Buffalo Bills' C.J. Spiller Gets No Favors From Chan Gailey
by Brian Galliford on Dec 19, 2011 11:30 AM EST
in Buffalo Bills News
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Buffalo Bills running back C.J. Spiller had "the best game of his professional career" for the second time in three weeks in yesterday's loss to the Miami Dolphins. Spiller set career highs with 91 rushing yards and 76 receiving yards, tied a career high with two touchdowns, and touched the ball 21 times in defeat.
Yet this morning, people like WGR 550's Paul Hamilton are up in arms about Spiller. What gives? Let's just say that Bills head coach Chan Gailey didn't do Spiller any favors after the game in answering a question about why Tashard Choice (8 touches, 59 yards) took reps away from the former Clemson star.
"We had a plan of certain packages that we were using C.J. and we were using Tashard in," Gailey explained. "We knew we were going to use C.J. a lot in the passing game. We knew that was going to be part of it. We're trying not to wear the guy completely out. He's not the biggest back in the world. I don't think he can go out there and carry it 25 or 30 times. I don't want to put him in that position right now to carry it 25 or 30 times. I think we've got to split the carries and let Tashard have some of those packages to take some of the hits off of C.J."
There it is: people are upset because Gailey essentially admitted that he doesn't see Spiller as a feature, every-down back in this league. At least not yet, he doesn't. That prompted Hamilton's massive rambling article this morning, in which he deemed the Spiller pick a "BUST!!!!!!!" and labeled the runner "nothing but a toy."
Whine all you want about the logic of the pick, Hamilton-led Bills fans - those points are mostly valid - but if Gailey's toys are throwing up 167 yards and two touchdowns against the NFL's No. 3 run defense (and No. 15 overall defense), that's when you need to quiet down for a while.
The problem with Spiller isn't that he's not a feature back. In fact, aside from his inconsistency and his slow development (both of which seem to be coming around), there isn't a problem with Spiller at all. The problem is that Gailey's offense, his game planning, and his choices in the circumstances of the flow of the game keep the ball out of Spiller's hands. And yes, I'm saying this after Spiller recorded 21 touches in a game. Arian Foster had the same number yesterday, friends.
Only once in 17 possessions on Sunday did Spiller log more than two touches. That was the drive in which he caught a three-yard touchdown pass to make the score 23-13 late in the fourth quarter; on that possession, he carried twice for 13 yards and caught three passes for 28 yards and the score. The Bills had three more possessions after that, and discounting a desperation lateral on the final play of the game, he touched the ball just three more times.
Part of that has to do with Gailey's wanting to keep Spiller fresh - and aside from the frustration of Buffalo's offense going into a funk when the ball isn't in its best player's hands (yes, Spiller is the offense's best player right now), there's nothing wrong with that. There's nothing wrong with keeping any NFL running back fresh, especially when you're playing for pride.
The other part is that Buffalo's offense is so terrible right now that it's tough to get Spiller into any rhythm as a ball carrier (and part of that problem is Gailey's offensive philosophy, as well). Buffalo was facing a 30-yards-to-go situation twice in the first five possessions yesterday, folks. Nobody's going to give the ball to their running back in that down and distance. Not a coach as aggressive with his play-calling as Gailey is, anyway.
Let's not blow this out of proportion, either: Spiller had nearly triple the number of touches Choice did. Goodness gracious. People are acting like Choice was the go-to option for Gailey.
Since taking over as the top tailback on the depth chart following Fred Jackson's season-ending injury, Spiller has rushed for 275 yards at 4.8 yards per carry with two touchdowns, and he's also tallied 120 receiving yards and another score. He's averaging 19 touches per contest in that four-game stretch. Call him a toy if you must - and question the logic of his being a Top 10 draft pick all you like - but if the over-drafted toy keeps producing when called upon, nobody should be registering seven-exclamation-point complaints.
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He had 9 catches too
21 total touches. I think that, even with Fred, CG is quick to use screens in the place of runs. I don’t know that there is a functional difference between 21 handoffs to CJ Spiller and 21 runs and catches, split up, to the same guy.
I def think they could have found a way to involve him more (and, to be fair, I don’t know how many times he was targeted and the ball wasn’t complete or the play was bust up), but a few more handoffs were probably called for-not sure when, but probably called for.
I think this post captures a lot of what could be better about involving the RBs in the game-and why it isn’t particularly awful.
I don’t know that there is a functional difference between 21 handoffs to CJ Spiller and 21 runs and catches, split up, to the same guy.
only one: the number of legitimate blockers to assist the RB in getting to the second level. right now, we can get hats on hats, but without TEs we have to zone block direction-ally to handle the linebackers, and we can’t just straight up push people around really. we are shifting and moving and trapping in order to create creases. each can be effective ways to run, i would prefer we employ both.
Screens have proven ineffective against teams that can play good man to man coverage, ie the jets/dolphins and historically, the Pats. So employing that particular plan, seems odd to me. Why when we play man to man teams, are we running screens, instead of drags? beyond me. we rather run our slot guy 15 yards down the field on 3rd and short, so we can throw INTO coverage, rather than employing an underneath route to beat the coverage.
ABAYARDE IS NOSTRADAMUS JUST WATCH WE WILL NOT YIEALD TO NOBODY YOUR SOUL WE WILL TAKE
by ThaRealTruth on Dec 19, 2011 3:59 PM EST up reply actions
Read between the lines , my friends!!!!
What chan is really trying to say is that they want to keep Spiller fresh for when they get rid of FJax in 2013. Spiller will then be the 15-20 carries a game, go to guy for the next 6-7 years. Yeah, they are trying to keep him fresh for when it really matters. They don’t want to resign Freddie and they don’t want to wear down their boy Spiller.
you could very well be right.
But if we are lucky, we re-sign Fred, and have them both the next 3 years, and CJ is the starter once we have some help for him (additional offensive weapons, maybe an actual franchise QB), and we don’t simply break him, from being too rough on him immediately. your view is valid.
ABAYARDE IS NOSTRADAMUS JUST WATCH WE WILL NOT YIEALD TO NOBODY YOUR SOUL WE WILL TAKE
by ThaRealTruth on Dec 19, 2011 11:01 PM EST up reply actions
It wasn’t long ago everyone was saying the feature back was dead and it was all about two back systems. Whatever works…
Look no further than our offenses lack of ability to stay on the field in the third quarter to see where the running game touches went. Each possession quickly bogged down in long down and distance (two penalties) or interceptions, that happened despite trying to run. The causailty here is running from the offense starts to stink therefore we cant run, not we choose not to run therefore the offense stinks. Thats been my view the last two games (though last game the defense helped by letting Tennessee milk the clock).
I have low expectations. But high hopes.
by greysquirrel on Dec 19, 2011 11:42 AM EST reply actions 3 recs
it's just sad
whenever there was a holding penalty, you knew the drive was dead.
Rec'd!
I was just sayin’ that blah blah blah .. he should be a top pick………. blah blah blah …… he’s the heat ……… swear word, cuss word……. blah blah…. I want Tebow ………. blah blah….. Buddy sucks …….. Chan sucks …… blah blah……..
