Bills turn in big plays, defeat Bears 27-20

by Brian Galliford on Aug 16, 2009 12:46 AM EDT in News Comment 92 comments

It was not a perfect night at Ralph Wilson Stadium, but "not perfect" doesn't mean "bad" - and the Buffalo Bills were a far cry from bad in defeating the Chicago Bears 27-20 in their first home pre-season game of the season. Several young Bills turned in big plays, the team had good showings in key areas, and a few questions were answered (in a not-set-in-stone way, of course) along the way.

To say the DVR failed epically this evening would be a dramatic undersell. Without getting into the specifics - I like my blood pressure right where it's at now, thanks - let's just say that I, personally, am only going to have one shot at seeing this game. My thoughts on some of the big issues are after the jump, and we'll be getting more in-depth over the coming days.

No-huddle needs Owens
QB Trent Edwards played into the second quarter, completing all ten of his passing attempts for 79 yards, while also taking two sacks. The Bills, however, struggled in an area all too familiar to Bills fans - getting receivers open. Edwards was 10-of-10 in part because he was forced to check to short throws (though he did have three nice strikes to WR Lee Evans for 54 yards). Chicago's corners were playing Bills receivers tight, and as a result, it caused a few problems for the Bills' aerial attack.

Where Owens was missed most, however, was in the red zone. Once again, the first-team offense struggled to put the ball in the paint, settling for a 28-yard Rian Lindell field goal on their only trip into the red area. Owens helps the team between the twenties too, obviously, but the Bills had 46-yard and 60-yard drives on the evening. They should be able to move the ball in the event that they're without a major weapon. But though the no-huddle kept the Bears on their toes tonight, it wasn't as efficient as it should be. Without both receivers in the lineup, the offense will struggle.

Ryan Fitzpatrick can play, it turns out
It was tough not to be impressed with Ryan Fitzpatrick tonight. His units struggled in the red area, too, but his 13-of-16 for 143 yards performance should quiet some of his tougher critics, if only for a few days. He has looked in command of the no-huddle attack throughout the pre-season, and he made some absolutely beautiful throws in the face of pressure tonight. In particular, a 23-yard seam route to TE Jonathan Stupar was a thing of beauty - that's a difficult throw to make, and he made it look easy. Again, it wasn't perfect - but this was a very encouraging performance.

Offensive Line still a work in progress
For the most part tonight, I thought the starting line of Langston Walker, Andy Levitre, Geoff Hangartner, Eric Wood and Brad Butler provided excellent pass protection. Edwards generally had plenty of time to throw; though he was sacked twice, one was on an overload blitz that Edwards failed to read hot, and the other was possibly Edwards' only indecisive play of the night. Otherwise, it was smooth sailing.

It's pretty clear that this no-huddle will be pass-oriented - 13 of the first-unit offense's 24 plays were passes, after all, and the way the Bills are running the ball right now, they'll need to throw early in the season until the line comes together a bit more. The Bills ran for 123 yards on the evening, sure, but it took 43 rushing attempts to get there. That's 2.86 yards per attempt, folks - and that total plummeted to 2.48 yards per carry for the team's running backs. The pass blocking is solid enough to be getting on with; we need to see a few more running lanes, and hopefully, we'll see the sooner rather than later.

All in all, however, the Bills still picked up 375 yards of offense while eating up 38 minutes of game clock. They were helped by some big plays defensively, but without their biggest offensive star, there were plenty of encouraging signs offensively tonight.

Corners turn in big plays
Leodis McKelvin may be getting torched by Evans and Owens in practice, but he's acquitting himself nicely against actual opponents. After logging an interception last weekend in the Hall of Fame Game, McKelvin again intercepted a pass - this time a deep throw from Jay Cutler intended for Devin Hester. Leo also had a pass breakup on a third-and-short play to snuff out Chicago's opening drive.

Two picks in two games wasn't good enough to outshine rookie Ellis Lankster, however. Lankster intercepted two passes on the evening within one minute of game time, setting up two consecutive fourth-quarter touchdowns to put the game on ice for the Bills. If you were skeptical of Lankster's routine interceptions in practice, this performance should put your mind at ease. Lankster dropped a potential third interception as well.

Undrafted rookie free agent Lydell Sargeant got in on the act, too, pulling in a pick late to seal the victory. In all, Bills corners had four picks on the evening - even though it should have been five, as Reggie Corner dropped a gift-wrapped toss from Cutler early in the game. The corners were great, but they were helped out by a surprisingly solid Bills pass rush.

Pass rush has a pulse - seriously
McKelvin's early interception would not have been possible without heat on Cutler from Chris Kelsay - yes, that Chris Kelsay, the much-maligned end who was essentially booed during pre-game introductions tonight. (Seriously - lighten up, Bills fans. Who the hell boos at a pre-season game? On Kid's Night? Sheesh.) Kelsay didn't get close enough to sack Cutler on the play, but he was bearing down, causing Cutler to make a poor decision. It should also be noted that Kelsay's pressure came on a counter move - perhaps that tae kwon do training is paying off.

