McDermott and Bills prepare for playoffs as they host Jets

Bills coach Sean McDermott is weighing who to play or rest in Buffalo's season finale against the New York Jets while planning to honor 53-year-old Highmark Stadium; Buffalo enters the game 11-5 as the AFC's No. 7 seed and will open the playoffs on the road.

Sean McDermott is balancing playoff preparation with a final send-off for Highmark Stadium as Buffalo (11-5) closes its regular season against the New York Jets (3-13). He plans to take time to appreciate the 53-year-old venue one last time while deciding who to play or rest ahead of the playoffs. The Bills enter the game as the AFC's No. 7 seed and cannot rise higher than No. 5, meaning they will open the postseason on the road. McDermott said he will be cautious with injured players but also wants the team to compete and give the stadium a proper finale. Key facts: - Buffalo is 11-5 and the AFC's No. 7 seed, meaning the team will begin the playoffs on the road. - Sean McDermott plans to cherish Highmark Stadium in what could be its last game before the Bills move to a new stadium next season. - Quarterback Josh Allen, managing a sore right foot, is expected to start and extend his consecutive-start streak to 135 games, the NFL's longest active run. - Running back James Cook leads the NFL rushing race by 47 yards and could become Buffalo's first rushing champion since 1976 if totals hold. - The New York Jets have a 15-year playoff drought and enter having been outscored 153-46 in their past four games. - The Jets have 16 consecutive games without an interception; undrafted rookie Brady Cook is set for his fourth straight start to end the season. Summary: McDermott's choices will shape how Buffalo finishes the regular season and begins its playoff week while players and fans mark the possible final game at Highmark Stadium. The immediate next step is the season finale against the Jets on Sunday, with postseason seeding and playoff travel determined by the Bills' standing.