On October 17, following an injury to Allen and a poor performance by backup quarterback Nathan Peterman in relief, Anderson was named the Week 7 starter for the Bills against the Indianapolis Colts. During the game, Anderson threw for 175 yards, no touchdowns, and three interceptions in a 37–5 loss. With Allen still injured, Anderson made the start the following week against the New England Patriots on "Monday Night Football". He threw for 290 yards, no touchdowns, and one interception before leaving the game in the fourth quarter. He was put into concussion protocol and ruled out for the Week 9 game against the Chicago Bears, and Peterman was named the starter once again.