Buffalo Bills Quarterbacks: State Of The Bills Roster
by Brian Galliford on Jan 6, 2011 10:30 AM EST
in Buffalo Bills News
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PrintThis post is part of a series entitled State of the Bills Roster, in which we're breaking down and evaluating the Buffalo Bills on a position-by-position basis. If you're confused about the number and letter classification appearing after each player's name, read this post. You can check out all previous installments of this series here.
I don't remember a season in which expectations surrounding Buffalo's quarterback situation were lower. After GM Buddy Nix neglected to upgrade the position in his first test with free agency and the NFL Draft in his new role, the Bills entered camp with what was advertised as a three-way starting quarterback competition, but in reality was simply Trent Edwards getting the first shot to start, then securing the job with adequate pre-season play. Needless to say, when Edwards lost his job after two horrific games, things appeared to be unfolding precisely as we expected them to.
The man who replaced Edwards, however, surpassed expectations not just for giving the Bills competent quarterback play, but for giving them the best quarterback play they've seen for the better part of a decade - praise which should, of course, be taken with a grain of salt. Our breakdown of Buffalo's quarterback situation lies after the jump.
Right now, the Bills have three quarterbacks in their organization.
Ryan Fitzpatrick (2-B). Fitzpatrick took over as Buffalo's starter in Week 3, and ended up making 13 consecutive starts before a knee injury brought his season to a premature end. In those 13 starts, Fitzpatrick led the Bills to a 4-9 record, completed 57.8 percent of his passes, threw for 3,000 yards and 23 touchdowns, was sacked 24 times, and was responsible for 20 turnovers (15 interceptions, five lost fumbles).
Buffalo hadn't had a 3,000-yard passer since 2006, when J.P. Losman was somehow able to accomplish the feat, and hadn't had a quarterback throw for 20 or more touchdowns since 2004, when Drew Bledsoe put up 24. On the flip side, the Bills hadn't had a quarterback toss 15 interceptions in a season since '04, when Bledsoe threw 16.
On a team that is really hurting for top-flight talent, Fitzpatrick did what any respected backup quarterback would do (let's not forget that Fitzpatrick started the year in that capacity): he gave his team a chance to win, and he allowed his offensive playmakers to make plays. At times, he was brilliant (see an overtime loss to Baltimore and a road win over Cincinnati). At other times, he was awful (see game-clinching interceptions against New England, Kansas City and Chicago, and a five-turnover performance against New England).
Bills head coach Chan Gailey seemed to admit that turnovers were going to be a part of any game Fitzpatrick quarterbacks, even while endorsing him as his starter entering the 2011 season. We know what Fitzpatrick is good at - he reads defenses well (though he can be duped from time to time), he diagnoses blitzes and makes great line call adjustments, and he's got enough gunslinger in him to take a few chances to hit the big play. That gunslinger mentality, however, will always make him a boom-or-bust proposition at quarterback - and his limited physical skill set will always be a hindrance, as well.
Still, there is a degree of reliability in Fitzpatrick that the Bills have not had in quite a long time.
Brian Brohm (4-F). For a second consecutive season, Brohm made one appearance in a Bills game - and for a second consecutive season, he was awful in that game. Gailey defended Brohm after he turned the ball over four times in a brutal season finale, saying that he was doing things correctly, but couldn't adjust to the speed of the game. Here's the truth of the matter: Brohm was a colossal flop in Green Bay, and has done absolutely nothing in Buffalo to make anyone believe that there is some untapped potential that could eventually be reached. If there's a Bills quarterback that's in serious danger of losing his job with this team, it's most definitely Brohm.
Levi Brown (3-D). A seventh-round pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, Brown was cut by the Bills in September, but re-signed as the scout team quarterback when Edwards was jettisoned. Two things are abundantly clear about Brown (24 this March): he has the best natural talent of any quarterback on the roster - this guy has an incredible arm - and he's also got a massive amount of work to do in the classroom before he's remotely ready to see playing time in the regular season. His arm alone will earn him another look as a developmental prospect next summer.
Contract situations to monitor: Fitzpatrick is entering the final year of a three-year deal he signed in March 2009; another strong season could lead to a lucrative extension. Brohm will be a restricted free agent, regardless of the CBA, as he's only been in the league for three years.
Outlook: We don't own a crystal ball, so the only likelihoods we're comfortable championing at this point are that Fitzpatrick will open the 2011 season as the starter, and that Brown will get another look as a developmental prospect next summer. Beyond that, we also know that the team doesn't have a long-term solution at the position. Whether or not nix and Gailey pursue that long-term answer this off-season - or, more importantly, whether they view Fitzpatrick in that light - will play an absolutely critical role in how the team goes about upgrading its football team this spring.
Possible Acquisition: If the Bills decide to add a quarterback, it will be a person that they can groom behind Fitzpatrick to eventually start, or a person that they feel can be a better backup than they had this past season. It's not a lock, however, that the Bills do anything at the position.
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but how does this affect Maybin? I kiidd, I kiiid.
“It’s not a lock, however, that the Bills do anything at the position.”
It’s probably true but I hate this statement. I don’t Fitz is the answer long term. It’s be nice to see another developmental prospect, a QB to groom or even a FA acquisition in this area.
So
We’re going with “MAYBIN!” as the “FIRST!” of this board, right? Will we also follow the AVClub and demand that any firsters get AIDS (Yeah, it sounds obnoxious, but this is the internet)
All QBs want maybin on the other side
keeps the Jersey clean
"It's not a lock, however, that the Bills do anything at the position."
(FACEPALM)
But….But….But….Ralph Wilson himself said the Bills needed a QB!
Eh, nevermind. I could try to argue how shortsighted it would be to not address the QB position at all this year….but knowing the Bills…they don’t always see things the same way I do.
Great article though! I look forward to these positional breakdowns….you guys always do a fantastic job in this series. Even Aaron Maybin agrees…..
"WHEN THE WAGON BLASTER TAKES OFF dont try to get in. THE SPACESES ARE LIMITED FOR WINNING ATTITUDE GODZILLA IS COMING GET READY" - abayarde
Wait a second.....
not even the Bills could neglect to add a “Franchise QB in waiting” type player for the second year in a row, right? (Levi Brown does not fit this description.)
I think I refuse to believe this. I just cannot see them neglecting to add a young, talented QB to sit and learn behind Fitz. Even if it’s not a first or second round selection, although I hate the idea of picking a QB after the second round.
