The buffalo bills haven t made the playoffs since bill clinton was president

The Buffalo Bills: A Playoff Drought Since the Clinton Era

Since the year 2000, the Buffalo Bills have been characterized by one recurring theme: a merciless playoff drought. It has been a staggering length of time, so much so that the last time the Bills made the playoffs, Bill Clinton was serving his second term as the President of the United States.

The Playoff Drought Begins

The year was 1999, and the Buffalo Bills last tasted the sweetness of playoff success. Led by head coach Wade Phillips and quarterback Doug Flutie, the Bills clinched a wild card spot, only to be eliminated in the first round by a loss to the Tennessee Titans in what is now known famously as the “Music City Miracle.”

Despite narrowly missing out on progressing further in the playoffs, little did they know that it would mark the beginning of a playoff drought that would extend for more than two decades.

New Millennium, Same Playoff Struggles

As the 2000s rolled in, the Buffalo Bills found themselves trapped in a frustrating cycle of ineffective seasons. Coaches came and went, quarterbacks shuffled in and out, yet the coveted playoff spot remained elusive.

During this period, the Bills had some notable players who left their mark on the franchise, including the likes of Eric Moulds, Lee Evans, and Marshawn Lynch. However, their individual brilliance was not enough to lift the team out of the perpetual postseason darkness.

Enduring New Challenges

Throughout the 2010s, the Bills faced various challenges on their quest to break free from the curse of the playoffs. Ownership changes, shifting coaching staff, and quarterback instability tested the team’s resilience.

Nonetheless, the Bills continued to rally their loyal fan base, elevating the atmosphere at New Era Field (now named Highmark Stadium) with passionate support in hopes of witnessing the end of the dreaded playoff drought.

Sean McDermott and the Return to Relevance

In 2017, a glimmer of hope emerged when the Bills hired head coach Sean McDermott, known for his defensive prowess and strategic approach to the game. Under his guidance, the team began to show signs of potential and determination.

The 2017 season brought forth an unexpected accomplishment as the Bills managed to secure a wild card playoff spot. Despite a loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars in the first round, the playoff berth temporarily lifted the crushing burden of the two-decade-long drought.

Continued Efforts Toward a Breakthrough

Since their brief return to the playoffs in 2017, the Bills have remained a competitive force in the NFL. Led by star quarterback Josh Allen and an impressive supporting cast, they have come tantalizingly close to breaking the curse annually.

The 2020 season marked a significant turning point for the team. Under the leadership of McDermott and Allen’s stellar performances, the Buffalo Bills clinched the AFC East division title, securing a playoff spot once again. This much-needed victory brought renewed hope to the franchise and its loyal supporters.

Conclusion

As the Buffalo Bills continue to compete in their eternal quest for a Super Bowl appearance, the fact remains that their playoff drought extends back to a time when Bill Clinton resided in the White House. Despite occasional glimpses of hope, the loyal fans eagerly anticipate the day when the Bills will rise above the challenges and reclaim their position in the playoffs.

Source: For The Win - USA Today