Second-team ends Chris Ellis and Copeland Bryan had nice nights as well. On back-to-back plays, Ellis and Bryan recorded sacks on Bears QB Caleb Hanie. Ellis' sack was a thing of beauty, bending the edge and catching Hanie from behind as he stepped up into the pocket. Bryan forced a fumble on his sack, which Ellis promptly recovered. The pass rush itself was responsible for the fifth and final Bears turnover of the evening. I don't know if Aaron Maybin was watching this contest, but Ellis and Bryan are supposed to make his understudies. While he waits for a deal, his understudies are making plays. Just sayin'.

I have much more to talk about, and I'd like to flesh some of this out a bit more, but it's late, I'm wired beyond belief, and my fingers are shaking. Let's hear it, folks - what were your impressions of this game? I'll leave you with this - barring injury, which has derailed many a Bills team in the past, this Bills team has a chance to be very, very surprising. The pieces are in place. I am genuinely excited.

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This team can be surprising if the offense learns to punch it into the end zone. This is the issue we’ve had for years, and it’d be nice if they started getting some TD’s before the end of the preseason, just to make us a little more comfortable.

Question for those who watched….will this team be able to run the ball at all this year? They were poor in that area last week and from the sounds of things, weren’t any better there this week.

Glad to see the defense making some plays. That would be a refreshing change, for once. Of course, the majority of it was the second and third units, but it’s a start.

I hope to be able to watch the game by Tuesday and throw my thoughts up. Thanks for the recap Brian.

~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."

by Kurupt on Aug 16, 2009 12:52 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I think/hope

That the main reason they haven’t been able to run these past two days is a combo of really good defensive units, and the o line still gelling. The titans and the bears are known for fantastic defenses. We will see how they fare over the next three weeks. Also Roscoe should catch every punt, including preseason, just have him fair catch it!

Bills make me wanna SHOUT!

by silverstreak3k on Aug 16, 2009 1:02 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions 0 recs

For the running

I don’t see as much of an emphasis to really grind out groundage in the preseason. It can cause unnecessary injuries and so I don’t mind more passing with just simple run plays. However, this line needs to open holes, and if they’re not, then we do have trouble. Lets hope that we see some improvement soon

The Bills CAN win any game

by killascript on Aug 16, 2009 1:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

exciting offense again

It looks as if they are going to be a pass first, run second offense. That may change when the defenses they face start keying on the air attack. The passing game will be setting up the run and then the run will be setting up the passing game. It really is still too early to tell, but the passing game looked great from the entire team…starters all the way down to back-ups. Its hard to not be excited about the way they played last night and with Trent going 10 for 10, it even adds to it. If the fast paced offense works they way they want ti to, the O-line questions won’t be an issue.

by JTM1023 on Aug 16, 2009 7:52 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

will this team be able to run the ball at all this year?

Not with out some sort of major change by the looks of it. We’re obviously going to be very pass oriented which is fun to watch but hopefully we can sustain drives so the D isn’t on the field all day.

We can pass to setup the run – that’s fine with me. Get a little of that Patriots style going is fine.

From Article:

The pieces are in place. I am genuinely excited

Me as well – it was actually fun to watch this game. Some good plays – decent pass rush – turnovers. Trent looks pretty darn good if I may say so – let’s not jinx that – but he’s looking solid in the preseason for whatever that’s worth.

Who the hell boos at a pre-season game?

Yeah – i’m not the biggest Kelsay supporter – but not on kids night folks – that’s just not good karma (the last thing a Buffalo team needs is bad karma).

this Bills team has a chance to be very, very surprising

We’re gonna beat some teams this year guys – make no mistake. I have a feeling we’re going to be putting up a good amount of points this year.

the thing that impressed me most from last week was that they improved from last week. Opponent may have had a lot to do with it because it was their first preseason game. But they did improve. That’s encouraging – let’s see move improvement next week.

I am so clever that sometimes I don’t understand a single word of what I am saying

by J2 on Aug 16, 2009 10:05 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yeah...

The run offense has been terrible in both games now.

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 10:10 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Its the line, they still haven’t quite jelled yet. Personally I’d like to see more of Chambers and less of Levitre. Nothing against the kid, but i think that Chambers might gel in a little better.

Captain of the "Promote Bob Sanders to Deffensive Coordinator" band wagon.

by CanadianBillsFan on Aug 17, 2009 12:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Levitre held his ground last night. On at least one play he was the only one who held his ground in pass pro while everyone else was knocked two or three yards back. They all played fine last night just not well.

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

They all played fine last night just not well.

Isn’t that what we’ve been realisticly hoping for all along?