I’m not going to go as far as saying I could no longer root for the Bills but….if they go into the 2011 season with Ryan Fitzpatrick, Brian Brohm and Levi Brown as the only QBs on the roster…..well, it would be hard for me to truthfully say that the Bills were a competant organization and were trying to be successful.
"WHEN THE WAGON BLASTER TAKES OFF dont try to get in. THE SPACESES ARE LIMITED FOR WINNING ATTITUDE GODZILLA IS COMING GET READY" - abayarde
by StroudFanClub on Jan 6, 2011 10:52 AM EST up reply actions
I just cannot see them neglecting to add a young, talented QB to sit and learn behind Fitz.
Really? You see zero scenarios in which they don’t like any of the rookies aside from the one they can’t get, so they just sign a cheap vet to replace Brohm for a year?
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Jan 6, 2011 10:57 AM EST up reply actions
Is next year supposed to be an even better QB class? Last year was weak, but this year seems like there are going to be options. If they can’t get something they want this year, I’d start to wonder if they are gonna like anyone ever.
by greysquirrel on Jan 6, 2011 11:00 AM EST up reply actions
Nope, not for the second year in a row. What legit reason could they give?
See my post below…you can get away with saying “we didn’t love any of the prospects this year” for one draft, especially a draft considered by many to be lacking quality QB prospects….
But two drafts in a row? And especially in a draft like 2011, where you have multiple top QB prospects, with different skillsets, and you’ve had the ability to scout them for at least a year? No way.
How about this: Literally? Yes, I could see them not adding anyone. It would be a complete shock to me, but anything is possible in a literal sense.
But if I am forecasting? And I am giving Buddy Nix credit for being a smart football mind? No way. Just no way I will believe they go another year without adding a “QB of the future”.
"WHEN THE WAGON BLASTER TAKES OFF dont try to get in. THE SPACESES ARE LIMITED FOR WINNING ATTITUDE GODZILLA IS COMING GET READY" - abayarde
by StroudFanClub on Jan 6, 2011 11:03 AM EST up reply actions
Yes, I could see them not adding anyone.
See? Not that hard. :)
Please note that I said it’s “not a lock.” In no way should that imply “they won’t.”
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Jan 6, 2011 11:17 AM EST up reply actions
Talk about taking the part of my answer that you liked! haha
Hey, I never said that statement was wrong. Yes, I can see them not add anyone. It’s a possibility, no matter how small I think it is. I just think it would be terribly misguided and indefinsible.
"WHEN THE WAGON BLASTER TAKES OFF dont try to get in. THE SPACESES ARE LIMITED FOR WINNING ATTITUDE GODZILLA IS COMING GET READY" - abayarde
by StroudFanClub on Jan 6, 2011 11:22 AM EST up reply actions
I agree with you, by the way.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Jan 6, 2011 11:26 AM EST up reply actions
I think they need to consider SOMEONE in the draft, and someone before the picks get cute late in the process. At some point their not liking anyone enough could cause people to question just how serious they are about building a winner. That is, if things stay pretty much on the same losing course they’ve been on.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 12:25 PM EST up reply actions
I don’t give a whip about perception, if you mean how I think the team is viewed outside the organization. The perception I am concerned about is that the risk isn’t worth it taking a marquee-position player high in the draft. They cannot honestly say it will always be better to stand pat and work with whoever falls in their laps. I want to see an aggressive franchise, never satisfied by stats alone.
I do realize they haven’t had this high a pick since Mike Williams. But there are opportunities to give up picks to move on up to the east side.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 12:47 PM EST up reply actions
TAT noted that if they win games its fine that they don’t address QB. But if they aren’t improving in the win-column and we didn’t take a good shot at getting a prospect in the fold, we are really have to question what we are doing.
by greysquirrel on Jan 6, 2011 12:56 PM EST up reply actions
Exactly. Thanks for clearing that up for me.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:00 PM EST up reply actions
Have to lighten up a little and have faith
The Bills brass have a lot better idea of what they have and what they need than any fan does. Just relax the draft is months away.
I fully expect them to neglect QB again
But at the same time, in doing so, I would be somewhat shocked and unhappy. At some point they have to “like” a top QB prospect. It just better be this year. Delaying this just delays the rebuilding, which this franchise cannot really afford.
~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 Jan 6, 2011 12:42 PM EST via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
I agree with this except for one caveat, if we see decent improvement with the guys they do draft I can excuse it. But if its more of the same and no QB, WTH are we doing?
by greysquirrel on Jan 6, 2011 12:57 PM EST up reply actions
If it keeps up like that, local fans will let them know there’s a problem.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:02 PM EST up reply actions
For example, lets say another team is desperate and wants a QB, we trade back and pick up a few picks. We draft a great RT prospect like that Wisconsin tackle. And some linebackers. That might make a big impact on our team next year and I would ahve to give them a pass. But if they do that and the wheels come off for a second straight season… maybe they shouldnt get to figure out the next move.
by greysquirrel on Jan 6, 2011 12:59 PM EST up reply actions
The nicest thing about trading for the #1 slot is they can take any player they want. There’d be no Denver trading back in to grab a QB before they think the Bills might take him.
The team is so close to the bacon. So close that I wonder if Ralph’s ready to just make sure his team gets where he wants them to be in the draft.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:04 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Bacon-wrapped prunes then?
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:18 PM EST up reply actions
Prune
Up that Bacon Ralph!!
All hail the victory lighter!!
by brendar of the bills people on Jan 6, 2011 6:07 PM EST up reply actions
Unfortunately
There’s probably a 0.0001% chance of trading up to #1 at this point. Carolina already said they’d take Luck and not trade the pick as long as he declares.
~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 Jan 6, 2011 1:31 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
I know. That should just mean Wilson and Nix/Gailey try even harder. =)
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:38 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Stroud FC: Does Aaron Maybin even know what a fantastic job is?
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 12:42 PM EST up reply actions
haha, maybe not, but I thought I was the first post and thus had to work in Maybin somehow
"WHEN THE WAGON BLASTER TAKES OFF dont try to get in. THE SPACESES ARE LIMITED FOR WINNING ATTITUDE GODZILLA IS COMING GET READY" - abayarde
by StroudFanClub on Jan 6, 2011 1:02 PM EST up reply actions
A for effort!
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:04 PM EST up reply actions
Does Aaron Maybin even know what a fantastic job is?
Are you kidding? It would be almost impossible to have a more fantastic job than Maybin has – get paid millions of dollars every year to be inactive. ;-)
Never judge a subordinate's mentality by what his boss does. -- simonpure
I’m so glad someone finally found the bait!
