Multiple sources have reported over the last 24 hours that the Buffalo Bills are expected to start Brian Brohm at quarterback for the team's Week 16 game in Atlanta. With the team's top two quarterbacks sidelined in practice on Wednesday with ankle injuries, Brohm took first-team reps, throwing to Terrell Owens and Lee Evans.
Interim head coach Perry Fewell, however, has not yet ruled out his starter, Ryan Fitzpatrick, telling reporters Wednesday afternoon that Brohm would start only if Fitzpatrick could not go. Fitzpatrick is considered day to day. The Buffalo News reported on Monday that crutches were spotted in Fitzpatrick's locker, but unlike backup Trent Edwards, Fitzpatrick was on hand at practice Wednesday, taking "mental reps," as Fewell termed it.
Gibran Hamdan, who was re-signed on Tuesday to boost Buffalo's depth at the QB position, is not considered a starting option. Fewell said Edwards has been ruled out this week, but will be re-evaluated next week, likely postponing reports that he was heading to Buffalo's extensive Injured Reserve list.
Buffalo won't play Fitzpatrick if he doesn't take any first-team reps in practice this week. If Fitzpatrick can't suit up on Thursday or Friday, look for Brohm to get the nod. But it's quite clear at this point that Brohm is not Fewell's first choice - nor should he be.