Bills vs. Jaguars: Notes From The O-Line, Week 5
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 12:15 PM EDT
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Every week it seems the Buffalo Bills part ways with another starter or reasonably high draft choice. Trent Edwards was unceremoniously dumped in favor of a guy who, after what we can only hope was careful consideration by Buddy Nix and Chan Gailey, couldn't even make the practice squad. Marshawn Lynch was shipped off to Seattle for what we now know is less than the team could have gotten in terms of compensation. This week has seen the cutting of former third-round OLB (originally DE) Chris Ellis.
Don't be surprised if the next name to hit the streets is starting right tackle Cornell Green. I'll get to his performance in a moment, but just keep in mind that Cordaro Howard is a Georgia Tech alum, and he's also been getting reps at both tackle positions. There's no great reason to give Green the shoe, but then there really wasn't a great reason to give Edwards the bum's rush, either. Gailey told Chris Brown of BuffaloBills.com that Howard was in because Green was banged up. Uh-huh. Just like Edwards was the starting QB for the team and Buffalo won't trade Lynch because the team is dedicated to stacking talented players.
Before getting into the tables and such, I've seen several people post questions about my grading system. I think I explained what I do extensively in the first of these rambling posts, but I don't know that I addressed the ‘why.' Some have been curious as to why I rate all good plays as 95%, decent ones as 75% and bad ones as 55%. For example, on some truly terrible play why not give the guy a 35, or 43, or even a 0?
While everything involving people is bound to be at least a bit subjective, I am striving for consistency. A missed block is a bad play for that lineman; to try to quantify how badly that player screwed the pooch would require a lot of personal judgment. Comparatively, it's relatively easy for most of us to see a bad block and agree that that's what it was. In my grading system a good play and bad play cancel each other out. The aforementioned Green had one good run play, one bad one and nine decent ones, which gives him a 75% run grade for his performance against the Jags.
Once again, Gailey chose to give Howard and Kraig Urbik some live game reps. Once again, he didn't pay any attention at all to the scoreboard or where the Bills were on the field. This bugs me. Urbik and Howard came in for Demetrius Bell and Eric Wood when the Bills were set up on Jacksonville's side of the field after an interception. Howard had one bad play in which he let Aaron Kampman get past him and get his hands up to bat down a pass. Urbik had one bad run play where he fell over blocking (along with Geoff Hangartner) and left his defender on his feet. Would those bad plays have happened if Bell and Wood have been in the game? In truth, we'll never know, but Wood graded out better than Urbik on run plays, and Bell graded out better than Howard (most of his reps this game were on the right side) on pass plays. It just doesn't make a lot of sense to me to give guys reps on the offensive line sporadically, particularly when the team has terrific field position and the game is still very much in doubt.
There are a few things to note on the run grades. Neither Howard nor Urbik had many reps, with each getting a total of four. The interior linemen graded out pretty well, though it was interesting to see Hangartner didn't do quite as well against 4-3 linemen as he had the previous two weeks against 3-4 nose tackles.
| Individual Run Grades - Week 5 | |||||
| Player | Good | Decent | Bad | Killed | Grade |
| Bell, D. | 2 | 11 | 3 | 2 | 73.8% |
| Levitre, A. | 4 | 14 | 2 | 0 | 77.0% |
| Hangartner, G. | 3 | 14 | 3 | 1 | 75.0% |
| Wood, E. | 5 | 9 | 2 | 0 | 78.8% |
| Green, C. | 1 | 17 | 2 | 0 | 74.0% |
| Howard, C. | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 75.0% |
| Urbik, K. | 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 75.0% |
| Individual Run Grades - 2010 season-to-date | |||||
| Player | Good | Decent | Bad | Killed | Grade |
| Bell, D. | 7 | 68 | 12 | 3 | 73.8% |
| Levitre, A. | 18 | 44 | 8 | 1 | 77.9% |
| Hangartner, G. | 8 | 80 | 6 | 1 | 75.0% |
| Wood, E. | 19 | 63 | 7 | 1 | 78.8% |
| Green, C. | 7 | 78 | 10 | 1 | 74.0% |
| Howard, C. | 3 | 26 | 3 | 1 | 75.0% |
| Urbik, K. | 1 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 72.1% |
There were also a few items of interest in the pass grades. Urbik's sample remains too small to make any real judgments. For the season, he's participated in 19 pass plays. While he grades out in the very low 70s at this point, he'll need more reps before any firm opinion can be formed. Howard, who has closing in on two games' worth of reps on pass plays (53), grades out somewhat better than Green on both run and pass plays. This is why I think that Green might get his walking papers. Yes, he was a recent signing, but there is clearly no loyalty of any kind at One Bills Drive anymore.
| Individual Pass Grades, Week 5 | |||||||
| Player | Good | Decent | Bad | Killed | Sack | Help | Grade |
| Bell, D. | 0 | 33 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 73.3% |
| Levitre, A. | 1 | 38 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 75.5% |
| Hangartner, G. | 1 | 36 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 74.5% |
| Wood, E. | 0 | 32 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 74.4% |
| Green, C. | 1 | 20 | 5 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 71.9% |
| Howard, C. | 0 | 14 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 72.5% |
| Urbik, K. | 0 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 71.7% |
| Individual Pass Grades, 2010 season-to-date | |||||||
| Player | Good | Decent | Bad | Killed | Sack | Help | Grade |
| Bell, D. | 1 | 140 | 14 | 5 | 3 | 4 | 73.3% |
| Levitre, A. | 4 | 139 | 5 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 74.9% |
| Hangartner, G. | 4 | 165 | 7 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 74.7% |
| Wood, E. | 5 | 139 | 9 | 4 | 0 | 0 | 74.4% |
| Green, C. | 1 | 122 | 31 | 3 | 1 | 7 | 71.1% |
| Howard, C. | 0 | 49 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 0 | 73.5% |
| Urbik, K. | 0 | 16 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 71.8% |
Gailey again abandoned the run, attempting just seven rushes in the second half. Think about that for a moment. The Bills were tied at the half. What's the logic in going away from the run? It wasn't for lack of productivity, given that Buffalo averaged better than five yards per rush. I refuse to believe that it was due to some great faith Gailey has in Ryan Fitzpatrick's arm, particularly after watching some of his laughably bad passes. Even when Buffalo fell behind, the game wasn't so out of hand (until late in the fourth quarter) to justify snubbing 5+ yards per carry.