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 3:19 PM EST up reply actions
Fitz probably injured in 2nd N.E. game
It seems clear to me that Fitz simply had to have been injured for part of the last game against the Pats — that severe knee injury did not develop on Monday — and if that is so it must also have had an impact on his play. He definitely IS prone to turnovers — especially when the game is on the line and he is trying too hard to make something happen. However, five picks and two fumbles in one game is not typical for him and probably at least four or five of those turnovers can be chalked up to the injury. If one makes that adjustment in his favor then he becomes responsible for around 15 turnovers vs. 23 TD’s, which is not a great ratio but also not a terrible one.
The biggest question about him is whether or not he has any further upside. My own guess is that there is probably not that much left that we can expect — he is likely near his peak — but it’s also important to keep in mind that he has surprised us before. Next season will answer the question for sure if he stays healthy.
Fitz is pretty much the ideal placeholder at QB.
But at some point the Bills are going to have to acquire a ‘franchise QB’, and that’s almost certainly going to have to be through the draft (I think Kolb is the only other realistic option, and his stock seems to be dropping).
This draft presents a lot of options, even with Luck almost certainly being out of the picture. With the quantity of QBs that could go in round 1 this has the potential to be a 1983 / 2004 class of QBs. If the Bills don’t do it this year it’s hard to see when they will do it.
by Pistol on Jan 6, 2011 10:50 AM EST reply actions 1 recs
Nice write up.
Did Nix neglect upgrading the QB position or were there just a dearth of options? We keep knocking them for not upgrading the QB, but I can’t figure out what we could have done in the off-season that looks like an upgrade at QB at this point. It turns out a guy on the squad might have been our best option.
As far as not adding anyone, unless Brohm or Brown is impressing Gailey behind the scenes, the FO needs to do something. As Brian has argued before, developing a QB takes time and finding that prospect as early as possible is important. If they didn’t bring in a top prospect last year because they didn’t like their choices, they really have to do something in a year where there are some top prospects. Worst case scenario we end up with a tradeable asset. in a few years (Fitz or the new guy).
Agreed. If we are assuming that Nix did not love any of the QB prospects in last year's draft enough to select one...
then that reasoning can hold for one draft. But two in a row? Especially with the amount and skillset variety of the prospects in this years draft? I just will not believe that as a legit reason for not selecting a QB in this year’s draft.
"WHEN THE WAGON BLASTER TAKES OFF dont try to get in. THE SPACESES ARE LIMITED FOR WINNING ATTITUDE GODZILLA IS COMING GET READY" - abayarde
by StroudFanClub on Jan 6, 2011 10:56 AM EST up reply actions
The hottest names on the free agent market got benched (McNabb, Campbell) while Clausen struggled mightily.
You can't have CHANGE without CHAN.
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by MattRichWarren on Jan 6, 2011 11:58 AM EST up reply actions
I don’t think we fans have given enough credit to the front office for passing on Clausen. It was obvious they were concerned. Now, it’s not certain he’ll be a flop, but he clearly would have been a bad move for the team right now.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 12:12 PM EST up reply actions
I think it is precisely the reason
that seemingly a lot of rumblers aren’t on Nix’s back a bit more about the draft last season. I think most are agreed that picks 1, 2 and 3 haven’t shown much yet but then again neither have any of the alternatives so I for one am happy to wait a season or two more and see where this organisation is heading under the new FO.
by Billsdownunder on Jan 6, 2011 12:20 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
This is exactly how I feel. It’s a push. For now…
by greysquirrel on Jan 6, 2011 12:24 PM EST up reply actions
It’s a push, yes. If they continue to twiddle their thumbs over jumping to get a high-ranking QB and the team continues to forget how to win, then it’s time for them to push onward with a new mission statement.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 12:28 PM EST up reply actions
i still woulda liked that Cody in the second.
Thought that was the obvious pick. Almost Orakpo round 2. Picking the developmental guy instead of the physical monster. I’m giving Troup the benefit of the doubt thou. For now.
MAYBE this will break the mold , we need to come to play sunday and this year we will not SURRENDER TO KNOW ONE THIS IS BUFFALOOO Godzilla nation
-abayarde
by uPitt_BillsFan on Jan 6, 2011 1:08 PM EST up reply actions
How do you know Clausen would have been the same with the Bills that he was with the Panthers?
I mean no one saw what Fitz was going to do before this year………….so to assume it would have been the same Jimmy Clausen with the Bills is short-sighted.
The score dictated they pass
by norcaliangelsfan on Jan 6, 2011 2:30 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
It may be short-sighted, but I still think he’d have been a mistake for the Bills.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 3:20 PM EST up reply actions
I never said Clausen would have been just as bad on the Bills. I was just reiterating that virtually every name associated with the team a year ago stunk in 2010. Even if they had “addressed” it like many wanted it’s not a guarantee of success.
You can't have CHANGE without CHAN.
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by MattRichWarren on Jan 6, 2011 8:33 PM EST up reply actions
Neither were free agents...
And while Campbell did get benched early he responded to it fairly well. And led the raiders to a 7-4 record after it.
If you recall, Campbell was the guy I wanted the Bills to pick up. And in 13 games he passed for significantly fewer fewer yards and TDs with a lower QB rating than Fitzpatrick. That’s not to say what either would have done in the other’s shoes but it at least says that Campbell wasn’t head and shoulders above Fitz.
You can't have CHANGE without CHAN.
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Buffalo Rumblings
by MattRichWarren on Jan 6, 2011 8:37 PM EST up reply actions
Why is it that regardless of the CBA we know Brohm is restricted. Couldn’t they change the age and years requirements that define those designations in the next agreement? Not that I care in this case just would like to know for other potential restricted free agents.
Why do they put the Gideon Bibles only in the bedrooms, where it's usually too late, and not in the barroom downstairs? ~Christopher Morley, Contribution to a Contribution
They could have language in the particular contract stating that the Bills can’t tender him at a specific level but he was on the Packers practice squad and had no leverage to get that kind of deal.
In the old CBA, a player with four seasons or less, like Brohm’s three, were restricted free agents. In the uncapped year that was bumped up to six seasons or less. We have no way of knowing what it will be in the new CBA.
You can't have CHANGE without CHAN.
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by MattRichWarren on Jan 6, 2011 11:59 AM EST up reply actions
Superman still has some upside he could reach. LoL
If there wasn’t so many villians in the world, he would have less to worry about and would be able to cover more territory. If there was less carelessness in the world he would be able to free up more time for the good deed doing that he does.
