During a press conference in Baltimore last week, a comment made by radio host Jerry Coleman caught the attention of Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott. Coleman, while speaking with Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, remarked that Bills fans harbor animosity toward him because he once referred to Buffalo as a “city of losers.” This statement went largely unchallenged, with Harbaugh not responding, as others in the room chuckled at the remark. However, McDermott, speaking to reporters after the Bills’ 27-25 victory over the Ravens on Sunday, was asked if the comment had provided any additional motivation for his team.
McDermott responded passionately, asserting, “Yeah, now it’s a city of winners.” He went on to emphasize the pride he feels for the Buffalo community, saying, “It really is. These people in this town are winners. I’ve been here just eight years, but I consider this my hometown. This place is different and the people here are different, and they deserve more than whoever said that about them.”
The comment clearly resonated with McDermott, who has developed a deep connection to the city of Buffalo and its passionate fanbase. Despite only having spent eight years in Buffalo, McDermott has come to regard it as home, and he expressed his belief that the city’s residents are hardworking, dedicated, and deserving of greater respect than what was suggested in the comment.
As the Bills continue their pursuit of a Super Bowl title, with just two more victories standing between them and the franchise’s first-ever championship, McDermott’s words serve as a rallying cry not only for the team but for the entire city of Buffalo. While a Super Bowl victory would certainly cement the Bills’ status as champions, it may also force detractors from other cities to reconsider their opinions and find new narratives to focus on. McDermott’s response reflects his pride in the city’s resilience and ambition, illustrating the significant bond between the team and its supporters.
Buffalo has long been a city with a deep passion for its sports teams, and a Super Bowl win would not only bring unprecedented success to the Bills franchise but also shift the narrative surrounding the city from one of underachievement to one of triumph. Even if jabs from other cities continue, McDermott’s comments make it clear that Buffalo’s identity is no longer tied to past disappointments—it is now a city on the rise, ready to take on the future with pride and determination.