Captain of the "Promote Bob Sanders to Deffensive Coordinator" band wagon.

by CanadianBillsFan on Aug 17, 2009 1:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It’s what I was hoping for all along. Trent had three seconds on every play except the corner blitz. In that case he’s supposed to throw the hot route to Roscoe but he didn’t see it.

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

But in our current no-huddle, 3 seconds is all he should need. Jus look at the Colts, for years they had horrible guards on their O-line, stellar C and T’s, but the guards were very weak. All they asked for Payton was 3 seconds, and it worked. Now I’m not going to start comparing Trent Edwards to Payton Manning, because Trent would end up being the loser every time, but the systems are very simular. Trent should have a lot of success as long as he gets 3+ seconds to make his throw.

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by CanadianBillsFan on Aug 17, 2009 7:07 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Agreed about the running game. Definitely needs some work but it also took until the second half of last season to get things worked out. Also I really think they need to let Marshawn grind some more runs out. Let’s face it he has a 3week vacay at the beginning of the season, why not let him get used to playing with that extra weight. AND I have to say he does look bigger, but slower also…
I whole heartedly agree about Lankster – no one can say he doesn’t make the team now.
It is unfortunate Corner dropped that INT but I have to say from what I saw Corner is well beyond Youboty on the depth chart in my opinion.

by Ghetts on Aug 16, 2009 1:46 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

The run-blocking certainly remains a big problem. It did get a little better toward the second half of last year, but we still were in a situation where we couldn’t count on pounding it in on the ground if we were 3rd-and-goal on the two yard line. But I would strongly take issue with Brian’s comment that the pass portection was “excellent” last night. As Ron notes on another thread, Trent was constantly under pressure and will not survive very long this season unless the pass blocking gets significantly better. It was an improvement from last week, and this is only the second preseason game, but there is a long way to go before our QB gets the time he deserves.

by Macktruck on Aug 16, 2009 12:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

He took two sacks – one on a blitz, the other was a bad one – and was flushed from the pocket once. The line, in my estimation, had two poor plays out of 13 Trent drop-backs. Maybe “excellent” was strong, but “constant pressure” is incorrect.

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by Brian Galliford on Aug 16, 2009 12:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

By constant pressure I meant Bears’ defenders closing in on him forcing him to throw a series of short and quick passes. That seems to have been in line with the gameplan, but what seemed clear to me was that that gameplan was necessary because he would not have had time for anything else. I could be wrong, but my sense is that Brady routinely gets twice as much time as Trent got last night.

by Macktruck on Aug 16, 2009 1:00 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

OK, but why does that matter if the passing attack is clicking? What does it matter that Edwards doesn’t have a full five seconds to get rid of the ball? He gets rid of it far more often than not, and he’s 13/14 in the pre-season.

I’m not defending the line to the point where I’m saying they’re ready for the season. It’s still rough around the edges. But they played well last night. As you said, light years better than the Titans game (which I didn’t think they were awful in), and they’ve got time to get better.

Also, remember that a) we were without T.O., so the old “same old offense” bit was absolutely true from a skill position standpoint. We still moved the ball against a pretty good D – that’s the benefit of the no-huddle. We need Owens to help finish drives. If he can do that, our offense will be scary good – probably a little streaky with a young QB, but if we stay healthy, we should score enough to win a lot of games. But clearly, that won’t happen without Owens.

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by Brian Galliford on Aug 16, 2009 1:06 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That’s a very good point, but my concern is that if Trent does not get more protection than he got last night and is limited to the short passing game, opposing defensive coordinators will take notice and try to close down the short field as much as they can — in effect, daring us to go deep. If that happens everything will depend on whether the line can give him five seconds to set up and let his receivers run their routes. Right now, they are having a lot of trouble doing that. Having Owens will help, but as he himself said not long ago his effectiveness depends on the o-line. Don’t forget, by the way, that Chicago was playing last night without Tommie Harris. His presence might very well have balanced off the advantages of having Owens.

It’s interesting to note that on two other threads on this website — Ron’s write-up of his o-line analysis and the fanpost by Kaisertown — people seem to have a much more critical reading on the o-line’s performance last night than on this one. I guess dfiferent folks see the same thing different ways. As to who is really right, the W-L record at the end of the season will tell.

By the way, my sympathies on your DVR, Brian. I have never yet been able to get one to work consistently.

by Macktruck on Aug 16, 2009 3:44 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Completely disagree with you Macktruck. If opposing defenses see that we’re living by the dump-off, they’ll drop 8 and back off in their zones: preventing deep throws with the coverage and closing quickly to shutdown the short throws. This is essentially what 3-4 defenses did to Trent last year (see Cleveland, New England, San Francisco, etc.) Getting 2-3 yds / play with the short passing game won’t move the chains.