- SERGEANT MAJOR THOR
by CanadianBillsFan on Dec 19, 2011 2:07 PM EST up reply actions
Thank you
For bringing up the fact that the man most football fans wish they had (Foster) had the exact same number of offensive touches as Spiller! Just because they use screens or dumpoffs instead of handoffs is irrelevant. Gailey has stated consistently that he wants to get Spiller in space and he’s attempting to do it in a variety of ways.
Secondly, wow does it feel good to see Spiller producing as was hoped when he was drafted. I like having a different style at RB than Jackson. Jackson is brilliant at making defenders miss, while C.J. outruns everyone given a tiny bit of space. Someone mentioned it yesterday (my apologies for not remembering whho) but that 24 yard TD run was a play that Jackson would not have made because he doesn’t have the speed. I think they’re a brilliant combination and can’t wait to see them together on the field next year.
Punt?! In our moment of triumph?! I think you overestimate their chances!!
Chan Gailey to Brian Moorman
by TexasBillsFanatic on Dec 19, 2011 11:45 AM EST reply actions
Correct me if i’m wrong, but Foster has been out due to injury. Some of the limit there may be based on his injury history this season. With Spiller, it’s just that Gailey finds him unable to be a dominant full-time back.
I have begun to think that the coaching may be one of the largest factors to Spiller’s being a bit of a bust up to now.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Dec 19, 2011 1:12 PM EST up reply actions
He was out at the beginning of the year for a couple weeks from a TC injury but to the best of my knowledge he’s been full go since week 2 or 3.
Punt?! In our moment of triumph?! I think you overestimate their chances!!
Chan Gailey to Brian Moorman
by TexasBillsFanatic on Dec 19, 2011 1:34 PM EST up reply actions
agreed
With the relative success of Maybin with the Jets and Spiller’s flashes since Fred went down would suggest that coaching and gameplanning has had more to do with it then many of us, myself included, would’ve guessed at the time.
Check out http://mocknfldrafts.blogspot.com/
by Billsdownunder on Dec 19, 2011 5:21 PM EST up reply actions
I’m happy to see Spiller is the weapon we were hoping for – whether that was the draft pick we needed – spiller-ed milk.
I just want him to see enough touches closing out this season for him to take the lessons he needs on how to be effective in the league, and for Gailey to get the trust in him.
I had a drink the other day
Opinions were like kittens
I was giving them away
-Modest Mouse
I’m glad Spiller is playing well…
As a total side note: Choice looks like a good pickup as a 3rd option at RB next year, right?
that's what I'd like to know
How does a running back who is on his third team in one season instantly pass a prospect on the depth chart? Did White do something wrong? Did he insult Gailey’s mother? Kick his puppy? Other than blatant favoritism for having played under Gailey at Georgia Tech, I don’t see why Choice is ahead of White.
by SiriusRed on Dec 19, 2011 12:19 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
it can be just as simple as choice being better than white…
choice being in his 3rd team doesnt mean he is bad as we have seen a million times around the league
by statcruncher on Dec 19, 2011 12:29 PM EST up reply actions
and it definitely means
hes good enough to keep getting looks
they probably just dont think whites ready. or maybe they dont think hes good enough. maybe choice is just clearly a better option.
either way it doesnt make johnny whites 2012 prospects with the team look good. bills wont be carrying 4 RBs on their team next year
Its fun to think quarterback, but i think the odds of nix taking one in the first are close to 0%.
do you think Fred gets traded?
If the Bills want to move back into the 1st round to get a QB and OLB would they use Fred as additional bait?
Check out http://mocknfldrafts.blogspot.com/
by Billsdownunder on Dec 19, 2011 5:22 PM EST up reply actions
his contract currently
coupled with production and his being is his prime, but potential downswing… I would personally have to at least test the waters, and see what his true value would be, especially if I saw someone out there that helps us immediately, say, in the mid to late first round, or early second… which is at very least what we should get, to consider letting him go.
ABAYARDE IS NOSTRADAMUS JUST WATCH WE WILL NOT YIEALD TO NOBODY YOUR SOUL WE WILL TAKE
by ThaRealTruth on Dec 19, 2011 6:55 PM EST up reply actions
I was thinking the same thing
Kinda of like the 3 back system that the Giants had running a couple of years back. There’s room for all 3 in a run first, creative offensive system.
Now let’s just see if Chan is that creative.
I was just sayin’ that blah blah blah .. he should be a top pick………. blah blah blah …… he’s the heat ……… swear word, cuss word……. blah blah…. I want Tebow ………. blah blah….. Buddy sucks …….. Chan sucks …… blah blah……..
- SERGEANT MAJOR THOR
by CanadianBillsFan on Dec 19, 2011 2:09 PM EST up reply actions
Awesome. I said it to my chiropractor this morning and to a Twitter questioner…. If Spiller is producing like this, I don’t care how many carries he gets he is not a bust.
by MattRichWarren on Dec 19, 2011 12:05 PM EST reply actions
Fred Jackson
What pisses me off the most is that Gailey did not let Spiller spell Fred Jackson more in the early parts of the season. Who knows if that could have helped keep Freddy fresh and avoid injury. Spiller is obviously an NFL ready player and while he might not be a S. Jackson/M. Turner/P. Hillis workhourse he is clearly a guy who should be getting 10-15 touches per week. Gailey mismanagement of Spiller has been atrotious. If Spiller is not an every down back then use him appropriately. If he is an every down back then use him in the Marshall Faulk mold…like how McCoy and Forte are used today.
Also who cares if he is a NFL workhorse RB…there are very few of them in the NFL as most teams need two Rbs to compliment each other. The problem is that when Freddy was healthy Gailey didn’t use Spiller as the proper compliment.
by Berg79 on Dec 19, 2011 12:17 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
Not exactly
Fred was so good you could not take carries away from him, he was averaging over five yards a carry, catching the second most balls on the team and really just ridiculous. His injury isnt really carry or touch related, he didnt strain or tear anything, he had an unfortunate break.
by SPCtacular1 on Dec 19, 2011 12:56 PM EST up reply actions
right
I sincerely hope less than 20 touches a game isn’t more than Fred can handle.
ABAYARDE IS NOSTRADAMUS JUST WATCH WE WILL NOT YIEALD TO NOBODY YOUR SOUL WE WILL TAKE
by ThaRealTruth on Dec 19, 2011 1:54 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Freddy was averaging way to many touches per game. 20 carries per game is 320 carries in a season which would put you in the top 3 RB’s. Freddy is not built for that kind of workload. Add the amount of catches and he was touching the ball too much and got worn down.
this is just wrong
he wasn’t averaging 20 carries, ever. he only MANAGED 20 carries in 3 games. Unless you are talking total touches in which case, his 3-5 receptions a game puts him around 20 touches. His actual 10 game average carries was 17, and his last two games were 13, and 7(though this was game he was injured, and didn’t play the final quarter) .
