One of the main reasons I think McD decided to punt is because the D has come through on several occasions to help close out football games this season. The O on the other hand, not so much, especially with a 3rd string QB behind center.
Didn't like the call at the time, but I also had a bad feeling Buffalo wasn't going to get to the 1st down marker.
Smart, calculated, and thanks to OP's good breakdown the correct call to make.
Buffalo may not have a boatload of talent right now , but what we do have is a smart HC and a smart group of players buying into the process.
Contrary to OP I think anythings possible once you make the playoffs.
I'm a Billiever...