What we need to do is develop some alternative to keep defenses honest. We saw some success last year with the running game (e.g. draws out of passing sets). I think that might prove more difficult with the current state of the line. Hopefully we can get the screens working, as several linemen out front blocking might help us get more yardage out of short throws.

by crp2103 on Aug 16, 2009 7:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That’s exactly what I meant by “daring us to go deep.” I think in fact we completely agree. And it’s why I think (as I suspect you do as well) the key to success is opening up the running game, but that in turn means effective run-blocking — which is the ingredient we have been missing in our offense since the days of Reuben Brown & Co. So far I think the jury is completely out on the 2009 line and it may be quite a while before the verdict comes in.

by Macktruck on Aug 16, 2009 9:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Saying Edwards was under constant pressure is an overstatement.

The pocket is rarely clean. Some throws may be dictated by pressure, but most are dictated by progression, route timing, and coverage reads.

Brady gets a clean pocket for a couple reasons:
-His line is cohesive and has worked together for a while, and, by the way, their talented.
-Teams are dropping into a lot of coverage to deal with Moss and Welker. The Giants showed how to get to Brady, but not too many teams have the DL to get that kind of pressure on a QB.

by Der Jaeger on Aug 16, 2009 2:08 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I'm just glad we are backing off of "excellent"

If Trent was under constant pressure or not is under debate, but what’s not is the fact that he took 2 sacks in about 1/3rd of a game. I though Trent played well tonight, but 2 sacks pro-rated to an entire game would make 6 sacks, and that’s not good by any measure.

by StroudFanClub on Aug 16, 2009 9:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

He wasn’t throwing short because of pressure. He kept getting his three seconds. He was throwing short because everyone downfield was covered. And he still averaged 7.9 YPA!

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 10:13 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Red Zone

Well first, Schonert is starting to take more risks with play calling, so hopefully that will lead to more corner fades, or lead to popping up it to some tall guy like T.O., Shawn Nelson or (eventually)(hopefully) James Hardy. They’re all tall enough to reach over most cornerbacks. (Speaking of which… Nelson had a TD)

So hopefully the playcalling will help the bills out
When Nelson learns the playbook and gets some good practice in, The bills should be respectable in the redzone with their options of him, and T.O. Also if they pass more, then defenses dont get used to the typical “lets see if we can fool them with 3 straight running plays” strategy, then they can also run it in.
But yea, line up 6’3" Owens, 6’5" Nelson, 6’5" Hardy as 3 receivers, plus a good pass catching running back(which is all of our runningbacks) (who can also pound it in), we have a legit shot of being an above average red-zone team.

If we master or atleast do decently in the red zone, it will be a major help in avoiding ANOTHER year out of the playoffs

by JMP on Aug 16, 2009 3:32 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I thought the same thing

But yea, line up 6’3" Owens, 6’5" Nelson, 6’5" Hardy as 3 receivers, plus a good pass catching running back(which is all of our runningbacks) (who can also pound it in), we have a legit shot of being an above average red-zone team.

I would love the Bills to win games, but I will be happy if they are competitive without snatching defeat from the jaws of victory.

by Joe P. on Aug 16, 2009 9:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Don't forget the other three Tight Ends

We can’t put everyone on the field. D. Fine is 6’3", D. Schouman 6’2" and J. Stupar 6’2". That’s four or five inches over Evans, Reed and Parrish. Hard to take Evans off the field but we should no longer depend on smurf type playmakers in the redzone.

by VanScottM on Aug 16, 2009 11:35 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

RedZone Problem

What i seen in the redzone was to much running i think we should do more playaction in the redzone because most teams know that we will run even with the big guys

GO BUFFALO

by kooldude on Aug 17, 2009 11:46 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Play Calling

Didn’t we run the ball on third and goal from the fourteen. Second quarter, about ten minute mark. That blew my mind. I would love to know the truth behind that one.

by VanScottM on Aug 16, 2009 4:19 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Who's calling the plays?

One of the announcers – can’t remember if it was Tasker or Bently – referred to Turk calling in a play to Trent. But I wonder how this is actually handled.

With the emphasis on picking up the pace, who is actually calling the plays – Turk or Trent? Or does Trent have a set of limited plays he can run with a certain set, and a certain personnel grouping?

As for at least one play in which it was third and long (I don’t recall the Bills being close to the end zone, VSM, but I could be wrong) and they called a run, that one has Jauron written all over it. Set up Lindell as best you can, don’t worry about making the first. We’ll take the three. Not saying I like it (I seem to recall the crowd booing that stinker), but it is the Dick we all know and love.

by Defensewinsgames on Aug 16, 2009 5:25 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

In Edwards’ postgame conference, he said (paraphrasing): “I think Turk did a fantastic job calling the plays tonight.”