Fred is big for a RB. at 6’1", and 215, he is a little longer than most backs, but has shown that his stride gets him chunks at a time, and I didn’t see him being “run too much” or worn down at any point in the season.
IF THAT HAD BEEN THE CASE: we should have been using Spiller. Instead, Chan didn’t want to remove touches from Fred, and somehow couldn’t find a way to add them for Spiller (novel idea: take some of Fitz’s 40 throws, and turn 5-7 into Spiller carries- WHOA! WHAT AN AMAZING IDEA!! Too bad our “genius” offensive mind for a HC/OC/QB coach/Gameplanner/(Whatever other job you wanna give him cuz i am sure he will take it- better than NO job like after the Chiefs…….. ) somehow he couldn’t think that maybe taking touches FROM his 7th round QB and giving them TO his 1st round RB was just out of the question.
ABAYARDE IS NOSTRADAMUS JUST WATCH WE WILL NOT YIEALD TO NOBODY YOUR SOUL WE WILL TAKE
by ThaRealTruth on Dec 19, 2011 4:08 PM EST up reply actions
Semantics
In first nine games Fred Jackson had 163 carries or 18.11 per game which equates to 289.77 carries over 16 games. So technically he was not on pace for 300 carries but he is still too small and too old for more than 250. Unless you are under 25 or a bruiser you should not average more than 15 carries per games especially considering how many catches he had. 6’1’’ 215 is not big.
There are not many 30 year old backs who can last a season like that and I don’t buy the argument of he had fewer carries than most throughout that point in his career.
There are not many 30 year old backs who can last a season like that and I don’t buy the argument of he had fewer carries than most throughout that point in his career.
sorry, did I say that? Nope. Didn’t.
In first nine games Fred Jackson had 163 carries or 18.11 per game which equates to 289.77 carries over 16 games.
i am sorry. apparently 18 is the new 20.
So technically he was not on pace for 300 carries but he is still too small and too old for more than 250.
And this is because…. oh, right… you say so.
Unless you are under 25 or a bruiser you should not average more than 15 carries per games especially considering how many catches he had. 6’1’’ 215 is not big.
so, he is taller than average, for running backs, over the course of the last 20 years, and just as big. So why is it then, that he is not capable of sustaining? Because, he has, up til this point in his career, and then, broke a bone, like a number of players do in and out each year, on every team?
ABAYARDE IS NOSTRADAMUS JUST WATCH WE WILL NOT YIEALD TO NOBODY YOUR SOUL WE WILL TAKE
by ThaRealTruth on Dec 19, 2011 10:40 PM EST up reply actions
Nice article, Brian!!!!!!
(Only 6 exclamation points for praise, as opposed to 7 for complaints).
"Teams that don't deserve to win.... usually don’t. Today is no exception." -- Mr Huge Pecs
"Nick Barnett is everywhere. He is behind you right now." -- Munchausen
by ChuckBuffInFlo on Dec 19, 2011 12:18 PM EST reply actions
The problem with Spiller's stats
is that they are padded.
A couple of our scoring drives were when Miami was in prevent mode and stopped blitzing and allowed us to march down the field. Fitz’s stats at the end of the day looked decent. But what we want is the kind of stats that move the chains when the game is still in the balance.
so while Spiller breaks through a couple of times, he can’t be relied on to be a consistent threat to move the chains when it counts. I’d rather have a 3.5 yds/carry average if it means that he can get 3 yards when we need 2 on 3rd down.
I like Spiller and I want him to do well. But I think toy reference is a clumsy way of saying what more sober analysts would call “a luxury pick.” Spiller was just too shinny to pass up, when we could have gone in other directions. When you make a pick like that, the pick must exceed expectations and not just have good days. Spiller, unfortunately, will not meet those expectations just as Reggie Bush will never justify is selection in the draft. However, if Spiller pulls a Desmond Howard in his career, i.e., never meet expectations but play a role in wining a Super Bowl, then life will be good.
Not just that, but Spilled was drafted to play a position where the Bills already had two solid options — Jackson and Lynch. For a team with so many issues, it was definitely a luxury pick. However, given the “pop-gun” offense that the team had displayed for several years, it’s easy to see why they thought they might need him. He won’t ever be an every-down type of back, but he doesn’t need to be. Reggie Bush never was.
I still think we’re seeing positive signs from him this year, as well as solid improvement. There is no doubt that he is the home run threat Gailey and Nix thought he would be. Anybody calling him a bust right now isn’t taking an objective look at how he has played this year.
by SiriusRed on Dec 19, 2011 12:26 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
NOT a bust
i agree. (Maybin wound’t have been a bust either unless we had GOOD Coaching!!! look at how he’s doing on the Jets!)
by rickyd-2011 on Dec 19, 2011 12:35 PM EST up reply actions
Good Coaching
Yeah thats all that matters, is having a good coach. Forget about the elite guys that train yr round to crush the other guy, you know players! Our Bill’s team has like how many all-pro’s? Instead we got Merrimans and Kelsay’s , better have a really, really good coach in Buffalo
If you didn't like my last post wait till you read the next! :) Until we draft/acquire franchise QB we'll be setting records for losing soon!
by buffalobacker on Dec 19, 2011 12:43 PM EST up reply actions
so you agree?
a good team of “all-pros” is nothing unless you have good coaches to organize it. that’s my point.
by rickyd-2011 on Dec 19, 2011 12:47 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah
Right. ;)
If you didn't like my last post wait till you read the next! :) Until we draft/acquire franchise QB we'll be setting records for losing soon!
by buffalobacker on Dec 19, 2011 1:05 PM EST up reply actions
Maybin didn’t even show up on the stat sheet for the Jets the last 2 games… no tackles, no sacks. He’s made a few plays this year, but I think it’s more a result of everyone else on the Jets defense doing their job so well, that he has the opportunity to use the limited skill set he has.
by wallyvoodoo on Dec 19, 2011 12:47 PM EST up reply actions
he was used appropriately
the coaches knew how to use him at the right time and it’s paid off. a sack on 3rd and 8, a QB rush on 2nd and long…..etc.etc. .plays like that can make a difference in the GAME. do what it takes to win.
by rickyd-2011 on Dec 19, 2011 12:49 PM EST up reply actions
disagree re: Maybin
Regardless of what the stats sheet says this year, Maybin is still a bust. The Bills drafted him to be a 4-3 DE, and considering he weighed in at 245-250 pounds at the combine, expecting him to play that position in the NFL was sheer stupidity. He was down to 225 at the start of this year, making him too small to even play OLB. Unless he can somehow bulk up significantly (without resorting to steroids), he will never be anything more than a role player, which is all he is with the Jets. He is nothing more than a designated pass rusher, as he is too small to be useful against the run and does not cover well if he drops back into coverage. For what the Jets paid, he’s a steal. For what the Bills paid and where they drafted him, he was a complete failure.
by SiriusRed on Dec 19, 2011 1:26 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Just a thought
Again, assuming this is a “five year plan,” it’s possible that Nix thought of Spiller as a talent that doesn’t come along every year, and snagged him with the intention of having him at the top of his game a few years down the road, when (presumably) the rest of the team is fixed. The 2011 draft is looking better every game, and it will be interesting to see what happens next year if they have a good impact player drafted in 2012, plus get Williams, Jackson, Wood etc. back healthy. I agree with Chan, why burn the guy out now for a team that is going absolutely nowhere? Give him enough of an opportunity to keep his spirits up and have a more useful role for him next year.
by wallyvoodoo on Dec 19, 2011 12:43 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
But they’ll never resign him. He’s a first round pick and we all know what happens with those guys.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Dec 19, 2011 1:18 PM EST up reply actions
doesn't seem likely
Nix and Gailey said when they drafted him they wanted a home-run threat as they felt the offense lacked a big playmaker. Obviously since then we’ve seen the team lacked a lot more than perhaps what was apparent with Jauron’s 7-9 teams but certainly at the time they wanted him to contribute immediately.
