Eli Ankou's NFL journey has been anything but ordinary. The 30-year-old defensive tackle has played for six teams and faced numerous challenges, including being released twelve times since 2017. Despite this adversity, he has remained resilient and focused on his love for the game. After a stint with the UCLA Bruins, Ankou signed with the Houston Texans as an undrafted free agent. He has since recorded 49 tackles and 2.5 sacks, mainly contributing to the Buffalo Bills where he is determined to help his teammates strive for a Super Bowl victory.

This past season was particularly meaningful for Ankou, who expressed that playing for his teammates provides a deeper motivation beyond personal success. He treasures the signed helmets from each season as tangible reminders of his journey and the bonds he has formed. Currently taking his career year by year, Ankou is committed to playing his best football, whether that leads to staying in Buffalo or finding a new home in the league.

Quentin Commanda, a talented artist from Nipissing First Nation, has turned his childhood dream of playing in the NFL into a tangible reality by designing the official football for Super Bowl LIX. This opportunity arose after NFL Canada commissioned him to create a special football that encapsulates his cultural heritage. Commanda's design, visually stunning and rich in symbolism, features the strawberry, which represents heart in Anishinaabe teachings, intertwined with elements of football.

The initiative aims not only to celebrate Indigenous culture but also to foster greater engagement with the sport among Indigenous communities. Commanda's creative process involved layering teachings and cultural elements, reflecting the deep connection between sports and community values.

This collaboration with NFL Canada signifies a shift towards inclusivity and representation within the sporting world, as Commanda hopes his work inspires conversations about Indigenous culture while reaching a wider audience.

Quentin Commanda, an artist from Nipissing First Nation, Ontario, has realized his childhood dream of connecting with the NFL through his unique football design for Super Bowl LIX. Commanda, who goes by the name Que Rock, was commissioned by NFL Canada to create a special edition football that symbolizes the intersection of Indigenous culture and American football.

His design incorporates elements of Anishinaabe teachings, particularly the strawberry, which represents heart, echoing the passion and spirit of the game. Commanda expresses that his work aims to educate and heal, fostering conversations about Indigenous culture through art. This project not only showcases his artistic talents but also serves to amplify Indigenous representation within the NFL.

A limited number of the designed footballs will be distributed at various events, including grassroots gatherings, as part of a collaborative initiative between NFL Canada and Football Canada aimed at promoting access to football in Indigenous communities.

Commanda's experience in this project has been overwhelmingly positive, as NFL Canada granted him creative freedom. Eli Ankou, a Buffalo Bills player and member of the Ojibwe tribe, praised the design, emphasizing its intentionality and deeper meaning. Commanda's work strikes a chord, resonating with the community and reflecting the importance of contributing to significant projects that bridge culture and sport.

The Buffalo Bills showcased a strong offensive line in their Week 9 victory over the Miami Dolphins, allowing minimal pressure on quarterback Josh Allen. Despite the offensive success, the defense struggled significantly, failing to contain Tua Tagovailoa and allowing him to complete an impressive 25 of 28 passes.

Spencer Brown and David Edwards stood out with high PFF grades, while the defensive line, particularly DaQuan Jones, faced criticism for poor performance. The game was highlighted by Tyler Bass' record-setting 61-yard field goal, sealing the win for Buffalo.

The Buffalo Bills face a challenging Week 8 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks, missing key players Terrel Bernard and Curtis Samuel. Bernard, the starting middle linebacker, is sidelined due to an ankle injury, adding to his previous absence from two games this season. He has made significant contributions when healthy, recording 32 tackles and one interception.

Curtis Samuel, a wide receiver, will also miss the game after suffering a pectoral injury. His absence opens the door for Jalen Virgil, who will make his debut with the Bills after being elevated from the practice squad. The inactives list also includes safety Mike Edwards and linebacker Edefuan Ulofoshio, among others, as the team adjusts for the upcoming game.