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by TheAfghanTwilight on Aug 16, 2009 10:42 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

The no huddle is not only a quick strike offense

Trent ran an awesome ball control offense tonight from the no-huddle. For that matter so didn’t Fitz. TOP was huge. Yards were real good, they ran the ball maybe not effectively but enough to keep the defense honest. It was all good except the lack of TD’s, by the first and second teams. Game three for us is next, game two for most. Those two sacks of Edwards should be a focal point in this weeks practice. Trent needs to see where they come from, the O-Line needs to start identifying these hot reads. Hang needs to start bringing in these lineman and help Trent out. The one sack was untouched.

by VanScottM on Aug 16, 2009 11:27 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

There’s a great deal more to this situation than it’s being made out to be:

1.) It’s strategy. The Bears Cover 2 dictates the down 4 lineman immediately shoot a gap and rush the passer, especially on a 3rd-and-long. The corners are playing short zones and wouldn’t effect any dive play. The safeties are deep outside thirds, and couldn’t react in time to a dive. The MLB is thinking deep center drop, and could effect the play after yards were gained. The OLB’s or DB’s playing the hook zones are the only defenders ready for a run.

… so, if the OL shields the DL off as they shoot gaps, and block the OLB’s, you can pop a long run on 3rd and long. If they pick-up 8-10 yards on the run, it’s 4th and goal, and time to try out any plays you have for that situation…..

2.) Preseason is about trying things out. Maybe the team wanted to see how their second level blocking in a passing situation worked. We won’t ever know.

by Der Jaeger on Aug 16, 2009 2:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Turk calls the play or plays into Trent.

Then Trent has the option of changing them (or picking from the set) at the line.

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

They did. Edwards changed the play at the line of scrimmage on that one. And yeah, everyone’s all up in arms about it, but I didn’t see it as that big of a deal. They weren’t scoring a TD through the air and the Bears had deepish coverage set up on the play, so Trent tried to catch them off guard by giving it to a pretty good back.

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by Brian Galliford on Aug 16, 2009 8:36 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

yeah – what are you going to do there? That’s a difficult situation to be in. Screen or fade to Nelson would have been good options or a crossing pattern – but that’s a rough situation there to be in. That’s why they can’t put themsleves in those positions.

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by J2 on Aug 16, 2009 10:07 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

How about try a fade route to the corner of the end zone to Nelson. In order of likelihood, it’s an INC (no harm), a pass interference penalty or a TD.

Of course we could make things more challenging, Lisa, but then the stupider students would be in here complaining, furrowing their brows in a vain attempt to understand the situation--Seymour Skinner

by Ron From NM on Aug 16, 2009 10:28 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Is there such a thing as an almost-24-yard fade route?

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by Brian Galliford on Aug 16, 2009 10:59 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I was about to say, not like we have a QB with an arm like Cutler – oh, well we probably would’ve been intercepted if we had… hehe

by Ghetts on Aug 16, 2009 6:53 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Yes, I think we saw one when the Bills played the Titans. It was like Vince Young lobbed the ball into a basket at a certain point in the end zone.

Hey….didn’t the Bears score on a 14 yard pass? It can be done…

by Ron From NM on Aug 16, 2009 11:31 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That fade by Young wasn’t from the 14.

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 10:17 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That fade was on a small corner and Edwards could have thrown the ball on a fade but will reed and evans out there i would not may be he should have done a play action fade maybe that would have worked out but who know the bills win woohoo

GO BUFFALO

by kooldude on Aug 17, 2009 11:49 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Now that's a sentence.

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 12:35 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

We need to find Playmakers on the Offense too!!!

BeSides the O-Line coming together and a noticeable pass rush. #3 has got to be Trents deciscion making abilitiy. His confidence level in the players on the field. We had twenty three yards to play with to get someone open for a TD. This is an everyday practice situation and Trent calls a run play. Chicago’s first preseason game and their defensive formation causes an audible. This is becoming more of an area to pay attention to than maybe the 0-Line and Pass Rush.

by VanScottM on Aug 16, 2009 11:06 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

i got the feel that the play was a bit of a ‘mail-it-in’ play. they weren’t going anywhere through the air with the defense on that play, that’s for sure.

by the_prophet on Aug 16, 2009 8:50 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It was the safe play as opposed to throwing an INT. You guarantee yourself a good FG chance and maybe with your RB you can put one in.

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 10:15 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Especially with a kicker that has never missed point blank

by Ghetts on Aug 17, 2009 12:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Thanks to the Lions game going late,

the NFL network where I live didn’t start showing the Bills game until mid 1st quarter (about where Cutler had the long throw to Hester). So I will have to hope the replay has the beginning of the game.

I didn’t get to see much of Edwards. But even though he completed all his passes, many of them were curls were the WR had no hope of getting YAC. I agree with Brian about Fitz. We may need to get off his back. He looked really good last night. He hit some very nice quick slants. The Nelson TD was a thing of beauty. I would expect to see him a lot in the red zone.

Over all, I was very impressed and encouraged. The team looked good. The coaching looked good, for the most part. But, I am not going to get too excited until we see what happens on MNF.

I would love the Bills to win games, but I will be happy if they are competitive without snatching defeat from the jaws of victory.

by Joe P. on Aug 16, 2009 10:09 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Man oh man...

