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Buffalo Bills Links, 9/11: Bills defensive line faces stiff test vs. Steelers

Plus, what are the keys to the Bills’ pursuit of a Super Bowl title?

By John Boccacino
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When the Buffalo Bills were eliminated by the Kansas City Chiefs to end their 2020 season, general manager Brandon Beane and head coach Sean McDermott prioritized improving the team’s pass rush, particularly from its front four.

Today’s edition of the Bills daily links leads off with analysis on one of the pivotal matchups of Sunday’s season opener between the Bills and the Pittsburgh Steelers: how well Buffalo’s re-tooled defensive front can handle Pittsburgh’s offensive line and its use of play action.

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D-line faces stiff challenge vs. Steelers and other Week 1 thoughts

After drafting edge rushers Greg Rousseau and Carlos “Boogie” Basham Jr., and with a bulked-up A.J. Epenesa, the Bills are hoping they made the necessary improvements to revitalize a pass rush that didn’t get to the quarterback enough in 2020. Sunday’s clash with Pittsburgh offers a golden opportunity for McDermott and Beane to gauge the progress the defensive line made this offseason.

Star Lotulelei ruled out for opener

The Bills were hoping defensive tackle Star Lotulelei’s return would boost an under-performing run defense from last year. Instead, Lotulelei will be sidelined with a calf injury when Buffalo hosts Pittsburgh.

Keys to Buffalo’s 2021 season

From improving the defense’s tackling abilities and pass rush to All-Pro quarterback Josh Allen continuing his spectacular play and the Bills managing lofty expectations, these are some of the keys that will help Buffalo in its pursuit of that elusive Super Bowl.

Odds and ends

We explore the special bond Sean McDermott has formed with Hall of Fame coach Marv Levy, tell you which former Bills players are participating in Sunday’s season-opening festivities, find out how Brandon Beane, left tackle Dion Dawkins, and punter Matt Haack are giving back to the Western New York community, and more!

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