Check out http://mocknfldrafts.blogspot.com/
by Billsdownunder on Dec 19, 2011 5:25 PM EST up reply actions
Chan is just keeping the mileage low on his his fancy new “toy”. Better then getting him hurt as he learns the trade.
Harooo
by Robot Nixon on Dec 19, 2011 12:24 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Give them a role to play
My beef with the use of Choice / Spiller is that no one back really has a set role. Many of Choice’s touches were on screens, where he was set up to carry the ball in space. Spiller was used he same way in many circumstances as well.
We really don’t seem to be too versatile in the way we use our backs. For example, who’s our 3rd and short guy, who plows the ball over the goal line, and who’s our change of pace? Right now, I see Freddy being used much the same as Spiller, who’s being used much the same way as Choice. It seems that Chan hasn’t really figured out yet what role two of his most talented offensive players will play on the team. It’s the been same thing with the offensive linemen and with the linebackers at various points this year. There’s no excuse…Chan’s got to know their strengths & weaknesses, and make sure they perform the roles that they are individually best suited for.
by NoiseIsTheBestRevenge on Dec 19, 2011 12:20 PM EST reply actions
I agree.
poor coaching, bad results, plenty of dissapointment
by rickyd-2011 on Dec 19, 2011 12:23 PM EST up reply actions
But if U use the same back for the same plays it becomes predictable
If spiller never carries it inside there not gonna be worried about it, if choice never catches balls they wont worry about it. You have to be dynamic and keep the defense off balance.
but Gailey is there for a reason- he's supposed to KNOW THIS already
it’s a job. do it or get replaced. If you’re QB sucks, think of another way to win
Spiller up the middle
CJ Spiller’s TD run early on was straight up the middle, as was the long run before it, and he had at least one other really good run right up the gut.
He had plenty of inside runs, some only went 3-4 yards, but I consider that a success (not -2 yards like last year). All this “he only runs outside” stuff is a dated argument.
I have low expectations. But high hopes.
by greysquirrel on Dec 19, 2011 1:42 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Gailey
is a joke. Nix better fire this clown next yr. I don’t see us improving much next yr either. Especially if Gailey decides to keep Edwards and his offense remains to be the same bunch of crap it is now.
Yeah
Way to coach and play Chan.
If you didn't like my last post wait till you read the next! :) Until we draft/acquire franchise QB we'll be setting records for losing soon!
by buffalobacker on Dec 20, 2011 1:23 PM EST up reply actions
We're trying not to wear the guy completely out. ... I don't think he can go out there and carry it 25 or 30 times
Chan Gaily is an idiot sometimes. I thought he was gonna be a great coach and now this…Spiller is 24 years old!!! he’s ripped, in great shape (or so it seems) …I didn’t see him getting tired! they should have kept feeding him the rock!! WTF! should never have abandoned the running game. (Fitz should never have had that contract done yet either.)
The life span of a running back is 6 years on average a few go beyond that
Spiller isnt a 240 ilb brusier he is our 185 ilb waterbug back hits are not good for spiller
2011 author-mod pick'em -poz
I'll knock the bieber out of brady - arthur moats @dabody52
2011 -adopted offensive player roscoe parrish(IR) david nelson
2011-adopted defensive player arthur moats
by Gpluehri on Dec 19, 2011 12:59 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
yeah....so? he only had 21 touches! 25 would have been fine too. the season is almost over
there were times Fitz shouldn’t have passed and they should have run it again – ok, so use Choice more then.
there was a time
Fitz should have been benched, but Gailey left him in the game. haha
Spiller can be hurt just as easily on 12 carries as he can on 22 carries. If he’s a risk to the offense in that regard, he’s not trustworthy and that’s my concern. They don’t need part-time, situational players in the first round.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Dec 19, 2011 1:21 PM EST up reply actions 2 recs
Agreed. Bout the first round pick
I believe buffalo is trying to avoid what happened to chris johnson who has obviously lost a step
2011 author-mod pick'em -poz
I'll knock the bieber out of brady - arthur moats @dabody52
2011 -adopted offensive player roscoe parrish(IR) david nelson
2011-adopted defensive player arthur moats
by Gpluehri on Dec 19, 2011 3:30 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Unless he becomes trade bait for an elite player, I hope he’s around for a long time because I just bought his premiere jersey for 89 bucks on nfl shop. Go spiller. But I do hope he bulks up and puts on 15 pounds. Hes thin for a rb.
"They’re a very special group of men. Cherish them, you will not see their like again."
by chaucer on Dec 19, 2011 12:27 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Freddie, CJ and Choice
3 good backs that could be a great set for moving the ball….provided the proper plays are called. The play calling has sucked where short passes should have been used also due to Fitz’s slump.
by rickyd-2011 on Dec 19, 2011 12:30 PM EST up reply actions
choice is a free agent after 2011… bills might just let him go after this year
by statcruncher on Dec 19, 2011 12:34 PM EST up reply actions
Spiller is ripped
If you look at the guy, he is absolutely ripped. He doesn’t need to put on weight…he is who he is
not exactly a bust
We have to differentiate between a bust and a bad pick. With Freddie out and more touches he is showing he can put up big numbers in the NFL. He is a good receiver and has improved in the more subtle aspects of the game. He should be getting more hand offs and pitches.
It’s fitting he played against Bush yesterday because their two football careers are pretty similar. Look at Bush’s stat line (203 rushing yards) and it makes you think of what Spiller is capable of if he got 25 carries a game. The long run that Bush broke had him go from a nice day running the ball (125 yards) to a great day. Spiller with his speed is capable of hitting home runs like that, but would benefit greatly from a few more touches a game to do it.
Also, I didn’t like Chan’s comment about not being the biggest back. He’s 5’11", 197. How about 3 backs on similar physical stature who had big workloads and big numbers (Tiki Barber 5’10", 205; Barry Sanders 5’8", 203; Thurman 5’10", 206). From what I’ve seen CJ has the ability to be this caliber RB. Time for Chan to take off the training wheels, particularly with Freddie out and Fitz throwing some of the ugliest passes in the NFL week in and week out.