So they treat the sold out crowd to those pop warner uniforms?

I didn’t see the game because of a prior commitment, but someone needs to inform ESPN that game highlights should involve more than one team, and that one team’s new QB. They literally showed nothing of the Bills’ offense.

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by TheAfghanTwilight on Aug 16, 2009 10:37 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

No T.O. no highlites

I felt the same way about ESPN this morning watching the highlites, they were all about Cutler and the Bears. They showed no plays of the Bills offense— not one, no T.O. no highlites!!

by Goose22 on Aug 16, 2009 10:48 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Just watched them for the first time.

We did get pressure on Cutler. He is a mobile QB but first Practice game and all, we contained him. Just like Collins he really didn’t have time to look down field. The one play he did was Leo’s pick. There were no sacks but respectable pressure.

by VanScottM on Aug 16, 2009 11:18 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Pleasantly Surprised while watching them for the 1st time this year...

Brian is right — We need T.O. out there, but it was nice to see Lee go/catch a pass over the middle. Trent looked good. One thing I liked to see was him stepping up and to the side while he was in the pocket to try to extend the play…as if he was “feeling” the pressure. I thought the line did o.k. in pass pro. When I the chance, I mainly tried watched Walker. I thought he looked fine out there. The sack by Corey Graham brought visions of Adrian Wilson from the Cards game last year…

We really need to get the run game together…no push it seemed, but I’m, sure that will come in time (right?) I thought all 3 QB’s looked good (excluding Baker…wasn’t paying too much attention to him). I’m not confident in Fitz or Hamdan, but I don’t think it will be the end of the road if they have to come in for Trent.

Defense looked alright as well. Of course we got beat by their TE’s for some big gains, we played them well. Leo’s INT was a gift from Cutler, but he did make a nice play. The D-line actually got some pressure…I was surprised by this as well. I thought they made Cutler throw alot faster than he wanted. It wasn’t the Giant’s D-line, but it was promising. I also thought they did well stopping the run.

Two names I’ve heard about alot this preseason: Stupar & Lankaster. The coaching staff will have to give these guys roster spots. I thought they both played really well.

Overall, it was good showing by the Bills. I am a bit more optimistic than I was last year at this point. Kudos to the coaching staff as well. I was glad they kept a majority of the the unit in as long as they did.

Aaron Maybe?

by MonStarr_716 on Aug 16, 2009 11:54 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

The sack by Corey Graham brought visions of Adrian Wilson from the Cards game last year…

And in both cases the sack was on Trent. That should be a hot read and Parrish was uncovered on the play.

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 10:19 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

It’s not clear here, but just as a reminder, the hit from Wilson last year was not a sack. Edwards stuck in and completed the pass (over the middle to Hardy, I think).

"I know I'm a true receiver..." Roscoe Parrish, Buffalo Bills - May 2009
"In my heart, I know I'm funny." Lt Steven Hauk, Good Morning Vietnam - 1987

by thefourwinds on Aug 17, 2009 1:14 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

True. My bad. I should have said “in both cases the hits were on Trent.” But the route was slow developing. He was supposed to throw it a lot sooner.

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 2:20 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

*Lankster

Oh yeah…the fade to Nelson for a T.D. made me extremely giddy…..

Aaron Maybe?

by MonStarr_716 on Aug 16, 2009 11:57 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I think the best thing about last nights game

was Kawika Mitchell’s mustache and sideburns. Anyone else see him on the sidelines?

by dragonwag0n on Aug 16, 2009 1:14 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

You realize the stache is named “Pepe,” right? Seriously. :)

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by Brian Galliford on Aug 16, 2009 1:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Amazing

by Ghetts on Aug 16, 2009 6:55 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

And from what he said he’s cutting it for the regular season… :-(

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 10:20 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

anyone else severely disappointed with rhodes?

i mean the dropped punt was bad it happens but it shouldnt. the fumble was bad. he just doesnt impresse me. Ive been to training camp a few times and i always see him complaining about somone going to hard during one on ones or not making the blocks. I do have to say how impressed i am with omon. Maybe theres goin to b some rb controversy with for the 3rd rb spot?

by billsstein on Aug 16, 2009 1:30 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

who’s going to supplant him? omon sure isn’t.

by the_prophet on Aug 16, 2009 5:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

and why not? hes a better blocker than rhodes. if u want to argue that rhodes has better hand that be very difficult. its the 3rd rb spot theres absolutely no reason to say that omon wouldnt be able to handle it. the only thing that rhodes has is experience but honestly does a 3rd string rb need that much experience?

by billsstein on Aug 16, 2009 6:42 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

He’d need that experience if Jackson misses any time in the first three games. I wasn’t at all impressed with Rhodes, but that’s because he’s a midiocre back. He’s never been anything other than a mediocre back his whole career. He’s definitely a better receiver than Omon, can return kicks (although apparently not punts!), is a decent runner inside and outside, and can handle short yardage despite his size.