I am not sold on Ryan Fitzpatrick being tapped out or at the top of his ceiling. Not when he is compared religiously to the elites in the league. There are a handfull of QB’s in the league that play behind less than stellar offensive fronts, or running defficient offenses, but there is opportunity for Ryan to improve. When Chan says he is very committed, and Buddy says it is not all his fault and that he needs some help, this tells me that they see where he can improve and feel it is worth their effort to provide those tools to allow him to progress. We cannot overlook the strengths that Ryan Fitzpatrick brings to the entire offense.
With all that on the table. What better opportunity will we have to draft a franchise QB than this coming draft with the #3 overall pick. There more than likely will not be a better opportunity. So I would look long and hard at what is available before making that selection. I strongly suggest that the Bills use their entire 15 minutes in selecting thier pick not the first 15 seconds.
The bigger problem may be depth at QB. If we go into 2011 with Fitzpatrick and he gets injured early in the season, we could find us picking in the top 5 in the following draft as in this one. I guess that isn’t as serious as passing on a class of QB’s in this draft with a sure #3 pick.
My early draft prediction for 2011 and FA wishes are as follows. 1st pick: QB, 2nd pick OT, 3rd pick LB middle or outside. FA wishes, LB,NT and DE. Ftizpatrick isn’t as big a concern going into 2011 as is passing on a #3 pick in this class of QB’s. Still that leaves us without depth.
Levi Brown: Chan Gaileys best kept secret of 2010. The kid was hidden behind a talent evaluation going into 2010. When he did play it was sparingly and with out much to notice. The kid has an arm that we all should be drooling over. He was cut and brought back without fear of being swiped off the wire. I too feel he deserves a look after a second camp with a little more participation before we right the kid off.
YOU ARE OUT of you kuku fufu mine craker laker Flaber baber FUNKI chunki brain. WE want to winn every year -- abayarde
The kid has an arm that we all should be drooling over
His first throw looked so odd and then I realized it was because it was on a laser with seemingly very little effort.
Why do they put the Gideon Bibles only in the bedrooms, where it's usually too late, and not in the barroom downstairs? ~Christopher Morley, Contribution to a Contribution
JP Losman had a rocket arm too, guys. So did Jeff George. The rocket arm isn’t all a QB needs, but it is all we have to go on with Brown.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 12:31 PM EST up reply actions
That is correct, I wasn’t saying he is the quarterback of the future because he has a lively arm, merely saying that part of his skill set is about as solid as it gets if I dare say that after watching 3 throws.
Why do they put the Gideon Bibles only in the bedrooms, where it's usually too late, and not in the barroom downstairs? ~Christopher Morley, Contribution to a Contribution
I know you weren’t. I just see absolutely no reason for them to view Brown as a long-term option. They cut him afterall, and only resigned him because Trent Edwards was dumped.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:05 PM EST up reply actions
I agree, when is the last time a developmental project made it big?
Why do they put the Gideon Bibles only in the bedrooms, where it's usually too late, and not in the barroom downstairs? ~Christopher Morley, Contribution to a Contribution
Well, they’re all developmental projects.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Jan 6, 2011 1:24 PM EST up reply actions
As in late round, no pro style background from small schools, or as in they are just out of college and need to work on their game to be good pros.
Why do they put the Gideon Bibles only in the bedrooms, where it's usually too late, and not in the barroom downstairs? ~Christopher Morley, Contribution to a Contribution
Not tring to be coy here…
Was Tom Brady a developmental prospect?
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:29 PM EST up reply actions
I know there are exceptions, my point is I would rather not trust the equivalent of winning the lottery.
Why do they put the Gideon Bibles only in the bedrooms, where it's usually too late, and not in the barroom downstairs? ~Christopher Morley, Contribution to a Contribution
I was genuinely curious if Brady was a developmental prospect or not. I think he was, but not certain.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:44 PM EST up reply actions
I really don’t know, I guess I assume a 6th round pick would be termed developmental? Yeah good question, what does developmental mean?
Why do they put the Gideon Bibles only in the bedrooms, where it's usually too late, and not in the barroom downstairs? ~Christopher Morley, Contribution to a Contribution
How much can Fitz improve though??
He has miles to go to be elite. He was average, at best, this year. It’ll take a miracle for him to become an elite passer. I for one am not into relying on miracles; hopefully the Bills feel the same way.
Comparing Fitz to the league’s elite just can’t be done and isn’t fair to those players, imo….
~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 Jan 6, 2011 1:40 PM EST via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
He was a fantastic fantasy player, for those that chose the beard. Too bad fantasy ain’t reality.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:45 PM EST up reply actions
All right, here's your miracle
Swap Fitz and Brady. Fitz would become elite — no need to force throws anymore, and a coach who would kill him if he did, and in a system that made Cassell look elite (or so everyone said at the time). I think Fitz would be better than Cassel was. Meanwhile, Brady in Buffalo would not look so elite, juyst like he didn’t in the last superbowl he played in.
"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 Jan 6, 2011 1:53 PM EST up reply actions
Well good luck with that
I’m talking reality here, though, not some fantasy scenario.
Plus, Fitz wouldn’t be elite in NE anyhow. He’d probably produce a little more than here, but his physical limitations still exist….
~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 Jan 6, 2011 2:00 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
“This does not compute.”
I think that’s a pretty insane comparison. That’s implying that the QB isn’t responsible for a team’s success or failure.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 2:00 PM EST up reply actions
Unless there is a QB that they are a.b.s.o.l.u.t.e.l.y. in love with...
Dont draft one. We can get by another year with Fitzy. Now I want a Franchise guy, dont get me wrong… But there is no sense in taking a QB that Chan has to “coach up” to get production from. We have that already with Fitz.
Lets Go Buff a lo!!!
Like I mentioned above.
We cannot overlook the strengths that Ryan Fitzpatrick brings to the entire offense.
One of those strengths is the fact that Gailey and Fitzpatrick are on the same page. Not alot more valuable than when a coach and a player can communicate and understand each other with the shortest amount of time available to them. He brings many strengths, Fitzpatrick, still has areas to improve though.
