Skip to main content

New York loosens alcohol restrictions ahead of Buffalo Bills game in London Sunday morning


Bills fans will get rowdy no matter what it takes.

Ahead of the Buffalo Bills' London-based contest against the Jacksonville Jaguars, New York Governor Kathy Hochul directed the state's liquor authority to extend its deadline for special permits Tuesday, which would allow sports bars and restaurants throughout the state to start serving alcohol as early as 8 a.m.

"With the Buffalo Bills playing across the pond on Sunday morning, I know fans will be gathering for the big game & may fancy a pint," Governor Hochul announced on social media Tuesday. "I'm directing the State Liquor Authority to extend the deadline for special permits, so sports bars and restaurants can serve as early as 8am."

When was the last time the Bills played in London?

While this is a first for New York lawmakers, it marks the third time the Bills have traveled to London.

The Bills last traveled to London in 2015, playing the Jaguars at Wembley Stadium, losing 34-31. Prior to that, the Bills played a preseason game in London in the 1990s.

This weekend's game won't be at Wembley, opting instead for Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

European interest in American football has increased drastically since 2015, with tickets for games in Germany selling out minutes after going on sale.

When is the game?

The game is set for 9:30 am ET/6:30 am PT, a very early start.

Odds:

Spread: Buffalo (-5.5)

Moneyline: Buffalo (-250), Jacksonville (+200)

Over/Under: 48

Not interested in this game? Our guide to the NFL betting odds, picks and spreads has you covered with Thursday Night Football odds, Sunday Night Football odds and/or Monday Night Football odds.

If you’re new to sports betting, don’t worry. We have tips for beginners on how to place bet online. And Paste BN readers can claim exclusive promos and bonus codes with the online sportsbooks and sports betting sites.

Bills-Jags: Predictions, picks and odds for NFL Week 5 game

We occasionally recommend interesting products and services. If you make a purchase by clicking one of the links, we may earn an affiliate fee. Paste BN Network newsrooms operate independently, and this doesn’t influence our coverage.

Gannett may earn revenue from sports betting operators for audience referrals to betting services. Sports betting operators have no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See applicable operator site for its terms and conditions. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, help is available. Call the National Council on Problem Gambling 24/7 at 1-800-GAMBLER. Must be 21 or older to gamble.