The bigger question will be moving forward does it make sense to have both Freddie and Spiller on the team?
"There were a lot of guys that were disappointed, frustrated and down, me included."
- Ryan Fitzpatrick
by Ethan Abeles on Dec 19, 2011 12:33 PM EST reply actions 2 recs
i dont think you can separate a bad pick and a bust
kyle calloway was picked in 7th round… he didnt pan out no big deal… you wont call calloway a bust because he is just a 7th round gamble…
spiller is a first round pick when you didnt need him… if he doesnt produce like a 9th overall pick then he is a bust… it depends on your investment…. if there is not an appropriate return on investment it is a busted investment…
by statcruncher on Dec 19, 2011 12:41 PM EST up reply actions
i think the distinction might be
spiller might not be a bust but the pick is definitely a bust
by statcruncher on Dec 19, 2011 12:42 PM EST up reply actions
how is that?
they knew they were getting rid of Lynch so they got the “next best thing.”
by rickyd-2011 on Dec 19, 2011 12:46 PM EST up reply actions
I think he’s just saying even if Spiller contributes it was a strategic error to take a “waterbug” back at 9. It might not mean he’s a bust, in the sense he doesnt contribute or he was entirely misevaluted, just that he think regardless of Spiller’s performance we could have picked a position of greater impact.
I think this is a fair argument, though I think the sin of filling the wrong position is much more forgivable than the sin of just “missing”, because misses are zeros, the wrong position can still contribute, and if its crowded you can still trade someone.
I have low expectations. But high hopes.
by greysquirrel on Dec 19, 2011 12:54 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
i hear ya
well, i agree that Nix’s answer to taking spiller was that “he was the best available athlete” at that time – i don’t recall now who they could have taken to fill a more needy position, but I’m sure they could have gone that way also. either way, I think Spiller will do just fine in Gaily’s offensive scheme
by rickyd-2011 on Dec 19, 2011 12:58 PM EST up reply actions
They need to start thinking about who are the best athletes that will play the most in a Bills uniform.
Fred Jackson is a Nissan GTR and Spiller is a ZR1. There’s no need to drive the vette when the GTR scares the hell out of everyone in its way.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Dec 19, 2011 1:26 PM EST up reply actions
not to mention
that he probably reminded Chan of Jamaal Charles, and knew there was no way he would have fallen as late given Charles’ success in his late second, and third seasons. SO…. You go get the guy that you want, when he is there, and you walk away happy, like he did. And, now that he has shown him off a little, to see how he has developed, he probably doesn’t want too many people to know exactly what he has… so that we can roll him out proper next year.
Or Chan is an idiot, not a genius, and he will be fired like the other “offensive geniuses” we had in Fairchild (“run, run, pass, punt” as I called him) or Mularkey (spelled?)- the very same guy who would be just as happy calling a triple reverse flea flicker statue of liberty with Jason Peters running the ball down the field, as he would a friggin stretch play.
ABAYARDE IS NOSTRADAMUS JUST WATCH WE WILL NOT YIEALD TO NOBODY YOUR SOUL WE WILL TAKE
by ThaRealTruth on Dec 19, 2011 11:08 PM EST up reply actions
grey said it better than i did. spiller is a legit nfl player. maybe capable of putting up huge numbers just hasn’t been given the opportunity. much different than a pick who just totally blows and can’t make it onto the field. my point is CJ should be worked into the game plan even more. maybe they shouldn’t have picked him and addressed more dire needs, but no going back so let’s just roll with him. and he’s looking really good!
"There were a lot of guys that were disappointed, frustrated and down, me included."
- Ryan Fitzpatrick
by Ethan Abeles on Dec 19, 2011 12:59 PM EST up reply actions
i couldn't agree more.
I also think 5 more touches wouldn’t have “tired him out” like Chan thought…whatever. i’m done ranting. yesterdays loss sent me over the edge. I think i’ll start rooting for the seahawks now…lol
Your logic
Is very, very poor. Horrible actually
Thurman was 198 lbs in his prime. Trust me. I shouldn’t know this, but I do.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Dec 19, 2011 1:23 PM EST up reply actions
I’d rather him be able to do four years of 250-275 touches than have two years of 350-375 and then two years of leg problems where he rushes a total of 150 times.
We have seen that most running backs can’t consistently do over 300 carries/ 350 touches.
They break down.
Sooooo
We are preserving him for another team? Because the way this Franchise treats RB’s and good players; he won’t be here after his rookie contract is up…We don’t keep our best players nor do we extend them….kyle is the only exception during this regime….
seems like it
they’ll find a way to screw things up again. i agree with everyone on this whole post. now i’m just getting pissed and annoyed. yes, they should have used CJ more earlier this season. if they did, perhaps Freddie would never have been injured.
by rickyd-2011 on Dec 19, 2011 12:42 PM EST up reply actions
no
the eternally present kelsay is a double exception…
by statcruncher on Dec 19, 2011 12:44 PM EST up reply actions
Exactly right! RB’s wear out from too much use, it’s the toughest job on the field. Gailey got effective yardage out of both Spiller and Choice, who could ask for more? I give Gailey credit for prudent use of his assets.
if only some of those plays weren’t called back for Holding!! WHY is it that so far, a good player signs a big contract, and then plays like CRAP! – rigth tackle Pears!!!!!
by rickyd-2011 on Dec 19, 2011 1:01 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Pears to Miami Defense “Hey, did you hear about my contract?” “Wait, wait, hold on, did you hear much I’m making?” “Don’t go anywhere yet, I haven’t finished telling you about my guarantees!”…….Whistle blows…“Holding!”….
Fitzpatrick comes over to console him….“It’s ok man, I feel your pain, I look out and I see $afeties and ¢ornerbacks and £inebackers…money money money”
by monk43085 on Dec 19, 2011 2:44 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
It makes no sense to me that the guy from WGR is calling him nothing but a toy and a bust. Since Freddie has gone down it has given CJ his first real shot to be the guy for Buffalo at RB. He has actually played pretty well people. Especially after this last game where he was probably our best player on the field? Doesn’t make sense to me. After a horrible team effort like that? I think we have a lot more issues that could have been talked about rather than calling the dude a bust after about 3 or 4 games he’s started and hasn’t played bad.
Nice article, but...
the only issue I have with it, is that you CJ was barely getting touches when Fred was out there…If Fred didn’t have to split snaps with the number 9 pick; why should your #9 pick overall has to split snaps with a guy like Choice? Especially, since CJ was popping long runs all afternoon….
My issue with Choice
Has very little to do with the reps he takes from Spiller, but instead the reps he takes from rookie Johnny White. Why isn’t he getting the ball instead of Choice during this “lost” season? It confounds me. It can advance his development for next year, etc. if they give him some more carries and looks this year. The conspiracy theorist in me thinks Choice is their contingency plan if they get rid of Jackson b/c of the contract issues. But, since I have no idea what Choice’s contract status is and b/c I’m too lazy to google it….