YOU ARE OUT of you kuku fufu mine craker laker Flaber baber FUNKI chunki brain. WE want to winn every year -- abayarde
AGREED
Fitz has EARNED the starting job. Clearly he can run the offense and he just did it pretty consistently with mediocre talent (poor OTs, average running game, NO TE, and numerous undrafted rookie WRs). What could he do with better blockers on the edges, a pass catching TE and a guy like AJ Green in the mix? (not necessarily endorsing Green, just imagine if he was getting reps where Nelson or Jones was). Probably 4000 yards and 30 TDs.
by BillsThickNThin on Jan 6, 2011 12:17 PM EST up reply actions
I think
The reason Green is so enticing at #3 overall is becuase hes a playmaker… and thats what Fitz says in every single press conference. He likes to get the ball in the hands of his playmakers. We’d be a little crowded at WR… and every loves Nelson, Roosevelt and Jones… but lets face it, if we want to get better as a team we need to upgrade all positions… and Green is a huuuge upgrade over those guys.
Green, Evans, Johnson, Easily, Parrish and Jones (for ST play primarily unless injury). Roosevelt back to the practice squad.
Id love to keep DNelson… and if we drafted Green and could find someone to take Evans on draft day for another pick(3rd/4th round) then we would have DNelson as well.
Lets Go Buff a lo!!!
A little crowded at WR? I still think Green is a bad pick because it very likely may create a situation similar to the RB problem this season.
Evans isn’t going anywhere. Stevie Johnson has clearly found a starting home. Roscoe Parrish was solid at #3. I just think taking Green is a luxury the team cannot afford. It’s not like he can play tight end. I’d be happier if they took a stud TE at #3 than a stud WR.
Yes, i’m insane. No, I don’t care.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 12:50 PM EST up reply actions
There is no 'stud' TE this year
1. Kyle Rudolph just declared for the draft (Jr) but unfortunately as the top TE prospect, he’s projected in the late 2nd round.
2. I don’t know if a TE will ever be in the game plan for Gailey. Looking at his 2000-2001 Miami teams with Jay Fiedler at QB, their #1 TE had 10 catches in 2000 and 16 in 2001. That was Jed Weaver, maybe if we had a TE that could block AND get down field he would utilize one much more.
The reason I like the Green pick is even after Evans and Parrish are gone our WRs as a group will have just as much talent and they’d all be real young. Stevie would be the oldest at 24 and we’d still have Green, Nelson, Easley and Jones. They’d only get better and providing they were healthy, we wouldn’t have to worry about WR for YEARS.
by BillsThickNThin on Jan 6, 2011 1:07 PM EST up reply actions
Kyle Rudolph is projected in the late second round because of rather serious injury issues. If he gets a clean bill of health during the pre-draft process, I strongly believe he’ll be a first-round pick.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Jan 6, 2011 1:14 PM EST up reply actions
Good point
it’s the same situation as Gresham and Gronkowski last year.
The bottom line is we won’t be drafting him at #3.
by BillsThickNThin on Jan 6, 2011 1:30 PM EST up reply actions
I’d be happy if the Bills wrestled Kevin Boss away from the Giants. Very happy.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:15 PM EST up reply actions
Amazingly
It looks like Fitzpatrick has and can consistently play like a version of Bledsoe. Statistical machine, both good and bad. But is he a winner? We still don’t know. That’s the ONLY attribute I care about on the football field. A QB could throw 5 picks (Romo vs. Buffalo?) and 100 yards (Sanchez) but still be part of a winning combination.
Stats are pretty, but wins are pretty awesome.
I still think if Luck declares, Buffalo will attempt to sell the farm – and groom him under Fitzpatrick. Fitz has some great attributes that with better mechanics and physical still, would likely lead him to some of the greenest pastures of the NFL.
I like him, but I wonder if we’ve seen his best.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 11:38 AM EST reply actions
What if?
I like him, but I wonder if we’ve seen his best.
Our offensive line improves in pass protection. It should going into camp healthy and an entire offseason of work and study together.
Our running game becomes more of an influence. Same reason as I listed above.
A second season of drafting talent or FA acquistion that solidifies the unit Vs some other teams left over.
I realize these are excuses at this point, but it is consistent with Gailey and Nix’s comments through out the year. The question isn’t so much if we have seen his best but rather how much more can he offer.
YOU ARE OUT of you kuku fufu mine craker laker Flaber baber FUNKI chunki brain. WE want to winn every year -- abayarde
I agree
This was Fitz’s first ‘full’ season as a starter and it wasn’t even a full season as he was 2nd in depth chart until week 3. Surely someone as smart as Fitz will learn from the experience and improve his decision making that will hopefully bring down the turnovers. To me that is the only aspect of his game that needs dramatic improvement so the athletic restrictions aren’t really a concern to me.
by Billsdownunder on Jan 6, 2011 12:17 PM EST up reply actions
That offensive line can improve all it wants, but it won’t change his penchant for turnovers. Turnovers are one of the BIGGEST factors in how successful a team is. Think about Peyton Manning’s slump this season. His only slump, really. He threw 11 or 12 INTS in 4 games. They lost them all.
Fitzpatrick needs to change his habits for finding the wrong guy at the end of games, and learn to do less when running free (Iron Maiden, FTW).
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 12:39 PM EST up reply actions
Shouldn't a statistical machine put up statistics?
I know he’s better than the junk we’ve had out there in the past but he still didn’t put up any numbers. The only stat where he was in the top 10 was interceptions. Stat QBs don’t finish 22nd in yards and 27th in completion percentage.
I didn’t want to discount that fact that he’d put up the most TDs since Bledsoe, and the first three grand since JP Losman that one season where he threw like 800 yards on the Texans.
But i’m not sure his stats were anything more than awesome to Bills fans.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:20 PM EST up reply actions
They were also only in 13 games, at least one of which he was injured for. And, taking away the last few games when injuries had piled up on a team with no depth, his TD/INT ratio was not bad (not great, but not bad).
Yes, Bills fans have come to expect less, I definitely agree with that. But his season was above average for starting QBs in this league.
I really hope Brohm isn’t brought back next year. He just does nothing for me.
You can't have CHANGE without CHAN.
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Buffalo Rumblings
Can't Get Right
It’s a shame that Brohm can’t get it together. I think his nickname should be “Can’t get right”. I would have liked to have seen him become at least a decent backup. Maybe one day he will finally throw a touchdown in the NFL for somebody.
I wish I wasn’t there, but I think i’m getting there. He’s someone who was supposed to be somebody, but turned out to be nobody.
He should have left school when he had the chance.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 12:40 PM EST up reply actions
Vince Young
Not sure I’d like it,but any chance the Bills make a play on him?
