Buffalo Bills turn to rookie quarterback Josh Allen against Chargers

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For the Buffalo Bills, Josh Allen’s time is now.

Coach Sean McDermott said Wednesday the rookie quarterback will make his first career start for the Bills on Sunday against the Los Angeles Chargers.

“It’s the right move for our team,” McDermott said.

Allen replaces second-year pro Nathan Peterman, who struggled badly in a 47-3 blowout loss to the Baltimore Ravens in Week 1. Peterman threw for 24 yards and two interceptions before being replaced by Allen in the second half.

McDermott declined to elaborate on his thought process regarding the decision, instead saying it was “the right move” for his team more than 10 times.

“I don’t feel the need, honestly, to elaborate,” McDermott said. “We talk a lot in-house about decisions and things and what we’ve got to do and the right move at the right time and right now, with all respect to your question, this is the right move for us.”

The Bills hoped to bring Allen along at a calculated and methodical pace after drafting him seventh over all this spring. Allen has a strong arm and ideal physical tools, but has been considered a developmental project. The Bills, however, were forced into making a change following one of the worst losses in franchise history.

“I’m excited for him,” McDermott said. “I’m excited for our football team and excited to see and watch him prepare this week more so than anything at this point.”

The Associated Press