Trevor Lawrence’s Playoff Dream Ends as Jaguars Fall to Bills in Wild Card Round

Jaguars’ Season Ends in Heartbreaking Playoff Defeat

The Buffalo Bills outlasted the Jacksonville Jaguars 27–24 in the first round of the NFL playoffs, bringing a dramatic end to what had been one of the franchise’s most successful regular seasons. The Jaguars finished with a 13-win regular season campaign, but their playoff hopes were dashed by Josh Allen’s first road playoff victory of his career.

Lawrence’s Strong Season Marred by Costly Mistakes

Despite carrying the team through much of the year, Trevor Lawrence looked little like the AFC player of the month for December and January during the crucial playoff contest. Lawrence threw two interceptions, including one on the final possession, and turned the ball over on downs early in the second quarter. The quarterback acknowledged his struggles, stating that “In any playoff game, mistakes are always magnified” and “I got to be better, cleaner there.”

During the recently completed 2025 season, Lawrence established a new career-high with 38 touchdown throws and also posted his third 4,000-yard passing season. Lawrence had 18 passing touchdowns and four rushing touchdowns over his last seven games, ranking as the highest-scoring fantasy quarterback during that span.

Late Rally Falls Short Against Bills

Lawrence found a rhythm in the fourth quarter and put Jacksonville ahead twice, connecting with Parker Washington and Travis Etienne for scores, putting the Jags up 17-13 and 24-20. He became the third quarterback in NFL history to deliver multiple go-ahead TD passes in the fourth quarter of a playoff loss. However, his heroics weren’t enough, as Josh Allen led Buffalo back for the winning score.

Looking Ahead with Optimism

Despite the disappointing end, Lawrence expressed confidence, saying “I have so much confidence in this group and the staff and the direction we’re heading” under first-year head coach Liam Cohen. Cohen led the team to 13 wins in his inaugural season on the job, providing hope that Jacksonville can build on this year’s success and return stronger in 2026.