Arrive...Raise Hell...Leave
I hope not. He’s a winner, but most of those wins come against subpar competition. He’s not so lucky against playoff-level teams.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 12:41 PM EST up reply actions
Is there really anything to think he’s better than Fitz at this point?
by Pistol on Jan 6, 2011 12:45 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I doubt ANYONE can convince me of that being true.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 12:48 PM EST up reply actions
Nope. But it would be a legitimate competition to Push Fitzy for the starting job.And we would have a “capable”? back-up instead of Levi and whatever drafted qb we get…like I said,not sure if I’d like it but it could be interesting.
Arrive...Raise Hell...Leave
I don’t know if Fitzy needs pushing. He’s Chan’s guy right now. I bet he’s Chan’s guy unless Chan gets Luck. Luck seems to be everybody’s guy.
I’m beginning to feel a bit nervous for Luck. Everyone is building him up to HOF expecations before he’s even been drafted. I hope his makeup is stout.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 12:55 PM EST up reply actions
I'd like it
He’s got a better skill set than Fitz. He’s quicker, stronger and has a better arm. He has the same problems as Fitz with decision making and throwing a bad pick at the wrong time. He wins games too. If maturity wasn’t a question, I can’t see why anyone would not want him on their team. If he backed up Fitz, I’d feel a lot better than having Brohm or Brown behind Fitz.
by BuffaloFanFromCT on Jan 6, 2011 12:49 PM EST up reply actions
Fitz is smarter!
Smart QB’s win games, not athletic QB’s…
"Pressure is when you don't prepare, and I know I've prepared myself..."
-C.J. Spiller
The problem is that VY has shown an ability to win games, despite his underwhelming stats and such. But as I pointed out above, he’s a winner against “losers.”
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:28 PM EST up reply actions
His winning games had more to do with a stud RB defenses had to gameplan for and not so much his own abilities. I doubt VY wins most of those games with Lendale White in the backfield.
"Pressure is when you don't prepare, and I know I've prepared myself..."
-C.J. Spiller
White was a TD machine for the Titans. He was on everybody’s fantasy wishlist. But yes, Young didn’t do it all alone, but he also was a huge part of them winning 8 games in a row last season.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:36 PM EST up reply actions
And i’m not advocating for him. I just wanted to point out that he’s VERY unconventional but seems to win games.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:36 PM EST up reply actions
Smart means what? Intelligence or just football saavy? Because from what I recall neither Marino nor Kelly were considered book smart.
Atheltic QB’s can win games… case in point – Philly Eagles. Before Vick they had the mobile McNabb who took them to 4 NFC championship games if I recall.
by BuffaloFanFromCT on Jan 6, 2011 2:35 PM EST up reply actions
Football saavy
Fitz is a smart guy who can read defenses, etc. and apply what he learns. He just lacks physical skills, accuracy being the main skill.
"Pressure is when you don't prepare, and I know I've prepared myself..."
-C.J. Spiller
Seriously, seriously, seriously doubt it.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Jan 6, 2011 12:53 PM EST up reply actions
I mean, folks: Vince Young is about six months younger than Ryan Fitzpatrick. There is no untapped potential with VY. He is what he is, and what he is is kind of a crappy QB with a weird attitude. Buddy Nix knows this.
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Jan 6, 2011 12:54 PM EST up reply actions
Who
Wants that for a sig?? Any takers?? Hi-larious!!!!
All hail the victory lighter!!
by brendar of the bills people on Jan 6, 2011 6:29 PM EST up reply actions
3 year window
I think the CHIX regime has one thing in mind on whether or not to add a qb….Can he(Fitzpatrick) get us to the playoffs in the next two years ? I think CHIX believes Fitz can with a better supporting cast. I think they add a stud D guy in the first round and then draft a developmental QB in round 3…..Someone with more immediate upside than Brown
Round two will be spent on acquiring O-Line help
Gailey has 3 years basically to turn this thing around. Year 1 is done. Too start over at qb in year 2 with a rookie would put them far behind in terms of acheiving that 3 year playoff goal. I don’t foresee any YOUNG free agent out there that can step in …….maybe Kolb via trade but it will cost an arm and leg financially and pick wise.
Good points. So what i’m getting here is it’s probably wise for us all to begin looking at the 2011 freshmen class. I think they’re going to need a QB.
I was thinking here if Peyton Manning could take this team to the playoffs. I wonder if he could. He’d have to beat the Patritots. It all starts there. Beat the Pats and you’ve found an answer.
Is it any wonder that 8 out of 11 years of their playoff drought have found the Bills winless against the Patriots?
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:09 PM EST up reply actions
Agree with all
I’m with SFC’s evaluation of not selecting a QB:
I just think it would be terribly misguided and indefinsible.
I’ll extend that a bit. Due to drafting so high, and the glut of potential franchise QB’s available in this year’s draft, I think it would be terribly misguided and indefensible not to draft a QB in the first round this year.
Check the stats for percentages of franchise QB’s that play in the playoffs yearly. Roughly, 80% of franchise QB’s play in the playoffs.
In 2010: Brady, Manning, Brees, Rodgers, Flacco, Roethlisberger, Ryan, Vick.
Rivers isn’t playing, but his team was on the cusp at 9-7. Romo got hurt. Eli almost made it. The only franchise QB to play all year and do poorly was Schaub.
2009: Brady, Manning, Romo, Brees, Rodgers, Flacco, Warner, Ryan, Rivers. Eli and the Giants went 8-8, as did Roethlisberger. Schaub went 9-7.
Of that total group of 14 (Brady, Manning, Romo, Rivers, Rodgers, Flacco, Warner, Roethlisberger, Eli, Vick, Brees, Ryan, Schaub, Favre). 8 are first rounders. 2 are second rounders. One 3rd rounder. One 6th rounder. 2 undrafted.
I understand I’ve been beating this drum loudly and for a week now. I truly believe it though.
Starting the official Buffalo "Draft Owen Marecic in 2011" campaign.
I had a dream the night after the first round. Buffalo traded for Tim Tebow. Josh McDaniels is gone; does the new coach like Tebow as much? It could happen.
by Der Jaeger on Jan 6, 2011 1:05 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
You can beat that drum right in Ralph Wilson’s ear, if it’s necessary. I think the other half needs to be the coach. You look at teams with success and they have that QB, but what they also seem to have is a coach on the same page as his QB. Vick’s a wild card, sure, and Favre is the exception to this thought, yes.
They need that QB and they need that QB to have a coach tied to him like no other. Gailey’s gotten there with Fitz, but i’m not sure Fitz is “that QB.”
