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The Buffalo Bills didn't quite hit on all cylinders in the first half of their preseason opener against the Carolina Panthers, but they were fun to watch. Dominant defense (especially in the run game), capable quarterback play, and a lot of called running plays will hopefully carry the Bills when the games count in 2015, and that has done the job so far on Friday night.
Matt Cassel led one trip into the red zone on two efficient drives with the first-team offense, but a badly-shanked Jordan Gay field goal opportunity meant zero points. The starting defense allowed one play over two yards, forcing two punts on the first two drives, but Cam Newton found Kelvin Benjamin on the third drive for a touchdown over a physically overmatched Ronald Darby.
Tyrod Taylor has made several eye-popping plays with his legs, and showed off accuracy in his passing game, as well. If he continues to play well into the second half, he might earn an opportunity to start in less than a week, when the Bills travel to take on Cleveland.
As we turn to the second half, it's time for the roster battles to commence. Who is standing out to you?