I think Rhodes is going to have a really tough time finding any touches when Lynch comes back, but I can’t imagine that Omon will supplant Rhodes. And has Omon really looked that good? Omon’s been solid, but nothing special and can be easily stashed on the PS this season.

by kaisertown on Aug 16, 2009 8:59 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

no huddle play selection and a few other things

i really didn’t like the play calling for the no huddle. in two situations marshawn ran for 6 and 5 yards on first down, then the bills preceded to run again and get no yards. why not get the defense on their heals and try for the big play after getting a good gain on first?

also after the lee evans big gain, why not hurry up and throw it again? the corners just got beat so they are going to be a little edgy, keep the momentum going, especially when we have TO and Lee in there

one last thing, why did Ko play most of the game? either way he looked terrible and byrd needs to get healthy so we can see what hes got

by jwest529 on Aug 16, 2009 1:37 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I wouldn’t worry about the play calling just yet. Right now, the no-huddle remains very, very new, and they need to play around with a few things to figure out a) how best to sustain drives and b) not shoot themselves in the foot by having very short drives that wipe out their defense.

The no-huddle has looked very good, but it, too, is still a work in progress.

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by Brian Galliford on Aug 16, 2009 3:22 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

So after we get five yards on a run it’s a bad idea to try it again? If we get five yards on every carry I think you would be happy.

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 10:21 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

it would be nice, but the second time the ran it, they would only get 1-2 yards

by jwest529 on Aug 17, 2009 12:17 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

But you assume that’s because of the play call. Should they alternate run and pass every play? If something works what is wrong with trying it again?

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 12:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I agree

I just think the Bills were a little too predictable in doing a run play after one worked. I know it’s preseason and the Bills IMO aren’t going to throw out anything much, but for the regular season I hope they work in some play action and screen plays afterwards.

by Ghetts on Aug 17, 2009 2:09 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

They used screens and play action effectively. Fourth and one and Trent takes the play action bootleg for 17. How often did they do that last year? :-)

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 2:21 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Oh I definitely think the plays this year will be better. I mean holy sh@t a slant route! And people catching it!

by Ghetts on Aug 17, 2009 2:29 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

picks.

In all, Bills corners had four picks on the evening – even though it should have been five, as Reggie Corner dropped a gift-wrapped toss from Cutler early in the game.

Actually 6, Lankster should have had a 3rd INT, it went off his hands.

"It's that time of the year where all teams are involved in making some, to a degree, painful decisions." - Marv Levy

by Jason from OH-IO on Aug 16, 2009 6:12 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Well, I think that would have been one of the greatest interceptions ever. It wasn’t actually a gimme play like the one that Corner dropped.

"I know I'm a true receiver..." Roscoe Parrish, Buffalo Bills - May 2009
"In my heart, I know I'm funny." Lt Steven Hauk, Good Morning Vietnam - 1987

by thefourwinds on Aug 16, 2009 6:36 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

So when I was writing what I liked about the game I lost internet and only got some of it…
So here are my complete thoughts:
Anyone who has been saying you knock off Stupar from my projection list he has had two solid preseason games, I don’t see him leaving, and on one play if Fitz hadn’t over thrown him he would’ve had an easy TD.
McKelvin should be able to rack up the INT this year, he seems to have a nack for being in the right spot.
The no huddle though is new definitely looks effective. When you think about things our #2 and possibly #4 and #5 (since I think Parrish is the worse) couldn’t play because of injuries. And also they are possibly the best mismatches for opposing DB in the redzone.
If Parrish isn’t traded by the beginning of the season he won’t be here next year. Tell that man to stop dancing and actually run!
Ko Simpson doesn’t make the team. When I rewatched that play with the TD he just seemed lost. Though I think if Lankster played that harder he would’ve been able to break up the pass, he seemed to just give up when Ko was to cover it. But overall Ko has looked bad.

by Ghetts on Aug 16, 2009 7:02 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

A Vast Improvement..

I thought that they really improved the look of the No Huddle Offense..O Line protected Trent a lot better,and against Da Bears,that’s something..With more work,there’s No Doubt that the running game will open up some..Takes a while for players to gel on the O Line,so I don’t think anyone can really get down on how they performed..The way they worked into the no huddle and back out of it was nice to see..Levitre seemed to have picked up some Wood i tude,and as the season progresses will be just fine..Wasn’t thrilled with Rhodes,but He’s had very little playing time,so I’m not going to fret that..They seemed to add a lot of balance to the whole game this week…I hope being this optimistic doesn’t make them fall apart next game,lol..Love our Tight End situation more every week..

by FanFromThe80s on Aug 16, 2009 7:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

agreed

Rhodes has had next to no time in an organized game with the Bills.

Twitter: helping to make anti-social people anti-socially social.

by TheAfghanTwilight on Aug 16, 2009 7:34 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

bummer I missed this one.......