He’s one of the coolest Bills in recent years though. Amazing what a season can do for a guy.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:14 PM EST up reply actions
This goes along with a concept that I have
For team success, four things need to exist: A good owner that isn’t afraid to do what is necessary to win, a GM that can continually reload the team with talent, a coach that can maximize that talent, and a franchise QB that allow the team to win, reload talent and win.
Starting the official Buffalo "Draft Owen Marecic in 2011" campaign.
I had a dream the night after the first round. Buffalo traded for Tim Tebow. Josh McDaniels is gone; does the new coach like Tebow as much? It could happen.
I fear this team is going to marginally improve next season, but still find themselves in the ditch. This draft may be the closest they get to the top for some time, but not because they’re winning. That means finding and drafting the next “sure thing” could be even more difficult going forward.
I think it’s time they figure this whole mess out, even though they are a fairly new regime.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:48 PM EST up reply actions
Im l3eaning more toward this. Which is why I am seriously warming up to the idea that the Bills should really make a play for Luck. I would suggest that if the Bills drafted Andrew Luck only this year we would be the big winners.
Just saw it now myself. Oh well, his loss…in many ways. Maybe football isn’t the most important thing in his life.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 3:26 PM EST up reply actions
He must declare for any of this to have a shot at happening. I don’t know how he could turn away what is likely to be the highest his stock will ever be. The teams that need QBs are at the top of the draft this year. Huge “what if” here but say he did go back another year to finish his degree, what if a team like Atlanta finishes worst because their franchise signal-caller gets injured? The one thing that’s known this year is if he declares, he’ll be the top pick. Next year has to be earned all over again.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 3:25 PM EST up reply actions
I genuinely think we have 3 out of 4 of those things. We even have an ace up our sleeve in that we have a coach that has a proven track record and history w/ translating the pro game to NFL QBs. If we don’t go QB in round 1 this year we will have missed the boat and will set ourselves back 2 more years or at least until we find an answer at QB. As a result of having a coach w/ a proven track record, we can afford to take ANY of the blue chip prospects in this years draft and be comfortable with the product that should show itself.
Remember Chan took Mike Tomczak to a divisional playoff! The guy can coach QBs!
Agree
I think Buffalo could take Locker, who needs work, and develop him into a franchise QB.
Starting the official Buffalo "Draft Owen Marecic in 2011" campaign.
I had a dream the night after the first round. Buffalo traded for Tim Tebow. Josh McDaniels is gone; does the new coach like Tebow as much? It could happen.
Agree. Rec'd. But while your cutoff is the first round, my cut off is the top 40 picks.
If you take the top 40 picks, and not just the first round, you then include Brett Favre and Drew Brees, since both were selected out of the first round, but inside of the top 40 picks of the draft.
But yeah, I’m with you. The Bills should absolutely get a QB within the top 40 picks. So that leaves either their 1st or 2nd rounder. But would more likely go with the first rounder.
"WHEN THE WAGON BLASTER TAKES OFF dont try to get in. THE SPACESES ARE LIMITED FOR WINNING ATTITUDE GODZILLA IS COMING GET READY" - abayarde
by StroudFanClub on Jan 6, 2011 2:05 PM EST up reply actions
At 3rd, Buffalo should get their pick.
Carolina has Clausen, and while Luck would change their direction, I can see them drafting Bowers. I could also see them go with AJ Green. Newton or Gabbert aren’t that good to pass on a defender and simultaneously give up on Clausen.
Denver has their QB and Fairley makes sense. Or Bowers, if he drops.
Buffalo gets their QB. In Der Jaeger world, that QB is Gabbert. Though I’d be content with Locker as well.
Starting the official Buffalo "Draft Owen Marecic in 2011" campaign.
I had a dream the night after the first round. Buffalo traded for Tim Tebow. Josh McDaniels is gone; does the new coach like Tebow as much? It could happen.
Preliminarily, those are my top two choices as well...Gabbert and Locker
"WHEN THE WAGON BLASTER TAKES OFF dont try to get in. THE SPACESES ARE LIMITED FOR WINNING ATTITUDE GODZILLA IS COMING GET READY" - abayarde
by StroudFanClub on Jan 6, 2011 9:06 PM EST up reply actions
Chicken or egg?
The thing is, if you could go back in time and put any of those “franchise” qbs on the Bills team for the 2010 season, would the Bills have made the playoffs? Highly, highly unlikely. My guess is that maybe, just maybe, they would have won 7 games instead of 4. For that matter, had Fitz been the starter all year, we should have won 5. Notice that Hassleback has fallen off the list of franchise qbs. I think that’s because Seattle has too many weaknesses throughout its roster, so Matt’s been forgotten.
"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 Jan 6, 2011 2:15 PM EST up reply actions
He's not considered a franchise QB
because he stinks. Have you watched Hass this year? Yowsers he’s bad!!!
~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 Jan 6, 2011 2:35 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
I agree with your point. The Bills need to take a QB.
I will disagree that one Tony Romo is a franchise QB.
Call me a hater, but Romo fell into that role and did well enough to not warrant the Cowboys to address the position. He is the product of a very good line and quality “skill” positions. He’s got an excellent OC/HC in Garrett. But to me, he lacks any real intagibles and as a fan you are hoping more that he doesn’t blow it vs. putting the team on his shoulders and winning the game. Probably a step or two below elite, I would put him in the Jay Cutler category.
Romo reminds me of the man he replaced: Bledsoe.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 3:28 PM EST up reply actions
Chix
I believe that Chix will take a QB in the first two rounds of the draft this year. They didn’t like any QB’s coming out last year (in the exception of the unattainable Bradford), and wanted to evaluate their own talent which they believed could be as good as if not better than Clausen, McCoy, etc. They had bigger needs (defensive players) and wanted to ensure their top pick was a great value pick (not the 3rd/4th best OT which was a need), hence choosing Spiller. I don’t believe they take Green this year if he is the best value on the board at the time Buffalo picks, but I think they will take a high value guy with the 3rd pick, whether it be their QB or defensive stud like Fairley or Bowers.
"Pressure is when you don't prepare, and I know I've prepared myself..."
-C.J. Spiller
I still think they liked Tebow but thought he’d fall to them in the second round.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 1:49 PM EST up reply actions
Doesn't matter who our QB is YET
Fitzpatrick just had the best year for a Buffalo QB in ages and we won 4 games.