Thank you thank you thank you thank you sireric for bringing the furious punching cat back into my life. - poz
by bluecollarbuffalo on Dec 19, 2011 12:41 PM EST reply actions
Fair Question
Me thinks Chan really trying to win and feel Choice gives him better option than a rookie. White will get his reps if earned. Unless Chan thinks hes to tiny:)
If you didn't like my last post wait till you read the next! :) Until we draft/acquire franchise QB we'll be setting records for losing soon!
by buffalobacker on Dec 19, 2011 12:45 PM EST up reply actions
I doubt the few touches Choice gets really factors into Gailey thinking he has a better shot at winning.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Dec 19, 2011 1:34 PM EST up reply actions
Very valid point.
"There is not a loser in this room." Marv Levy.
by SERGEANT MAJOR THOR on Dec 19, 2011 5:26 PM EST up reply actions
What good is fresh is you never take it out of the box? It’s like a toy that someone’s afraid of removing from the package because of its perceived value.
Gailey isn’t doing himself any favors by holding Spiller back. The criticism will only grow as a result.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Dec 19, 2011 1:09 PM EST reply actions
A lot of people complained he was holding Freddy back earlier this year, then he got a broken leg. You could also see Freddy also had a left hand/wrist injury, that might have contributed to the fumbles he had. You need a deep roster of RB’s to do well in today’s league.
A real complaint might be that Gailey didn’t use Spiller enough early in the year, that might have prolonged Jackson’s season. I was vocal in preseason that the Bills needed a third RB, that’s the role Choice has now. Jackson/Spiller/Choice is a good set for next year.
Why this week?
I’ve been a hater of the choice of drafting Spiller. But why go off ranting on him after the game he had yesterday? Why not rant about him after a game where he doesnt do anything?
I think the disappointment of losing 7 straight games, and looking like the Bills are gonna go 5-11 this season, is finally getting to people and just making them snap. As much as I would have preferred Chix drafting o-line help or a pass rusher or whatever when they took Spiller, nothing can be done about that now. And he does seem like he’s getting better as time goes by. Its nice to have a solid #2 back.
And Brian is right, if he could score 2 touchdowns a game on a consistent basis, I don’t care how many touches he gets.
Very encouraging
Spiller is showing improvement each game, he now is setting up his blocks and making his cuts off them. He has now becoming a threat in the backfield and out on pass routes.
It’s past the point of Spiller being mentioned in the same sentence as the word bust. He should be mentioned now as a star on the rise….
.
"I wouldn't ever set out to hurt anyone deliberately unless it was important -- like a league game."
Dick Butkus
Yeah
30 something, slightly used productive RB will consider all offers! Sounds like ML. Funny could happen;)
If you didn't like my last post wait till you read the next! :) Until we draft/acquire franchise QB we'll be setting records for losing soon!
by buffalobacker on Dec 19, 2011 1:34 PM EST up reply actions
Is it possible the bills will look to trade Freddie
I mean CJ is looking better and it looks as though Chan likes Choice. Could they possibly look at trading the aging Freddie? I’m a hudge fan of his but when a RB hits 30 they tend to decline. I would have to think they could get a lot for the talented running back.
They haven’t won any games with the combination of Spiller and Choice.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Dec 19, 2011 1:36 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I'm with you
I believe Fred is trade bait next yr with the emergence of Spiller and the addition of Choice. This will be the perfect time to get some kind of compensation from Fred. Next year will his contract yr and his production will decrease to make room for CJ. Now is the time for the FO to see what they can get for him IMO, as much I love Fred.
Couldn’t agree more:
Thank you thank you thank you thank you sireric for bringing the furious punching cat back into my life. - poz
by bluecollarbuffalo on Dec 19, 2011 10:01 PM EST up reply actions
Compensation
For FJ, not worth it. Keep him he runs well, why trade away our talent we have like none already.
If you didn't like my last post wait till you read the next! :) Until we draft/acquire franchise QB we'll be setting records for losing soon!
by buffalobacker on Dec 20, 2011 1:25 PM EST up reply actions
That's crazy.
You need to good backs in this league. Both, gives them a nice 1-2 punch.
Gailey doesn't want to do the same thing to Spiller...
As he did to Freddy? That’s how I read the article here.
Sounds to me like Gailey learned his lesson the hard way with Freddy.
For what Spiller is, taking him 9th overall was a mistake.
But he’s not a bust; he’s an overdraft. And he’s been ok since Jackson was hurt.
What frustrates me is that he doesn’t seem to be the player I thought the Bills were drafting (which could just be me overrating him). He’s not nearly as fast as I thought and he can’t make defenders miss. I was expecting a Sproles-like impact. There’s no doubt that Sproles is super-fast when he gets the ball.
Sproles is like Sonic the Hedgehog.
"Go check on the ribs!"
by TheAfghanTwilight on Dec 19, 2011 1:37 PM EST up reply actions
Seriously???
Spiller is fast as hell. It also took Spoles a while to become the player he is today, and he is probably the best in the league at being the “type” of back that he is
Drew Brees
Doesn’t hurt either….or having a Heisman winner as the other RB
Yep
Having a franchise qb makes all other players look better! Its not rocket science here, we need a franchise type qb, at least try to get one!
If you didn't like my last post wait till you read the next! :) Until we draft/acquire franchise QB we'll be setting records for losing soon!
by buffalobacker on Dec 20, 2011 1:27 PM EST up reply actions
we get it already…get a franchise qb. lets go to the franchise qb store and pick one up later today.
or better yet lets draft a qb with our first 5 picks regardless of who they are then we will increase our odds of having that franchise qb
by Air Compressor on Dec 21, 2011 7:27 AM EST up reply actions
if you dont think he is fast you havent watched him play.
He beats guys to the corner every time…
You are now Watching The Throne.
I don't agree with Chan
If Spiller was hot then keep riding him. Every now and then a player gets in the groove, the coach can’t be so inflexible as to stay with his game plan and not ride the hot hand. I don’t care yesterday about the game plan, Spiller should have gotten 30 touches, he was very, very effective.
Eneough with the spiller pick!!
It was a good pick, we knew we were gettin rid of lynch. Who had like 3 100 yard games prior to this season. To me that want worth the 12 overall pick in 2007. We had no idea Freddy was this good. And who else should we have drafted. Bulaga a right tackle no way!! There was no better value then cj spiller who is turnig out to b just as good as advertised… Gaily please let this man ball it up!!
by edrick88 on Dec 19, 2011 1:45 PM EST via mobile reply actions 1 recs
but if Gailey’s toys are throwing up 167 yards and two touchdowns against the NFL’s No. 3 run defense (and No. 15 overall defense), that’s when you need to quiet down for a while.
Rec’d the article right there before even reading the rest.
I was just sayin’ that blah blah blah .. he should be a top pick………. blah blah blah …… he’s the heat ……… swear word, cuss word……. blah blah…. I want Tebow ………. blah blah….. Buddy sucks …….. Chan sucks …… blah blah……..
