NFL scores from Thursday night feature a statement win for the Buffalo Bills, who defeated the Detroit Lions 41-31 in the first regular-season game at Highmark Stadium.
Buffalo improved to 2-0, while Detroit fell to 1-1 after being unable to recover from a slow start. The Bills led 14-0 after the opening quarter and carried a 27-10 advantage into halftime, according to the NFL game centre.
Table of Contents
Bills 41, Lions 31
| Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Final |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit Lions | 0 | 10 | 7 | 14 | 31 |
| Buffalo Bills | 14 | 13 | 7 | 7 | 41 |
Josh Allen accounted for five Buffalo touchdowns, throwing three touchdown passes and running for two more scores. The Bills quarterback completed 20 of 31 passes for 248 yards and added 69 rushing yards, according to the Detroit Lions’ game recap.
Allen’s performance helped Buffalo score touchdowns on its first three possessions and build a lead that Detroit could not erase. The Lions narrowed the gap during the second half, but the Bills maintained control through the final quarter.
How the Lions responded
Jared Goff completed 26 of 38 passes for 327 yards and four touchdowns without an interception. Amon-Ra St. Brown was one of Detroit’s leading offensive contributors, finishing with nine catches for 142 yards and two touchdowns.
Detroit’s offence produced 355 total yards, including 327 passing yards, but the Lions struggled to contain Buffalo early. The Bills finished with 446 total yards, including 203 on the ground, and recorded 34 first downs.
The Lions briefly cut into Buffalo’s advantage after falling behind 21-0, but the early deficit proved decisive. Detroit’s next scheduled game is against the New York Jets on Sunday, Sept. 27.
Highmark Stadium opens with a win
The game marked the Bills’ first regular-season contest at Highmark Stadium. Buffalo’s new home opened its competitive history with a prime-time victory and a high-scoring performance from Allen.
The Bills next face the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday, Sept. 27, while the Lions return to action against the Jets. The remaining Week 2 games begin Sunday, Sept. 20, with a full slate scheduled across the afternoon and evening.
What the NFL scores mean for Week 2
Buffalo’s result gives the Bills a 2-0 record and early momentum in the AFC East. Detroit leaves the game at .500 after producing enough offence to remain competitive but giving up 27 first-half points.
There are no NFL games scheduled for Friday, Sept. 18. The next games are set for Sunday, when 14 teams are scheduled to play before the New York Giants visit the Los Angeles Rams on Monday night.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the NFL score between the Bills and Lions?
The Buffalo Bills defeated the Detroit Lions 41-31 on Thursday, Sept. 17, 2026.
What is Buffalo’s record after the win?
The Bills improved to 2-0 in the 2026 regular season.
What is Detroit’s record after the loss?
The Lions dropped to 1-1.
How many touchdowns did Josh Allen score?
Allen accounted for five touchdowns, with three passing touchdowns and two rushing touchdowns.
When do the Bills and Lions play next?
Buffalo is scheduled to host the Los Angeles Chargers on Sept. 27, while Detroit is scheduled to visit the New York Jets that day.
Fact-Checked: The final score, team records, player statistics and upcoming schedules were checked against official NFL, Buffalo Bills and Detroit Lions information.
Disclaimer: Schedules and statistics can be updated by the NFL after publication if an official correction is issued.