The Buffalo Bills defense played well for most of the game, harassing Sam Bradford and limiting Steven Jackson. On offense, Ryan Fitzpatrick absorbed relentless big hits to cut through the St. Louis Rams defense. It wasn't enough, as a late touchdown pass sank the Bills on Sunday.
Buffalo had opportunities to blow the game open but a Fred Jackson fumble, penalty on a Stephon Gilmore interception return, and botched extra point took points off the board. The Bills lone touchdown came on a two-yard play-action touchdown pass from Ryan Fitpatrick to tight end Lee Smith.
Fitzpatrick finished the day 25-of-41 with 247 passing yards, that touchdown pass, and a desperation interception. He was sacked four times and took many more hits behind a green offensive line. C.J. Spiller had 8 touches for 52 yards and Fred Jackson had 9 carries for 14 yards and the fumble. Scott Chandler and Stevie Johnson had 71 receiving yards.
Mario Williams had another sack, bringing his season total to 10.5 and forcing a fumble for the second straight week. Gilmore's interception could have been added to by George Wilson, who could have ended the final Rams drive with a pick on two separate occasions.
Fred Jackson was carted off the field with a knee injury in the fourth quarter. We'll update after the game as information becomes available. Buffalo (5-8) heads to Toronto a week from today to face their second consecutive NFC West opponent when they "host" the Seattle Seahawks. They've now been all but eliminated from the playoff race.