- SERGEANT MAJOR THOR
by CanadianBillsFan on Dec 19, 2011 1:59 PM EST reply actions
I'm thinking that now that CJ has found his rhythm...
We may have a killer duo next year.
I was just sayin’ that blah blah blah .. he should be a top pick………. blah blah blah …… he’s the heat ……… swear word, cuss word……. blah blah…. I want Tebow ………. blah blah….. Buddy sucks …….. Chan sucks …… blah blah……..
- SERGEANT MAJOR THOR
by CanadianBillsFan on Dec 19, 2011 2:07 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah, me too...
A killer duo in CJ and Choice. I think Fred will either be tested on the trade market or forced to play out the remainder of his contract with no extension. If Gailey couldn’t figure out how to best utilize CJ when Fred was playing, what makes me think he will know what to do with 3 backs in Fred, Spiller and Choice? Not to mention Johnny White. If you keep Fred on the team, that means Spiller’s carries get cut again and he is back to the “gumbo” role he played; a little bit of this and a little bit of that. Doing that to him will only further delay his progress and will actually stunt his development. If Gailey said that he doesn’t want to give Spiller 25-30 carries a game right now, doesn’t that imply that he is slowly going to work him into the starting job? If he wants to increase CJ’s load yet we keep Fred, whose carries will he be taking away? If Fred stays next yr to finish out his contract look for his carries to decrease substantially to give room for CJ. That’s normally what happens to players in a contract yr from their teams who don’t look to resign them. Their production drops by virtue of being slowly taken out of the gameplan.
Freddy, Spiller, Choice.
I think Johnny White is as good as gone next year.
I love the way CJ ran the ball on the ground and ran after the catch this week, and I would have lied to see more, but looking back… Choice did a pretty good job when called upon.
Come on Buffalo, please?
The real issue at hand, is that we see Choice as a potential starter (he got reps) and that with Fred back, the two of them are better in pass pro. Spiller is definitely the more explosive guy. If we use the saints as our model- which I have done consistently regarding this offense- we have spiller to be like sproles, Fred is probably most closely Pierre (or rather Pierre wishes he was Fred) and choice and Ingram have similar involvement, though in the future Ingram will be like Fred, and Thomas like choice. If we can find a way to be productive at qb and wr again… We will see a lot of split reps at rb. This isn’t necessarily a new idea, and I don’t see why it reflects at all on the individual (spiller). It clearly says Chan wants an offense featuring many weapons, from different positions, and he would like to move them around (ie cj/Fred at wr) to take advantage of matchups. So far, I haven’t seen enough effective offense to know what he will do next season… But one thing I expect, is active involvement from all 3 veteran rbs, and hopefully a shiny new wr (or even easley or aiken) to help the offense. I still think with the large line, and shifty backs we have, we are dumb not to run more. Fitz is not a good enough qb to warrant 40 throws and more a game.
ABAYARDE IS NOSTRADAMUS JUST WATCH WE WILL NOT YIEALD TO NOBODY YOUR SOUL WE WILL TAKE
by ThaRealTruth on Dec 19, 2011 2:06 PM EST via mobile reply actions
No to Fitz
How about a shiny new QB? Fitz is bad. It has nothing to do with him losing starters on offense. Stevie is still here, and so is Nelson. Chandler? He was underutilized IMO to begin with so I don’t see how he is missed in terms of his production thus far. Although, I personally miss his potential production IF Chan would actually take advantage of Chandler’s skills and the mismatches he brings (some offensive genius).
As far a WR is concerned, we better resign Stevie. None of our depth receivers have proven that they can actually be stars on this team. If they allow Stevie to walk and just move another “unproven” up on the depth chart we will be in the same position we’re in now; lack of quality depth. We do need another top WR. I’m just not sure I would be ready to place all of my eggs in Easley’s basket just yet. Give him time to work his way up the ranks and prove he can actually remain healthy for a season before we anoint him to be our #2 WR opposite Stevie or #1 WR if we let Stevie walk. The only starter I see as being expendable is Fred. I know that sounds harsh but think about it. He is in his prime now. But, we have a 1st rd RB this regime signed a couple yrs ago who they need to get their $ from. Spiller and Choice are a good team. Fred should yield us a pretty good pick (2nd rd) for this year’s draft. We could use that pick to find us another talented player to add to this team. As much as I would love to draft Justin Blackmon, I don’t think having him on this team will help Fitz any. Fitz will always be what he has shown us now; a pretty good backup.
Here’s the question though because our defense needs help bad! What position do you address first in April? QB or pass rushing OLB/DE (depending on 3-4/4-3)? If our potential franchise QB is sitting there for us, do we grab him or do we pass him up to fix our pass rush? A lot of that depends on if edwards is here in the offseason or not. If he’s gone and Wannstedt gets the DC job, then we need to determine if we are going back to the 4-3 or sticking with the 3-4. That will let you know whether you go for a 3-4 pass rushing OLB or a 4-3 pass rushing DE. A lot of questions need to be answered indeed.
i personally agree with much of what you have to say, think, or feel there.
Unfortunately Chan doesn’t agree. Fitz will be the guy. We probably don’t get a new qb.
As far as wr goes- I agree. We can’t afford to lose Steve, and we CAN afford to pay him. No brainer. As far as adding one- my fear is that Chan is locked into this system to the degree he feels that any wr is a weapon, if used right. Unfortunately he doesn’t even use the weapons at his disposal (agree on Chandler. Honorable mentions to naaman, to spiller, to aiken for not even making an appearance) and I don’t know that we would get much out of an early selection. I just know that they are still looking for a #2 (and maybe a #1). So, I expect someone to be an added element next year, whether it be one we have, or one we draft.
I see that Fred could be “expendable” to some degree, but this team is nothing without him in the start of the season. We can not afford to let him go, and we CAN afford to pay him, also.
We definitely will target pass-rushers, and probably a corner or two, either in draft or undrafted rookies, IMO.
Finally: as far as blackmon- he couldn’t HURT fitz’s potential. He could maybe be an effective qb, when he can learn how to use his feet.
ABAYARDE IS NOSTRADAMUS JUST WATCH WE WILL NOT YIEALD TO NOBODY YOUR SOUL WE WILL TAKE
by ThaRealTruth on Dec 19, 2011 3:35 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
My feelings exactly...
I still think with the large line, and shifty backs we have, we are dumb not to run more. Fitz is not a good enough qb to warrant 40 throws and more a game.
"A deaf person can hear better than a ignorant person."- Unknown Comedian
Wow Chan! Really?
