) 35–10 HOU
  • BUF – Beebe 38-yard pass from Reich (Christie kick) 35–17 HOU
  • BUF – Reed 26-yard pass from Reich (Christie kick) 35–24 HOU
  • BUF – Reed 18-yard pass from Reich (Christie kick) 35–31 HOU
  • BUF – Reed 17-yard pass from Reich (Christie kick) 38–35 BUF
  • HOU – FG Del Greco 26-yards 38–38 tie
  • BUF – FG Christie 32-yards 41–38 BUF

Divisional

1 234Total
• Bills 0 7710 24
Steelers 3 000 3

Conference Championship

1 234Total
• Bills 3 10106 29
Dolphins 3 007 10

Super Bowl

Main article: Super Bowl XXVII
1 234Total
Bills 7 370 17
• Cowboys 14 14321 52
  • Date: January 31
  • Location: Rose Bowl
  • Game weather: Sunny
  • Referee: Dick Hantak
  • TV announcers (NBC): Dick Enberg and Bob Trumpy

The Bills entered Super Bowl XXVII trying to avoid becoming the first team to lose three consecutive Super Bowls. Once again the team was loaded with talent, boasting 12 Pro Bowl selections. During the regular season, Buffalo's no-huddle offense ranked as the number two offense in the league (6,114 yards) and ranked as the number one rushing offense (2,436). Running back Thurman Thomas rushed for 1,487 yards and 9 touchdowns during the regular season, while also catching 58 passes for 626 yards and another 3 touchdowns. Running back Kenneth Davis rushed for 613 yards, caught 15 passes for 80 yards, and added another 251 yards returning kickoffs. Quarterback Jim Kelly had 269 out of 462 completions for 3,457 yards, 23 touchdowns, and 19 interceptions. Wide receiver Andre Reed lead the team with 65 receptions for 913 yards and 3 touchdowns, receiver James Lofton contributed 51 receptions for 786 yards and 6 touchdowns, and wide receiver Don Beebe had 33 receptions for 554 and 2 touchdowns. Also tight end Pete Metzelaars recorded 30 receptions for 298 yards and 6 touchdowns. The Bills also had one of the best offensive lines in the NFL, led by Pro Bowlers Will Wolford, Jim Ritcher, and Howard Ballard, along with center Kent Hull.

On defense, the line was anchored by tackles Bruce Smith (14 sacks) and Jeff Wright (6 sacks, 1 fumble recovery), who were fully recovered after missing almost all of the previous season due to injuries. The Bills were once again led by their trio of linebackers Darryl Talley (77 tackles, 4 sacks), Shane Conlan (66 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 interception), and Pro Bowler Cornelius Bennett (52 tackles, 4 sacks, 3 fumble recoveries). The defensive secondary was aided by the emergence of second year defensive back Henry Jones, who led the NFL with 8 interceptions, returning them for 263 yards and 2 touchdowns. Defensive back Mark Kelso recorded 7 interceptions, while Pro Bowl defensive back Nate Odomes had 5.

However, the Bills quest for a third consecutive Super Bowl suffered a major setback when they lost the final game of the season to the Houston Oilers. The loss caused the Bills to finish with an 11–5 record, losing the AFC East title to the Miami Dolphins based on tiebreaking rules, and thus making them a wild card team for the playoffs. Thus, even if they won their first playoff game, they would have to win two on the road to make the Super Bowl. To make matters worse, Kelly also suffered strained knee ligaments during the loss to the Oilers and had to miss the first 2 playoff games. Furthermore, their first opponent in the playoffs ended up being the Oilers. A headline on a Buffalo newspaper stated the Bills situation: "Bills Begin The Longest Road Today."

Starting lineups

Source:

Position Name
WR James Lofton
LT Will Wolford
LG Jim Ritcher
C Kent Hull
RG Glenn Parker
RT Howard Ballard
TE Pete Metzelaars
WR Andre Reed
QB Jim Kelly
RB Thurman Thomas
FB-WR Don Beebe
Position Name
LE Phil Hansen
LDT-NT Jeff Wright
RDT-RE Bruce Smith
RE-LOLB Marvcus Patton
LOLB-LILB Shane Conlan
MLB-RILB Cornelius Bennett
ROLB Darryl Talley
LCB James Williams
RCB Nate Odomes
SS Henry Jones
FS Mark Kelso

Scoring Summary

  • BUF – TD: Thurman Thomas 2-yard run (Steve Christie kick) 7–0 BUF
  • DAL – TD: Jay Novacek 23-yard pass from Troy Aikman (Lin Elliott kick) 7–7 tie
  • DAL – TD: Jimmie Jones 2-yard fumble return (Lin Elliott kick) 14–7 DAL
  • BUF – FG: Steve Christie 21 yards 14–10 DAL
  • DAL – TD: Michael Irvin 19-yard pass from Troy Aikman (Lin Elliott kick) 21–10 DAL
  • DAL – TD: Michael Irvin 18-yard pass from Troy Aikman (Lin Elliott kick) 28–10 DAL
  • DAL – FG: Lin Elliott 20 yards 31–10 DAL
  • BUF – TD: Don Beebe 40-yard pass from Frank Reich (Steve Christie kick) 31–17 DAL
  • DAL – TD: Alvin Harper 45-yard pass from Troy Aikman (Lin Elliott kick) 38–17 DAL
  • DAL – TD: Emmitt Smith 10-yard run (Lin Elliott kick) 45–17 DAL
  • DAL – TD: Ken Norton Jr. 9-yard fumble return (Lin Elliott kick) 52–17 DAL

Awards and records

  • Fewest Rushing Yards allowed in NFL, 1395 yards
  • Led NFL in Total Yards Rushing, 2436 yards
  • Led AFC in Points Scored, 381
  • Led AFC in Yards Gained, 5893
  • Set NFL record for most rushing yards by a club in one game (315)
  • Steve Christie, Tied NFL record, Most Field Goals Attempted in a Playoff Game (6)
  • Steve Christie, Tied NFL record, Most Field Goals Made in a Playoff Game (5)
  • Henry Jones, Tied NFL Lead, 8 Interceptions
  • Steve Tasker, Pro Bowl MVP
  • Thurman Thomas, AFC Leader, 12 Touchdowns

References

  1. Bills at 49ers (original broadcast) at YouTube: | Parts 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 10 | 11 | 12
  2. 1992 Buffalo Bills Media Guide. pp. 2–23.
  3. "Buffalo Bills at New York Jets - October 26th, 1992". Pro-Football-Reference.com. Retrieved November 11, 2024.
  4. NFL 2001 Record and Fact Book, Workman Publishing Co, New York, NY, ISBN 0-7611-2480-2, p. 292
  5. Neft, David S., Cohen, Richard M., and Korch, Rick. The Complete History of Professional Football from 1892 to the Present. 1994 ISBN 0-312-11435-4

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