231 yards per game, 23 TDs, 15 INTs in THIRTEEN GAMES (against many good defenses when we were playing from behind)
Flacco took Baltimore to the playoffs his rookie year at 11-5 (previously 5-11) with 185 yds/g, 14 TDs and 12 INTs. Bradford just missed the playoffs (Rams went from 1-15 to 7-9) with 219 yds/g, 18 TDs and 15 INTs. 2008 Falcons went from 4-12 to 11-5 after drafting Matt Ryan who posted 215 yds/g 16 TDs and 11 INTs. Pittsburgh won the SB with Roethlisberger in his rookie year when he had 187 yds/g, 17 TDs and 11 INTs. They went 15-1 after going 6-10 the year before. All of these QBs accumulated these numbers through 16 games except Roeth through 14.
Hopefully, you’ve noticed the trend that there was MASSIVE team improvement with these rookie QBs taking over, yet Ryan Fitzpatrick just had atleast as good of a statistical season than ALL OF THEM. I highly doubt any QB we could potentially draft would come in and have a better season off the bat than Fitz just did. The highest drafted/rated QBs in recent history couldn’t do it, yet their teams turned around. Clearly the turnaround was much more than just bringing in a QB…
Baltimore went from 22nd in defense to 3rd from 2007 to 2008, the same year Flacco came in. Atlanta’s defense went from 29th to 11th during the same time when Ryan came in. St. Louis went from 31st to 19th last year to this year. Pittsburgh already had the #1 overall defense when they drafted Roeth and maintained top 5 the next year when they won it all.
Now imagine, given Fitz’s numbers this year, how good our team could be if our run defense wasn’t DEAD LAST by a longshot and our overall defense wasn’t 24th. Sure we could draft a QB for the longterm, but it won’t matter this year and probably not next. Until our defense can at least become average, it’s too much to ask for any QB to overcome our defenses shortcomings.
We don’t need a franchise QB so urgently as everyone thinks, we need to draft athletes for the defensive side of the ball. Personally i hope we don’t burn #3 on a QB but aim towards Bowers, Fairley or Peterson and then put a QB in down the road when he’ll have a much higher chance for success.
As I finished writing this i got a text saying Luck isn’t coming out anyways…
by BillsThickNThin on Jan 6, 2011 2:51 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
I like that you’re bringing back the “defense wins championships” adage. I would prefer a stout defense and effective offense to a point machine.
Defense wins championships when the opposing QB and coach aren’t more talented. It’s circuitous, this whole thing.
TEAMS with GREAT QBS win championships.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 3:31 PM EST up reply actions
Our 'Team' isn't good enough to come close
Put Manning, Brady or Brees on our team and you think we’d win a championship like that?
by BillsThickNThin on Jan 6, 2011 3:36 PM EST up reply actions
Manning’s trying to do it this season. That team looks very similar to the Bills, though they do have Freeney and Mathis. Mostly Freeney.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 4:41 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Brad Johnson beat RIch Gannon. Eli Manning beat Tom Brady. The Ravens won with Trent Dilfer (who was not as good as Kerry Collins). Roethlisberger beat Kurt Warner. Yes, I know that Roe is a great QB, but he did not put up Warner numbers. The Saints beat the Colts last year because their defense went off at the end of the year. In the last ten years, more often than not it’s been the better defense that’s won.
I'm not against drafting a QB
and I’m not saying Fitz can win us a championship but for the next couple years I think Fitz is good enough to run the offense until we get more talent all over the field. Then plug in the franchise QB. Whether you believe in defense winning championships or not, I’m relatively sure no team dead last in run defense has competed for a SB. The Saints didn’t have a great defense last year but they weren’t god awful and their offense was #1, so I suppose if you think a guy like Luck or Locker whomever can get our offense to the top of the league than defense is a bit less relevant. I’d much rather have a well rounded team.
by BillsThickNThin on Jan 6, 2011 3:53 PM EST up reply actions
Right. The defense has to figure out the QB to win. If the QB outsmarts the defense, they likely win.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 4:44 PM EST up reply actions
did anyone watch the bills objectively this year?
because if so, the problem should have been crystal clear:
defensive line sucks, and offensive line was a wee bit better.
but the defensive line killed any chance of fiz putting some
serious wins up on the board……
can’t stop the run, makes 2 and short, 3rd and short……makes
long sideline waits for offense to get back on field……
makes for short games possession wise…..
bills cannot get better til they stop the damn run….
all efforts should be made to secure linemen and
linebackers first and foremost…..
fitz is not the team’s problem, not even close…
We’ve heard all of this a million times. But we’re systematically going through the roster, position by position. So can’t we… you know… talk about the quarterbacks here?
Editor-in-Chief, BUFFALO RUMBLINGS®
@BrianGalliford
by Brian Galliford on Jan 6, 2011 3:27 PM EST up reply actions
So, the question is now, with Luck off the board thanks to going back too school
What do we do now for a QB? It means every remaining QB prospect has shot up a few spots since the pool is now much thinner. I could see Nix not pulling the trigger on an early round QB now. With Luck there, yes, I could see them making a move, but with him gone, no.
abayarde- "All off the pain will vanish The Whagonblaster will return and with a new MOTOR and attitude even BIGGER AND stronger THE EYE of the Tiger , will knock our enemies to the next Galaxy , WE the BUffalo Nation DO not know defeat , We do not know Surrender , We only know that if we fall we get up stronger , faster, better WE have the Technology to BUILD IT"
It'll be interesting to see how Luck staying changes the draft
I’m not sure I like it, I think one less guy out of Bowers, Fairley and Peterson will be available when we pick. I also don’t think we have a shot at him next year.
It could be worse though, Buffalo could have had the top pick… we’d all be going mad.
Carolina should have kept their collective mouths shut.
Now teams are aware Luck was their guy (not a difficult guess, but no information would have left it a bit of a mystery), so they’ll devalue the top pick now – should anyone want it.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 4:46 PM EST reply actions
apologies…wrong thread.
In the year two thousaaaaaaand.
In the year two thousAAAAAAND!
Current song recommendation: Ween "Mr. Richard Smoker"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Jan 6, 2011 4:47 PM EST up reply actions
What about pushing Fitz through FA with a Quinn, Orton, or even Kolb? Then you have given Fitz a push and shored up the back up position with another “Open Competition at QB” Just this year it is for the #2 position.
Then hearing Chan speak. He stressed the O line would be better next year. Much better. I also think they like the group they have assembled. So I would think Peterson with the 3rd overall to help cover TE’s and OT with the second and third will be DT. Plus with the potential player losses to FA, QB will be addressed through FA not the draft.
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