Isn’t this the same kind of treatment Sean Payton dished out to his former “star” Reggie Bush? So, he gets released then picked up by a coach who believed he could be an every down back. Now, he’s on pace to crack the 1,000 yd rushing mark. I think Spiller has proven that he can in fact be an every down back when given the opportunity (carries). Now, I wouldn’t throw him out there and immediately give him the ball 25-30 times a game seeing as how he’s not used to it. I would gradually increase his carry load each game. But for Gailey to say that he is incapable of doing it because of his “size” or lack thereof is a slap in the face IMO. How dare Gailey say that about Spiller who kept the Bills in a position to win Sunday when his"franchise" qb Fitz single-handedly lost us not only this game, but perhaps one could argue the second half of the season after being given that questionable contract extension? What a chump! That comment should serve as sheer motivation for Spiller to go ham (hard as a mutha) this offseason and prove Gailey wrong. The more I watch this team and listen to Gailey and Fitz’ postgame interviews the more I’m reminded of Jauron and Edwards. No fire, no accountability. I’m calling for Gailey’s head (I aint forgot about George Edwards either) because they are pathetic. At least Jauron gave us 7-9. Gailey and his loyalty to Fitz is the reason for our collapse. I know we don’t have much of a backup option in Thigpen but dang, Fitz killed us yesterday and should have been benched. We suck anyway. We’re out of the playoffs. We have absolutely nothing to lose. At least Fitz being benched would have sent a message to the rest of the team that nobody’s job is safe.
Call me nuts but I actually like Chan's approach regarding spiller... for now anyways.
I know that I’m going to be repeating myself a lot while saying this, but he’s handling Spiller much in the same way that he handled Jamaal Charles for the Chiefs. Don’t give him too much too early. Spiller did look winded at times, and asking him to do too much might be a bad idea.
And since our season is over, as far as the playoffs are concerned, our coaching staff should be more concerned with developing talent properly. I mean yes of course you want to win games, that’s always your first priority. BUT you must also develop your players properly. I think that Chan is doing just that with CJ.
I was just sayin’ that blah blah blah .. he should be a top pick………. blah blah blah …… he’s the heat ……… swear word, cuss word……. blah blah…. I want Tebow ………. blah blah….. Buddy sucks …….. Chan sucks …… blah blah……..
- SERGEANT MAJOR THOR
by CanadianBillsFan on Dec 19, 2011 2:37 PM EST up reply actions
I thought that's what I said?
Now, I wouldn’t throw him out there and immediately give him the ball 25-30 times a game seeing as how he’s not used to it. I would gradually increase his carry load each game.
I was addressing Gailey’s comment regarding Spiller being too small to carry the load of an every down back:
He’s not the biggest back in the world. I don’t think he can go out there and carry it 25 or 30 times. I don’t want to put him in that position right now to carry it 25 or 30 times.
Oops. Now I see where he said “right now.” So, I guess Gailey gets a pass…for now.
YOu guys are having the same convo’s that I’ve seen at the Saints board for years about Bush. The thing is, it’s most like the the coaching scheme. Payton tried to limit Bush to a 3rd down role and that’s not going to fly with a player that has spent his whole life expecting more of himself. That’s called competitive spirit and drive. The fans in NO constantly called him a bust and analyst said he couldn’t run between the tackles and etc., I always said that he didn’t have to be a bruiser back but he needed the touches to prove he could do things. He went to Miami got a coach that asked him what type of running plays he likes and worked those into the playbook and now look, the fool is about to hit his first 1000 yard season in his career!
It’s all about scheme and coaching. Look at Lesean McCoy, Chris Johnson (well in previous years) and other backs that are of the same build as Bush and Spiller. You have to use them right. Running them up the gut and expecting something spectacular isn’t going to happen. Use the counters, the off-tackle runs and etc., stuff that gives them the option of busting it outside. Then watch them do wonders. Trust me, I’ve followed Bush for years and it’s all about scheme. Andy Reid turned McCoy into an NFL leading back and he’s an east/west runner so Spiller can definitely be the same.
Haters gon' hate...
As much as I would love for Buffalo philosophy be to run more
I don’t think Spiller’s touches were the problem this week. It was Fitz’s missed passes and 3 interception’s that really cruelled any chance of a win.
Check out http://mocknfldrafts.blogspot.com/
Not a 20 + Carry Back?
Maybe give him a chance before you rule him out of that role? Give it to him 30 times next game and see what happens. There’s really no rationale against doing it
“We had a plan of certain packages that we were using C.J. and we were using Tashard in,” Gailey explained.
Unless I missed something I do not see anything wrong with this. Back in the early ’90s they did similar with Thurman Thomas and Kenneth Davis.
.
When the job is finished no one remembers how long it took, just how well it was performed.
by Buffalo for Eternity on Dec 19, 2011 11:20 PM EST reply actions
Conspiracy theory
Nix: Hey Chan, we want to resign Fred to an extension but we want it to be reasonable
Chan: What can I do to help?
Nix: Make sure CJ shows some glimpses enough to help us negotiate
Chan: I doubt that will be a problem, the kid has talent.
Nix: Be careful not to expose him too much, I’d hate him to get hurt and make us have to give in to Fred’s full expectations
Chan: No worries, I’ll keep him him under 20 carries per game
Nix: Excellent, also – make sure he doesn’t shine too much either. I don’t want Fred asking to be traded.
Chan: Don’t worry Buddy, I know how to call the game in order to minimize points
Nix: Unfortunately I know you can…
The situation with Spiller makes no sense at all. There is an ulterior motive behind this. There is absolutely no logical reason why Gailey would remove him in favor of Choice, when the kid is having a breakout game. When they picked Spiller in the 9th spot, they really laid it on thick how much of a playmaker he was, there is no way that Gailey takes him out unless there is something else at stake here…
Rebuilding a team properly takes time and patience
rg3, spiller, stevie is a good trio to build upon for our future.
"They’re a very special group of men. Cherish them, you will not see their like again."
by chaucer on Dec 20, 2011 3:15 PM EST reply actions 1 recs
i;ve always contended that a legit championship team needs a trio of stars on both offense and defense. on O, qb, rb, wr….on D, dl, lb, db…
"They’re a very special group of men. Cherish them, you will not see their like again."
I don’t think GB had a star RB last year…nor do I think NO had a star RB the year before that. NE didn’t have a star RB when they went 18-1. The Steelers had a bottom 10 rushing attack the year they won. The only thing these teams had in common is an elite QB.
"Slowly all the roles we act out become our identity. And in the end we are what we pretend to be." - Jerry Cantrell.
Why should Spiller be any different than any other RB in a Chan Gailey system. Gailey is no friend to RBs, he is a passing game coach, for all the talk about using the players that’s at your disposeal in ways that suit them best, he ( Gailey ) has turned out to be a system guy. Chan has convinced me that he thinks he force the things in his head on a team that does not match his ideals. There are a lot of things I like about Gailey, I can’t wait until we have a new owner, GM, HC, & QB. I don’t think any of them has shown that they have what it takes to win big and consistanly in this leauge.
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- Detroit Lions DT Nick Fairley arrested again; now has more NFL arrests than NFL sacks
- Former high-school star Brian Banks does serious time on trumped-up charge, now hopes for an NFL shot
- Former ‘idiot kicker’ Mike Vanderjagt in trouble after accosting junior-high heckler
- Adrian Peterson blows teammates away in footraces; appears to be on the mend
- UPDATE: Charlie Sheen didn’t buy Lawrence Taylor’s Super Bowl ring
