When a football team erases an 18-point halftime deficit, scores five touchdowns on five possessions in the second half and wins a thrilling 38-35 home opener over a quality opponent, there are going to be a lot of candidates for a game ball. For his efforts in yesterday's win over the Oakland Raiders, we're giving our Week 2 game ball to Buffalo Bills wide receiver Stevie Johnson.
David Nelson made the big catch, but Johnson gets our nod for the intangible factors. He had the production, of course, catching eight passes for 96 yards and a touchdown. He was also targeted 15 times in the ball game, further proof of his status as Ryan Fitzpatrick's go-to receiver.
More importantly, Johnson drew three huge, drive-sustaining penalties in this game - two defensive pass interference calls on Oakland cornerback Chris Johnson, and an unnecessary roughness flag on safety Tyvon Branch. For the icing on the cake, Johnson endeared himself to Buffalo's blue-collar, ravenous fan base by fighting through a tweaked groin and cramps to be on the field - albeit hobbled - for the final score. This was a huge, character-defining win for the Bills, and Johnson was at the forefront of that effort.