Bills Head Coach McDermott Discusses Impact of 2025 Schedule on Team and Family Life
The NFL’s 2025 schedule was released on Wednesday night, and Buffalo Bills fans quickly began focusing on their team’s high-profile Week 1 matchup against the Baltimore Ravens in Sunday Night Football. However, for head coach Sean McDermott, the schedule is more than just about opponents—it’s about managing his team’s routine. Speaking on It’s Always Gameday in Buffalo, McDermott explained that he prioritizes how the team’s schedule will affect the players’ recovery and preparation rather than focusing solely on the opponents.
McDermott emphasized that the Bills’ popularity comes with challenges, particularly regarding primetime games. He pointed out that the team plays several “odd” game times throughout the season, which may make it harder for players and coaches to maintain consistent schedules. “It’s hard on the players, hard on their families, and hard on the coaches, particularly with the preparation we put in,” McDermott noted. He also acknowledged the importance of embracing these challenges, as the team’s visibility is a positive for the fans.
Looking ahead, the Bills have five primetime games on their 2025 slate, including Thursday Night Football matchups in Week 3 against the Miami Dolphins and Week 12 against the Houston Texans. McDermott explained that these games require adjustments in preparation, with special focus on longer rest periods that allow for recovery and planning for upcoming short-week games.
Despite the difficult schedule, the Bills’ strength of schedule is currently ranked as the ninth easiest in the league, according to Fox Sports. With a promising offseason and favorable matchups, the team is hopeful they can build on their successful 13-4 campaign from 2024 and make a run toward their first Super Bowl appearance since 1993.
With high expectations from fans, McDermott and the team’s coaching staff will need to navigate the challenging demands of the schedule while maintaining focus on the ultimate goal: a championship. Fans will be watching closely, eager to see how the Bills handle the unique challenges of the 2025 season.
