Grading the Bills: Game 16

Needless to say, the season finale was quite depressing.  With 6 turnovers and several key players out, the Bills truly played like the 4-12 team record showed today losing 38-7 to the Jets.  But the silver lining is that the Bills have made progress this season, and will have the 3rd overall draft pick in the upcoming draft.  This may be yet another losing season full of disappointments, but ultimately, change is underway; change for a better future in Buffalo.

Rushing Offense: F

Partly due to the fact the Bills would have little impact in the passing game, the run game was yet again stuffed.  Jackson missed out on 1000 yards only able to nab 35 on 13 carries with Spiller averaging worse. Total rushing yards on the day was only 37 compared to the Jets 276, enough said. 

Passing Offense: F

With the starting QB out (Fitz) and the now number 2 and 3 WRs out (Nelson and Jones), the Bills struggled in their aerial attack.  Brian Brohm through less than 50% completions and 3 picks while getting sacked 3 times.  Levi Brown then stepped in the final series ending with another interception.  Stevie Johnson led the team in receptions as usual with 5 catches for 72 yards.  Meanwhile Roosevelt (the #2 WR with Hubbard the other only healthy WR available) managed 3 grabs for 30 yards.  Blocking needs improvement.  

Rushing Defense: F

I hate to sound repetitive, but the run defense was once again abysmal.  The Jets ran for over 270 yards and two touchdowns (without LT playing).  It should be interesting next season when Shawne Merriman takes the field (uninjured) next year and how this impacts the team.

Passing Defense: B-

Going up against second and third string quarterbacks, the Bills secondary was mediocre.  On the bright side, Jarius Byrd finally got his first interception of the year and returned it for a touchdown.  Less than desired was that two touchdowns were given up again in the air. 

Special Teams: B-

Brian Moorman had his first decent game in a while averaging almost 50 yards a punt, while Lindell and kick coverage units saw little action.  While Spiller has yet to establish himself consistently in returning kickoffs, he had two big punt returns in the game.  Kick coverage was good, but punt coverage was lacking.

Coaching: D-

Having several shortcomings going into a game without any meaning, Chan let the younger players have the field to see where improvements are needed, and yes they are needed.  While the game clearly did not pan well against a playoff bound Jets organization, Gailey inadvertently helped the Bills secure a lower draft slot.  

Go Bills and optimistically yours, DynamicHero22