| Run Direction Success, Week 5 | |||
| Gap | Att | Yds | YPA |
| Left C | 5 | 30 | 6.0 |
| Left B | 1 | 4 | 4.0 |
| A | 6 | 49 | 8.2 |
| Right B | 2 | 5 | 2.5 |
| Right C | 6 | 19 | 3.2 |
| Run Direction Success, 2010 season-to-date | |||
| Gap | Att | Yds | YPA |
| Left C | 22 | 129 | 5.9 |
| Left B | 7 | 31 | 4.4 |
| A | 27 | 101 | 3.7 |
| Right B | 13 | 39 | 3.0 |
| Right C | 27 | 132 | 4.9 |
Some, by the way, might point out that the refs really screwed Buffalo on a couple of plays. The phantom chop-block call on Fred Jackson brought to mind the need to extend replay to grievously erroneous penalties. (I'm not talking about subjective calls like was a block holding or not, but undeniably obvious things like a 15-yard facemask called on a guy who indisputably grabbed only the jersey.) With that said, I saw several uncalled holds by Buffalo's linemen. They were recorded as bad plays, given that they easily could have been (and should have been) flagged. In this case, the poor calls seem to have evened out.
Buffalo had 12 possessions, three of which ended successfully. Green and Wood combined to kill the first; you'd think they'd be able to handle a simple stunt, though Wood at least blocked somebody while Green stood there looking like he was mentally checking things off his to-do (packing) list. Green and Howard killed the third drive, one which could have really set the tone for the game had it ended in a touchdown, instead of a false start and batted pass. Bell killed the fourth with his blatant hold. Hangartner killed the fifth by simply watching Terrance Knighton get to Fitzpatrick for a first down sack. The sixth was a one-play drive ended by the half. The refs killed Buffalo's initial second half drive (see above). Stupar and Spiller combined to not block Kampman and kill the ninth drive. Fitzpatrick's inaccurate throw doomed the tenth. Jackson's drop of a badly placed but catchable ball killed the penultimate drive.
| Killed Drives, 2010 | |
| Cornell Green |
5.0 |
| Demetrius Bell |
4.0 |
| Cordaro Howard |
0.5 |
| Jamon Meredith |
0.5 |
| OT total = 10 killed drives |
|
| Eric Wood |
3.5 |
| Geoff Hangartner |
2.5 |
| Andy Levitre |
1.0 |
| Kraig Urbik |
0.0 |
| G/C total = 7 killed drives |
|
For the record: Bills offensive tackles have killed as many drives as the team has touchdown drives.
As predicted, the Jags blitzed like maniacs. They sent five or more guys on 21 of 39 pass plays (53.8%). At first blush, it doesn't look like Fitzpatrick did too badly against the blitzes. He combined for 106 yards, five first downs and 1 TD. That's a little better than five yards per blitz. Upon further review, however, it's actually pretty pathetic when you look at it a slightly different way.
| Blitz Production, Week 5 | ||||
| Blitzes 1-17 |
48 yards |
2.8 YPB |
1 first down |
0 TD |
| Blitzes 18-21 |
58 yards |
14.5 YPB |
4 first downs |
1 TD |
If I'm a defensive coordinator, I'm more than willing to blitz continuously against the blitz. Every now and then, Fitzpatrick will get on a hot streak and rack up some nice chunks of yardage against the blitz. He might even get a TD. Most of the time, however, Fitzpatrick just isn't effective at all against the blitz. Knowing that he tends to scramble precipitously, the Jags appeared to be keeping one guy back to account for Fitzpatrick. Look for that to continue, as Fitzpatrick scrambled only once against a blitz, and then only for four yards.
Did I mention Green was riding the pine while Fitzpatrick lit up the defense on passes 18-21? It could be a coincidence...
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Comments
agreed,
But that won’t happen until Wang is 100% healthy or Wrotto has practiced with the team more (or both). Who knows what with the bye week though.
by DynamicHero22 on Oct 12, 2010 8:29 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree Howards average looks better than Green, but Howard has mostly gotten reps at guard. Has he really looked better in the handful of snaps he has had at tackle to punt Green? (Insert “He can’t do any worse!!?!?!?” gratuitous comment below)
As much as Green stinks, we are woefully short on tackles at this point… especially if Wang is practicing at guard.
Howard’s reps have been at tackle, mainly in place of Bell.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 12:39 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Well, he did spend a huge chunk of Week 2 playing LG for Levitre, too.
by Brian Galliford on Oct 12, 2010 12:46 PM EDT up reply actions
Yeah this week they were at tackle. But prior to this week I thought he was mostly at guard spelling Wood or Levitre.
by greysquirrel on Oct 12, 2010 12:53 PM EDT up reply actions
The past three weeks, actually, he’s been at OT.
by Brian Galliford on Oct 12, 2010 12:59 PM EDT up reply actions
Speaking of which...
does anyone know why they are practicing Wang at guard?
"I don't agree with a damn thing you say, but I would die for your right to say it."
"If I had to do it all over again, I'd do it all over again."
by ForeignArrow on Oct 12, 2010 1:25 PM EDT up reply actions
No
"Ability without character will lose. The Bills are going to be a team of high character. That stamp I will push very hard. I hope we can convey that to our fans and project something very special to the rest of the nation." - Marv Levy
by BuffaloBlueBlood on Oct 12, 2010 3:37 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Probably
because they are now using Howard at Tackle – so they need someone to replace him for interior depth.
Also, if they start giving Urbik reps at RT as they have mentioned previously then even more so they need someone for interior depth.
3 AM Monday morning games all 2010 - that's just dandy !
all these changed positions
i have not seen us draft one guy, change his positon and then be successful. Why don’t our coaches/GM’s just draft the postions that we need to fill. We look like dopes during the draft and during the season. It sets the players back atleast a year. Just plain stupid
And which of Buffalo’s draftees have been successful? Levitre, Wood, Byrd……all playing one position.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
Wood was a C in college. He changed position.
2010 Bills' truth in advertising: "Look out Cleveland, this year we score 6!" - bluecollarbuffalo
by thefourwinds on Oct 13, 2010 12:40 AM EDT up reply actions
And Byrd was a CB in college.
2010 Bills' truth in advertising: "Look out Cleveland, this year we score 6!" - bluecollarbuffalo
by thefourwinds on Oct 13, 2010 12:40 AM EDT up reply actions
and Levitre who was a T, but that is Ron’s point. I think his last statement was the missed sarcasm tag.
No, my point was those three have played thesame position since being drafted…unlike Whitener or Maybin.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 13, 2010 10:28 AM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Sorry about that then. I assumed you were talking about college position vs NFL position since that’s what the poster was referring too.
And for what it’s worth, in my mind Maybin has basically played the same position. I have yet to see him drop into coverage, he may have his hand off the ground on occasion now but his job is still the same.
Didn’t Levitre play some tackle last year?
2010 Bills' truth in advertising: "Look out Cleveland, this year we score 6!" - bluecollarbuffalo
by thefourwinds on Oct 13, 2010 9:14 PM EDT up reply actions
Are kills a subset of bad, or are they separate plays? I thought they were separate, but Howard and Urbik have the same grade and Howard has one more kill in his column with the other columns the same.
All killed plays are bad plays but not all bad plays are killed plays.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 12:40 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
yuck, pass blocking.
"I may be drunk, Miss, but in the morning I will be sober and you will still be ugly"
Tackles bad, mmkay?
"Give back some of that money you ain't [expletive] earned!" - Eric Wood
Current song recommendation: The Rolling Stones - "Shine a Light"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Oct 12, 2010 1:30 PM EDT up reply actions
poz
I think the problem is that it is harder to get a “good” play in pass protection than in run protection. IE, Run game, you pancake your guy you get a good play – in pass protection, you either block your guy and get an average play, or you dont and get a bad play. Not sure exactly what Ron needs for a “good” play in pass protection – perhaps it’s seeing an elaborate blitz and making the right decision to pick it up ? Because you generally dont flatten anyone when pass protecting.
3 AM Monday morning games all 2010 - that's just dandy !
Its harder to get a good grade on pass plays. Keeping a defender from elevating, putting a defender down or driving a Guy on a screen are the most common ways to get a good rating on a pass play.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 6:16 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Thanks Ron
I guessed as much, but figured it better to ask.
3 AM Monday morning games all 2010 - that's just dandy !
ah, thats a good point
good explanation, Will
"I may be drunk, Miss, but in the morning I will be sober and you will still be ugly"
tackles should have more bad plays
they have to take the edge rusher in a 4-3 and seal LB’s in the 3-4 who are even better atheletes than ends in the 4-3. Guards get run stuffing 4-3 tackles and big noseguards unless they are pulling.
Wait...
How do we KNOW that we could have gotten more for Lynch? If you are citing the Glazier report as fact than there is no way I am on board with that statement.
It doesn’t pass the smell test
Why doubt the report? It has been widely circulated and not been challenged a la the alleged Brady-Moss grooming feud.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 12:43 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
it’s been challenged by people who actually pay attention.
September 28th – Bills listening to offers for Lynch
Oct. 5th – Bills trade Lynch
that’s a full week that we AS FANS know of – could have been longer. the fact that people refuse to accept what is right in their face is sooooooo irritating – seriously – think for yourselves every once in a while. The whole situation was reported and Glazer for whatever reason is either smearing or just wrote a terrible article. I could care less what an NFL official “knew” because we as fans knew it – which means that he wasn’t doing his job if I knew, if you knew it and it was broadcasted on ESPN. Holy mother of hell this topic bothers me
Listen! You smell something?
The way I see it..
I knew Lynch was on the block and so did everyone else. It is criminal negligence as an NFL GM to suddenly say “oh wait” we wanted Lynch too and would have paid handsomely for him. If the fans knew he was up for sale then everyone else did too.
The Packers took a lot of heat from pundits and fans alike for not persuing Lynch. If you go to the Packers board the universal consensus is Lynch was worth a 3rd. This looks like classic CYA.
There is no way on earth Glazier has this right
Again I KNEW he was for sale, so did 31 other GM’s
by blitzboy54 on Oct 12, 2010 12:47 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
Exactly...
they are just covering their arses in regards to their own fan base…like NO and GB.
Act like a sober human being, not a drunk Internet username. -- Brian Galliford
by NorCal BillsFan on Oct 12, 2010 3:48 PM EDT up reply actions
Are you kidding? Another FO guy spinning this his way after the fact does not mean we could have gotten more.
by greysquirrel on Oct 12, 2010 12:54 PM EDT up reply actions
I don't know about widely circulated
So many of these bloggers re-cycle the “reports” from other bloggers.
The Yahoo report specifically which uses Glazers info as his “report”
yeah
That’s how I base all my beliefs. Just make sure they’re widely circulated and not publicly challenged.
You can’t go wrong with that logic…
The darkest hour is upon us.
I wouldn’t characterize it as a belief so much as relying on the media to do what they do. Media guys seem to love calling out other media guys for publishing incorrect stories. I hadn’t seen anything like that regarding Lynch but some have heard something contradictory.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 1:58 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
excellent as per usual - rec'd
Gailey chose to give Howard and Kraig Urbik some live game reps. Once again, he didn’t pay any attention at all to the scoreboard or where the Bills were on the field. This bugs me
I don’t want to hijack this thread – but I want to point something out that I put up in a fanpost a while ago and still beleive to this day.
I think they are trying guys and developing them – if they aren’t performing up to what Gailey and Nix wants then they will get cut. I know some will say you can’t do that during an NFL season – we have to go with what works and the starters.
well – actions speak louder than words – and up until Ralph spoke I said that this was their plan and it seems by looking at what they are doing, hwo they are doing it – that their plan is to get guys reps and have them learn – regardless of situation. The Bills know this roster is devoid of talent – they are trying to fidn guys that are going to produce over hte long haul – not for the short term.
which means we’re going to continue to see tweaks and substitutions at odd times – becuase for all intents and purposes – this is a try out year – whether some wish to beleive it or not.
/end rant and don’t mean to hijack
Listen! You smell something?
by J2 on Oct 12, 2010 12:42 PM EDT reply actions 3 recs
I’m all for developing guys. Give Howard the second half of a blowout. Put Urbik in when the game is decided. How is the line supposed to work together if 40% of it is swapped out at random points in a game? There has to be a better time to develop guys than when the team is in scoring range in a winable game.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 12:46 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
if your point is to ultimately win games this year. I hate say it – but I think they are developing and evaluating guys and really don’t care about timing because they know we stink.
you never want to say they aren’t trying to win – they are – but not at the expense of putting guys in and developing them – that’s what I see at least – and if you look at it that way – it kind of make sense
Listen! You smell something?
J2, I was absolutely going to post the same exact thing. I completely agree with you that this is what Gailey is doing. He knows they suck, he wants every possible game situation in which to evaluate all these players. I think he is also trying to spare Wood (and maybe Bell) some punishment on their bodies since they are coming back from injuries. This is an approach with the long-term in mind. Stinks now for the fans, but could benefit the team immensely.
I just wonder how on earth they can keep Kelsay….
2010 Bills' truth in advertising: "Look out Cleveland, this year we score 6!" - bluecollarbuffalo
by thefourwinds on Oct 13, 2010 12:45 AM EDT up reply actions
it’s like he’s out-thinking himself – Gaily, in his playcalling and personnel shifts.
"Give back some of that money you ain't [expletive] earned!" - Eric Wood
Current song recommendation: The Rolling Stones - "Shine a Light"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Oct 12, 2010 1:28 PM EDT up reply actions
I think we ran the ball until the 4Q. And then I have no problem “abandoning” the run. I also don’t have a problem abandoning the run when on first down we lose yardage (running the ball I might add).
by greysquirrel on Oct 12, 2010 2:05 PM EDT up reply actions
Agree with you here. I was frustrated to see Howard getting bull-rushed into Fitz in the late 3rd or early 4th AND if I remember correctly it was while we were pinned inside our own 20.
I understand wanting to get them meaningful reps (not during garbage time), but would rather it not be while we are in our own or the opponents 20.
building for the future!
love it.
"I may be drunk, Miss, but in the morning I will be sober and you will still be ugly"
I think of this year as a 16 game preseason. They may keep doing it a strategic times to
A. find out who can play when it counts
and
B. To ensure we get the top pick in April.
It could be worse
They could have extended to an 18 game schedule this year – then we’d be the first team in history to rack up 17 or 18 losses. Oh, that and we’d have to watch 2 more life sapping losses than usual !
3 AM Monday morning games all 2010 - that's just dandy !
seriously
thank God its only 16 games!
"I may be drunk, Miss, but in the morning I will be sober and you will still be ugly"
Some of these subs were for Green who was “nicked up” or something. Gailey alose suggested they like to spell Wood and Bell at some point so their bionic legs are fresh in the fourth quarter if we are in need of running out the game. I think this is cute given how far we’ve been from such a scenario. I’m not sure if it’s coach-speak or what.
by greysquirrel on Oct 12, 2010 12:56 PM EDT up reply actions
I think it has to do with them still recovering from injury.
2010 Bills' truth in advertising: "Look out Cleveland, this year we score 6!" - bluecollarbuffalo
by thefourwinds on Oct 13, 2010 12:47 AM EDT up reply actions
agree, and am ok with it
they say they are trying to win games, but they are using the season as an extended pre season.
They will make a move or 2 in FA and Draft really high and try to put a better product on the field next year.
A lot of cuts the offseason
Show me the Baby!
we should of kept incognito
big bad*** football players that maul and destroy are what we need, not good citizens
Hmmm
Maybe a mix of the two, and really a player can be a bada** w/o having major character issues.
Home Of The Never Ending Rebuild (15years and counting)
by buffalobacker on Oct 12, 2010 8:56 PM EDT up reply actions
Marshawn Lynch was shipped off for less compensation than what we could have gotten
Thats new news. Where did you get that info from. Most of the so called experts have stated that we did pretty good considering he is one step away from a long suspension.
It was reported on PFT and elsewhere last week. Other front offices said they would have beaten Seattle’s offer if CHIX had called.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 12:48 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
And they didn’t call Nix because…. they too are grossly incompetent?
by greysquirrel on Oct 12, 2010 12:57 PM EDT up reply actions
Come on Man, Seriously?
Everybody knew Lynch was on the block. So a GM who needs a RB or just wants to get a RB wouldn’t pick up the phone and offer something because Nix didn’t call them first? Really? Does that even make any bit of sense?? You can’t believe that Glazer story.
Ron – eventually, you will learn not to throw these little doo-dad statements into your posts if you ever want the true intent of the post to be discussed. It only took me about 40 months to figure that out. ;)
by Brian Galliford on Oct 12, 2010 12:48 PM EDT up reply actions
Orakpooooooooo!!!! Ngataaaaaaaaa!!!!! Oherrrrrrrrr!!!!!!
"I may be drunk, Miss, but in the morning I will be sober and you will still be ugly"
haha
seriously…
Act like a sober human being, not a drunk Internet username. -- Brian Galliford
by NorCal BillsFan on Oct 12, 2010 3:52 PM EDT up reply actions
Brian, now that is good leadership!!
I hear the Bills are handing out the big bucks for that kind of leadership maybee you should give them a call. You might could out play Kelsay on the field also.
Please base your arguments in provable facts instead of pulling stuff out of your rear. -CanadianBillsFan- This is why talk is cheap because the supply always exceeds the demand.
Is there any potential to add penalties to the charts? I’d think that every 5 yards in penalties is at least worth one ‘bad’ play.
Pretty sure he counts penalties as bad plays.
by greysquirrel on Oct 12, 2010 1:02 PM EDT up reply actions
Penalties during plays are bad plays—even when they aren’t called. False starts are not counted as bad plays because there is no play. False starts can be drive killers. Green was credited with half of a killed drive due to a false start. The reason is that Buffalo would have had first down yardage were it not for the penalty.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 2:02 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Not sure what it means, but the run grades tend to be higher for the right-side, but our YPC are greater for the left side…
A lot of things play into it. First Buffalo pulls a guard often. Second the TE or FB and be on one side or the other. Also, breaking a long run can skew the results to one side or the other.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 2:04 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
It seems like a number of the 10+ yard runs have been designed to the right side, but the RB cuts to the backside because it’s empty. Or maybe it’s designed for the backside to be open.
Or its just a read by the running back.
by greysquirrel on Oct 12, 2010 2:33 PM EDT up reply actions
The running game was abandoned because we found ourselves in bad downage situations due to penalties and negative plays…. 2nd and long/3rd and longs will suck away some of those running plays, but I think Gailey still should have leaned on Fred more. He was on fire for all 12 (ugh) of his carries.
Fred and Spiller combined for the same amount of carries as Jax’s number 2 (Karim)… who, himself, carried less than MJD (19).
I’d suggest the down and distance issues were due to not running on early Downs. Taking a sack on first down really cuts down on the options.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 2:06 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
We ran on first down 3 times in the second half and lost yardage three times. I’m just skeptical of this idea that ex post we would have been better served by running more.
by greysquirrel on Oct 12, 2010 2:07 PM EDT up reply actions
They Are
Haven’t you seen them play? There ramming bad football down fans throats!
Home Of The Never Ending Rebuild (15years and counting)
by buffalobacker on Oct 12, 2010 8:58 PM EDT up reply actions
Thanks again Ron. I have one question on the run stats for you:
Thus far, Bell grades out as our worst run blocker (not counting Urbik and his small sample size). However, runs to the left B and C gaps have been much more successful than runs to the corresponding gaps on the right – at least a full yard/carry difference. Furthermore, the left C is far and away our most successful gap at 5.9 yds/carry. Obviously Bell plays a key roll in outside runs to the left. I acknowledge that the C gap success is more a result of our interior linemen being able to pull effectively, but he nonetheless has to seal off the end or olb lined up across from him. The left B gap avg. on the other hand is much more attributable to Bell – he has to get a push on his assignment to create that hole, and a 4.4 avg. is pretty solid for any team.
My question is how can Bell grade out as the worst run blocker when the gaps he is directly responsible for are the most successful?
Enjoying my annual three months of optimism.
Just seting the edge doesn’t generate a good grade. Driving a defender, putting him down, catching a second defender up in the wash are the sorts of things that stand out. Setting the edge is the minimum expectation while dominating a Guy is what leads to good ratings.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 2:09 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Again...
Bell will never grade high in the run game as he is not a pancake-style blocker, he has good footwork and shields off his guy, Im happy with Bell so far this season and I personally think he will be okay going forward. A few more talented tackles on the team next year will still make me a happy man.
Act like a sober human being, not a drunk Internet username. -- Brian Galliford
by NorCal BillsFan on Oct 12, 2010 3:55 PM EDT up reply actions
Hey Ron.........
Do you run the Bills backers in ABQ? I was on a 6 month project there and met a Ron that runs the club there. Are you one and the same?
Nope. I’m about 90 miles from El Paso and Juarez. And, yes, I do keep the guns loaded and sleep with a pair of 45s and a 10mm.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 2:11 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I'm so steaming p'd offed that Gailey continues to abandon the run.
I asked the question the other day, and someone said they were playing from too far behind. Well, at halftime they were tied and could have dictated the game with more runs. It’s inexcusable and something that Gailey needs to rectify. The weather is going to get worse soon. It’s best to get your RBs ready now for the meat of the season later.
"Give back some of that money you ain't [expletive] earned!" - Eric Wood
Current song recommendation: The Rolling Stones - "Shine a Light"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Oct 12, 2010 1:25 PM EDT reply actions 1 recs
from kaiser in another thread
For the first time all season, Buffalo didn’t abandon the run. Through the first 50+ minutes of the game, Buffalo had thrown 19 passes (plus three sacks and a Fitz scramble) and had run the ball 18 times. You can even throw out the play right before the half and turn it into 22 pass plays and 18 run plays. Buffalo only abandoned the run when they got the ball back with under 7 minutes left, down two scores. They then finished the game with 11 consecutive passes.
12 of Buffalo’s 17 plays on first down before their two late game drives were runs.
And here’s a stat, of those 19 Fitzpatrick pass attempts prior to the late game drives, 11 of them were when Buffalo needed to pick up more than 10 yards to get the first down. That;‘s not 10 or more yards, like on a first and 10. That’s after a loss of some kind leaves the team with more than 10 yards to gain. In addition to those pass attempts, Buffalo threw a pass on a 3rd and 10 and on a 3rd and 7, two obvious pass downs. Steve Johnson’s 3rd quarter TD came on a pass on 3rd and 5 as well.
The Bills really tried to run the ball and aside from not running on every single first down and not running the ball on 2nd and long, they ran as much as they could.
Listen! You smell something?
by J2 on Oct 12, 2010 2:08 PM EDT up reply actions
Looks like the team does better when they run it.........
Yet here we are 5 games into the season the passing attempts dwarf the rushing attempts….
Thats not my definition of “trying to run the ball”
"Oh man, moral victories and pulling confidence from losses, that's crap" -Marcus Stroud
by norcaliangelsfan on Oct 12, 2010 2:14 PM EDT up reply actions
Well, when you are trailing by two scores in the 4Q only a jau-moron would run the ball.
by greysquirrel on Oct 12, 2010 2:35 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s utter insanity to continue doing what we are currently doing and expect winning results. This team is not capable of playing catch up football. Shifting into all out passing mode just kicks us into faster losing mode. The common sense statements you are trying to use don’t seem to apply with this team.
I say damn the score. Run because it is something we can be successful with. Nothing breeds success like success itself. Build a little pride and confidence with doing something well. I would love to see the foundation of a well built team start developing with the strong run game. We’re gonna lose anyways, let’s work on what we want to develop regardless.
I prayed for patience and I'm STILL waiting for an answer
Problem
Can’t be a one dimensional team in the pro’s. Sorry to disagree, but its just not that simple, besides when have we shown the ability this year to run on anyone? Our defense, or lack thereof, makes it necessary to abandon the “never yet achieved”, ball control run offense that we don’t possess. To “pound and ground” requires far more talent than our team possesses. Oh, and this team has tried to run ball far more than you give them credit. Almost 50/50 if I’m not mistaken. I think the offense has actually shown some life, defense has gone the other way!
Home Of The Never Ending Rebuild (15years and counting)
by buffalobacker on Oct 12, 2010 10:58 PM EDT up reply actions
SO Bell has about 3 more games
To get his scores up to the high 70’s. If he doesn’t I give up on him.
The player I would like least at #9 would be my sister’s cat, Captain Creamsicle. She does have a great work ethic and agility, but I’m really concerned that at 9 lbs., she’s too small to play safety in the NFL. She also bites way too often on play action and is easily distracted by someone waving string in the crowd. Lastly, her wonderlic score was pretty awful, answering "meow meow meow" for most of the questions- Dr. Brackish Okun
As NorCal pointed out above – Bell’s isn’t a mauler – he’s not going to get pancakes or drive defenders off the line of scrimmage so it’s tough for him to earn “Good” scores based on Ron’s criteria. Also, I think only 1 of the sacks listed for him is actually his; pretty sure that 2 of them were Meredith when he was subbed in during the first 2 games – correct me if i’m wrong.
In my opinion Bell is doing OK. He’s no where near the worst starter on the team and although we definitely need tackle help, I really don’t see anyone in next years draft that has a prayer of winning the LT job from him. I’d put 3 linebacker positions, DE and NT, ahead of LT in the next draft. Seriously our OLBs are shameful – if Luck doesn’t come out I might consider Ayers for our first pick and make a move for Ponder later.
Enjoying my annual three months of optimism.
out OTs arent shameful?
Its horrible how little time our QBs have to throw when pressure is coming from the edge. You throw in the penalties between Green and Bell – in critical situations – and its an absolute atrocity out there between them.
I agree our OLBs are shameful, probably more shameful, but OTs are right behind them.
"I may be drunk, Miss, but in the morning I will be sober and you will still be ugly"
I think our LB play is far and away the worst aspect of the team. Their inability to stop the run AND defend the pass is simply awful to behold. At least the Tampa 2 had the pass part more or less figured out. Of course, that version of the defense didn’t feature Kelsay dropping 30 yards into ‘coverage’.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
Yeah, Green is definitely shameful, and the Tackle situation is bleak, but I don’t see why everyone rips on Bell the way they do. He’s coming back from an injury and on top of that he’s improved over last year from what i’ve seen. He’s playing better than Jason and Andre Smith and about on par with Monroe: all top 10 picks in 09. Obviously this is relative but we should be happy about that fact. Regardless, Bell is our starting LT and I see very little chance of Nix or Gailey having an opportunity to upgrade that spot any time soon.
Enjoying my annual three months of optimism.
Agreed...
nice post
Act like a sober human being, not a drunk Internet username. -- Brian Galliford
by NorCal BillsFan on Oct 13, 2010 7:12 PM EDT up reply actions
Nope. Bell gave up sacks on passes 3 and 32 against Miami. Meredith played passes 15-22. Bell gave up a sack on pass 2 against Green Bay while Meredith played passes 17-20. Those 3 sacks are Bell’s.
I’m disappointed in Bell’s run blocking. His pass blocking hasn’t been great but it’s not abysmal either. Bell can certainly improve—he is getting back into shape after not being able to participate fully in the offseason conditioning program.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
Ron
Thanks again for your time. It’s painful to watch a game once and in real time. To watch tiny bits and pieces for this breakdown must be excruciating.
What we call our despair is often only the painful eagerness of unfed hope.
I can’t speak for Ron, but I can speak for myself; aside from just being ridiculously time-consuming (Ron’s lucky in that he can fast forward through the D if he wants), it’s actually EASIER to watch it at this level of detail.
by Brian Galliford on Oct 12, 2010 1:46 PM EDT up reply actions
I agree. It also helps to watch with it on mute.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 2:12 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Yes. Especially if Randy Cross is part of the team calling the game.
by Brian Galliford on Oct 12, 2010 2:24 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
Double Standard
You openly doubt that Gailey was telling the truth about Green being ‘banged up,’ but you blindly believe Jay Glazier?
Nice work on the O line grading, but the op-ed portion is off-putting.
You and Brian think rotating O-lineman is a bad idea (and in Brian’s words “stupid.”) So which O-lineman do you see as worthy of holding an unquestioned job on this team?
We were amazed by Wood coming back from his broken leg in time for the season, but now it’s a crime to spell the guy for a few reps in the effort to build depth.
I think this is one of the least questionable areas of Gailey’s decisions so far, and it’s strange that you guys are making a deal of it.
The darkest hour is upon us.
Y’all (not you, the population in general) seem to gripe about the O-Line on a daily basis, yet the fact that the coaching staff is deliberately working AGAINST the starting five “gelling” is never talked about. That’s why I think it’s stupid – it’s kind of hard for these guys to get used to each other if they’re busy waiting to get pulled out of the lineup.
by Brian Galliford on Oct 12, 2010 2:00 PM EDT up reply actions 3 recs
I just like to gripe about the HC...........
"Oh man, moral victories and pulling confidence from losses, that's crap" -Marcus Stroud
by norcaliangelsfan on Oct 12, 2010 2:15 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
o-line
I think that as the season goes on, Bell and Wood will need to be spelled less and less. Wood has made a great recovery from a catastrophic injury. It’s amazing he’s playing, but let’s not play him/them into the ground.
As for when they are subbed out, you can gripe about the starters being pulled on a series when they have great field position, but would it be any better to rest them when we get the ball inside our own 20? If you wait for the “perfect” scenario to sub them out, it may never come.
I woulda thot Moorman spelled our O-linemen enough.
"This is a tough gayem for tough peepole." -- Chan Gailey
"The Bills will be bad, but Chan Gailey can fake it pretty good." --Jason Cole before the 2010 season.
by Backup to Farve's Backup on Oct 12, 2010 3:14 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
True
But I can see the logic in both systems. The obvious is “gelling”, working with a player and knowing his strengths and weaknesses. On the other side of argument we have fresh players worked into line-up on a rotational basis. The more I think about it I start to think Chan’s playing “russian roulette” with the line, trying to find a permanent solution. Its like he’s treating season like a extended pre-season, not sure if thats wise,but I can’t come up with a logical reason for rotating line in/out. It’s not like we have talent in spades across our OL, and their interchangeable. When I played ball, we played whole game. Maybe pros don’t need to get “feel” for game like I did. Do other teams rotate lineman like Bills are doing?
Home Of The Never Ending Rebuild (15years and counting)
by buffalobacker on Oct 12, 2010 2:26 PM EDT up reply actions
working AGAINST the starting five "gelling"
Unless they know how bad Bell and Green are and dont care much for allowing them to gel with the real talent in the interior.
"I may be drunk, Miss, but in the morning I will be sober and you will still be ugly"
Sorry, poz, didn’t see your comment before I posted my reply below. Mine was a bit more generic, but the same thought. Gailey apparently doesn’t want dead wood gelling with what talent is there.
2010 Bills' truth in advertising: "Look out Cleveland, this year we score 6!" - bluecollarbuffalo
by thefourwinds on Oct 13, 2010 12:58 AM EDT up reply actions
yea exactly
I wouldn’t want them gelling either to be honest.
"I may be drunk, Miss, but in the morning I will be sober and you will still be ugly"
the fact that the coaching staff is deliberately working AGAINST the starting five "gelling" is never talked about. That’s why I think it’s stupid – it’s kind of hard for these guys to get used to each other if they’re busy waiting to get pulled out of the lineup
It seems fairly obvious – Gailey doesn’t want these guys getting used to working with each other until he figures out who is worth keeping. THEN he will work on them getting consistent together.
2010 Bills' truth in advertising: "Look out Cleveland, this year we score 6!" - bluecollarbuffalo
by thefourwinds on Oct 13, 2010 12:56 AM EDT up reply actions
Front office types and coaches are seemingly paid to lie (Edwards is our QB….McNabb wont be traded….I wont take the Alabama job) while journalists are paid to be accurate. I have no love for Glazed or Florio or Blitzer or Couric. They don’t always get everything right (Bradshaw still lives even if Florio wishes he didn’t.) They are what we have and generally delight in calling each other out when they’re wrong.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 2:20 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
idont know what the sports media r like in the usa
but over here what they call fact is often rumour or specultion
also managers and players do like vto spread mis information, i take everything they say with a very large pinch of salt
The past is fixed, the future is unknown, try dealing with the present!
"You are drunk, sir!" "And you are ugly, madame! But I will be sober in the morning!"
gregeng, over here, the media are paid to increase ratings, circulation, etc. Accuracy is a secondary concern.
2010 Bills' truth in advertising: "Look out Cleveland, this year we score 6!" - bluecollarbuffalo
by thefourwinds on Oct 13, 2010 1:00 AM EDT up reply actions
Yeah, but Glazer is simply ‘reporting’ what one of your potential liars told him. It’s not a scoop, its doing another FO’s bidding.
by greysquirrel on Oct 12, 2010 2:37 PM EDT up reply actions 1 recs
ummmmm...
while journalists are paid to be accurate.
Glazier works for FOX.
The darkest hour is upon us.
FOX isnt any more guilty than any other news station.
"I may be drunk, Miss, but in the morning I will be sober and you will still be ugly"
Yeah, let’s nip this little tangent in the bud. :)
by Brian Galliford on Oct 12, 2010 6:47 PM EDT up reply actions
journalists are paid to be accurate.
Ron, sorry to burst your bubble, but this is about as rose-colored glasses as anyone could have. The media, in all forms, are paid to increase ratings, however they are measured.
2010 Bills' truth in advertising: "Look out Cleveland, this year we score 6!" - bluecollarbuffalo
by thefourwinds on Oct 13, 2010 12:59 AM EDT up reply actions
And just for the record, I have worked in both the newspaper world and the TV world.
2010 Bills' truth in advertising: "Look out Cleveland, this year we score 6!" - bluecollarbuffalo
by thefourwinds on Oct 13, 2010 1:02 AM EDT up reply actions
On a more substantive note, I dislike shuffling in offensive linemen randomly. If Wood needs a break in a game put Urbik in when the game is decided…not when Buffalo has real hope of winning. Failing that how about giving Urbik the first two series? Then Wood is in for the rest of the game and particularly when it might count most. Why not give Howard the entire second half at RT?
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 2:25 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
I question the strategy as well, but he can’t know in the 2nd and 3rd quarters that he is going to be getting blown out in the 4th and can just try these guys then. If it’s close he wants fresh legs.
But at this point I’d rather be close in the fourth and lose because wood and bell are tired.
Me thinks Howard has been getting worked in and will eventually see more time than Green. Anyone who says we can’t get worse wasn’t paying attention to Meredith.
by greysquirrel on Oct 12, 2010 3:16 PM EDT up reply actions
Although I am uncomfortable about the substitutions....
I can kind of see what he’s trying to do. It’s like a method to his madness. However I will say this regarding the subbing of the O-line, injuries have been kept down. If a guy is tired he’s more likely to get injured.
If there an injury there’s no doubt their experience will help them. I just don’t want their reps to cost games in the meantime. Or maybe I should get on the number one pick. Bandwagon?
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 6:20 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
trent edwards
I was one of his biggest supporters up until the end, but I have no problem with them releasing him the way they did. I think it’s pretty clear his teammates lost faith in him, even if they don’t come right out and say it. To keep him on the team, and then have him come in if Fitzy gets hurt, well … you’d be able to listen from home and hear the team deflate. Better to move on without him and younger QBs a chance.
Yeah the team (well offense) just seems to be much better with Fitzy at the helm.
"Oh man, moral victories and pulling confidence from losses, that's crap" -Marcus Stroud
by norcaliangelsfan on Oct 12, 2010 2:37 PM EDT up reply actions
Thanks for the great work Ron...
we can’t say it enough. As you know, this is just about everyone’s favorite re-occuring series of posts.
Act like a sober human being, not a drunk Internet username. -- Brian Galliford
by NorCal BillsFan on Oct 12, 2010 4:01 PM EDT reply actions
Absolutely agree
These are the kind of posts and threads that I came to this board years ago for. Thanks for the hard work Ron.
I remember the days of Brian getting blasted on the Bills board and K being there too. Glad I took his invite when he started this one up. Unfortunately the excessive horse-kicking that made the old place become unbearable is starting to surface here. It’s probably a by-product of the larger following now, but I will excuse myself from that sociological experiment.
We have completed the first five games without injury to the OLine.
That’s an accomplishment in its self. Currently, the state of the team is improving offfensively and struggling defensively. Howard and Urbik are very young players and need PT experience in case there is injury. At the same time they are playing for a roster spot on this team going forward. I would be worried if I was Green, seems to be the weakest link, just like Ellis and Meredith, they had plenty of opportunity to impress the FO, it didn’t work. Seems like a huge work in progress. Honestly, I am looking forward to the last eight games of the season. Still the biggest thing on the offensive line would be for them to stay healthy anyway Chan can make that happen, it is important to allow them to get a full season of experience together as a unit. Then truely evaluate them over time.
YOU ARE OUT of you kuku fufu mine craker laker Flaber baber FUNKI chunki brain. WE want to winn every year -- abayarde
Good point about the health of the line. Lets knock on wood (but not Wood cause that would trigger a seizure knowing Buffalo’s luck) and hope it continues. I will happily concede that playing time for the scrubs may pay dividends down the line. An injury could occur at any moment and in amazingly improbable ways….like that LB draft pick of Baltimore’s.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
by Ron From NM on Oct 12, 2010 6:24 PM EDT via mobile up reply actions
Ron
Great analysis as per usual, thank you for taking the time – it’s nice to get some closer insight – even if it’s just on one position.
Am I right to assume that the passing grades are lower than running grades because it’s tougher to have a “stand out good play” in pass protection. My assumption is that you call pancakes and 2nd level plays as good running plays. However I am uncertain of your criteria for “good” pass block plays. Is it somethign like recognising a difficult blitz and sucessfully picking it up ? Because it’s sure hard to pancake a guy is pass blocking. I realise for tackles it could be simply blocking a guy so he ends up 5 yards behind the QB, however for interior linemen it must be tough to get a good play rating (unless they block 2 guys)
3 AM Monday morning games all 2010 - that's just dandy !
AKA The "double-raven"
It must be tough to get a good play rating (unless they block 2 guys)
Act like a sober human being, not a drunk Internet username. -- Brian Galliford
by NorCal BillsFan on Oct 12, 2010 7:10 PM EDT up reply actions
It’s harder to stand out on pass plays than on run plays. Pass plays are often more along the lines of pass-fail than an opportunity for the lineman to impose his will on a defender. It does happen; Levitre is the most likely of the linemen to stop a defender from elevating and thus clutter up a passing lane.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
Wow, you have had to answer this question three times in this post alone…
2010 Bills' truth in advertising: "Look out Cleveland, this year we score 6!" - bluecollarbuffalo
by thefourwinds on Oct 13, 2010 1:04 AM EDT up reply actions
Can someone do notes from the D front seven?
I want someone to look at #90…please tell me how he performed? I deleted my copy of the game in disgust…
Hang in there. More early next week.
by Brian Galliford on Oct 12, 2010 9:30 PM EDT up reply actions
Giving up on the run
I think this article shows fairly conclusively what many people including myself believe that Chan is giving up on the run too early in games.
Also, I know our defense has been horrid in recent weeks but I’d bet that they have had more minutes on the field than any other defense in the league this season which doesn’t help matters.
Rec'd for the usual great content, but love this line
Gailey told Chris Brown of BuffaloBills.com that Howard was in because Green was banged up. Uh-huh. Just like Edwards was the starting QB for the team and Buffalo won’t trade Lynch because the team is dedicated to stacking talented players.
I am so glad the “Chix are straight shooters” talk has died down……was pretty sure they were full of sh!t from the beginning.
The Chan Plan – I believe in cutting and trading my starters. This is a tough game when you don’t have any idea what to do with your players. We have not been where we needed to be in the last few years, and I only know one way to get worse….cut, trade, or release your players for little to no compensation….and if they really suck, sign them to an extension.
The NIx plan - "We've got to dig our way out"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VjPNKc0VsU
Well, duplicty does seem to be part of the job description for front office types and coaches. I understand when it involves things like the draft; there are times where it’s to your competitive advantage to say one thing while planning another. I don’t see that being the case with things like team identify. The Jets are proudly and unabashadly a run-first team….and it works out just fine for them. Teams—even good run defense teams like the Vikings—know it’s coming and still can’t shut it down.
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
Agreed.....I don't have a problem with them being duplicitous
I just never saw them as the straight shooters many seemed to want to believe they were.
The Chan Plan – I believe in cutting and trading my starters. This is a tough game when you don’t have any idea what to do with your players. We have not been where we needed to be in the last few years, and I only know one way to get worse….cut, trade, or release your players for little to no compensation….and if they really suck, sign them to an extension.
The NIx plan - "We've got to dig our way out"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VjPNKc0VsU
I think it's comparative
I would say both of them are more straight forward then anyone we’ve had in quite some time.
Nix, by nature of his job, is less so, but I think Chan usually calls a spade a spade. Would you hear Jauron or Mularkey make any of the blunt assessments of his team and players? Not a chance.
Question
Is honesty always the best policy? I’m thinking being aloof, or less than truthful was part of job description. Did you expect monks to become our next GM and HC? It’s part of the game, can’t believe your attacking their honesty! Geesh.. Running low on material?
Home Of The Never Ending Rebuild (15years and counting)
by buffalobacker on Oct 12, 2010 11:06 PM EDT up reply actions
what would be considered good grades
It seems like Uncle Jesse and Cooter have a plan. I wish Waylon Jennings was still around to be narrator.
On pass plays I’d be delighted with anything above 74.5% with few killed plays and sacks surrendered (which goes hand in hand with that kind of grade). On run plays I would love to see numbers north of 80%. When I’ve had players grade out in the 80s it was clear even when viewing casually that that lineman was having a great game.
Levitre was in the ballpark on both scores against the Pats and Jets. Ditto for Wood against the Pats and Jags. It’s no surprise that Buffalo’s best game (Pats) featured a pair of linemen who graded out well (79.6 run/75.6 pass Levitre—-81.0 run/75.0 pass Wood).
It can always get worse. Let me tell you how.
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