Im glad to see some improvement though from last week……….hopefully it keeps building each week.

Godspeed Nick - RIP - 1986-2009

by norcaliangelsfan on Aug 16, 2009 7:48 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Who is our 3rd down RB?

I thought we would have seen more of Freddy. I am pretty sure he did not touch the ball till marshawn came off the field after being stung and that was on the last drive of the 1st Off.

As for Rhodes, we did not not see him much in the 1st pre season game and he did not look good regardless of the fumbled punt. I think Omon has shocked us all this preseason, but is it because we all had zero expectations after last year or can this really dude play? Can you give up Rhodes experience and reliability?

by PWilliams on Aug 16, 2009 9:00 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Rhodes did not play in the 1st preseason game – he was injured. It seems a bit early to throw the towel in on Rhodes due to what amounts to one mistake. He is obviously far more experienced than Omon and that is likely what will keep him ahead of Omon for at least for now. Imagine if F Jackson gets injured in the first game, wouldn’t you want someone who knows the no-huddle like the back of his hand to be in there instead of an upstart with mediocre potential?

by karovda on Aug 16, 2009 11:11 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

Quick hits

Just got back from my trip, I drove down with my wife & kids for the game. We had a great time. I was happy about certain things and pissed off about other things.

Clearly once again, it is clear that Reed is no #2 receiver and neither is Parrish, without TO or Scuba-Steve we are really hurting. I was completely pissed off to see that they did not insert Nelson with the first offense, I would have loved to see him grabbing a pass from Trent. I was glad to see him get a TD later on in the game.

I was really happy to see how great Omon looked. And Nelson catch was also nice. Ellis Lankster looked great as well.

I wasn’t impressed by the coaching staff but then again, I wasn’t expecting to be. I was disapointed not to see TO on the sidelines but I guess with so many rookies on the sidelines, they probably asked him to stay home or something.

Your ability to control the LOS is directly linked to your ability to win football games!
FEED the BEAST!

by keysh67 on Aug 16, 2009 10:51 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Aside from that one running play in the red zone, what did the coaches do wrong?

You know I have been critical of the coaching staff in the past, but I have to say I was encouraged with the play calling. It is pre-season after all, and you can’t expect them to stray to far from vanilla.

I would love the Bills to win games, but I will be happy if they are competitive without snatching defeat from the jaws of victory.

by Joe P. on Aug 17, 2009 6:41 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

I watched the game for the 3rd time tonight

and I am positive now. Copeland Bryan played great. He was putting constant pressure on the QB, but more importantly (because I know it was against second teamers) he was taking great angles, and his technique looked like a man really working on his game. I think this guy may be our future, he looked that good to me.

by Buffalonian on Aug 17, 2009 12:13 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I just watched it on DVR

Tis the season for weddings. Here are my two big thoughts:

+ Trent Edwards looked very good and averaged 7.9 yards per pass attempt. That is a key stat I’ll be looking at all year. If we can keep it over 7 it’s great. In comparison Jay Cutler threw for 6.4 YPA. Trent checked down a lot (sorry K) but he took what the defense gave him and without Owens in the game still managed to get the ball down the field and keep the pressure on the defense.

+ I hope those of you pining for Gibran Hamdan to be the back-up watched Fitzpatrick closely. He directed the offense on some great drives and threw some absolutely gorgeous passes. He took smart chances and moved the ball down the field.

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 10:01 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Tis the season for weddings.

tell me about it, i missed the entire second half because of this.

Bills make me wanna SHOUT!

by silverstreak3k on Aug 18, 2009 1:00 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

That would be a hilarious comment if it had been your own wedding.

"I know I'm a true receiver..." Roscoe Parrish, Buffalo Bills - May 2009
"In my heart, I know I'm funny." Lt Steven Hauk, Good Morning Vietnam - 1987

by thefourwinds on Aug 18, 2009 3:56 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

You had a wedding at 9pm?!?

~K
"As the governor of Louisiana once said, the only way Chris Kelsay can lose his job is if he got caught in bed with a dead girl or a live boy."

by Kurupt on Aug 19, 2009 1:32 AM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

One more thing.

I was impressed with him in camp and watching Stupar play tonight the Bills have to find a way to keep him around. His receiving skills are too good to ignore. I don’t know how he will see the field but I would rather have him inactive on game days than playing for someone else.

Playing Realistic Optimist at Buffalo Rumblings since 2008. Fear can hold you prisoner. Hope can set you free.

by MattRichWarren on Aug 17, 2009 10:08 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Playoffs?

Hey Brain looking at this game watching the bills not geting into the endzone while they where in the redzone do you think they will be able to make the playoffs even with T.O.? Also watching the game i seen the Defence was improved then last year not in players but in experience i think they can be top 10 if they keep that up.

GO BUFFALO

by kooldude on Aug 17, 2009 11:44 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs