Buffalo Rumblings - Bills vs. Browns Week 11 coverage: news, previews, updates, and moreBuffalo Bills news, notes, discussions, opinions and analysis. 24/7/365 since 4/7/2007.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48063/buffalorumblings_fave.png2022-11-27T19:39:00-05:00http://www.buffalorumblings.com/rss/stream/232216282022-11-27T19:39:00-05:002022-11-27T19:39:00-05:00Reacts: Bills Mafia misses DBs and winning ways
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<p>Just how far has fan confidence plummeted after two straight Bills losses?</p> <p id="UixB7Q">Each week during the regular season, <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Buffalo Bills</a> fans vote in <em>SB Nation Reacts</em> to express their confidence level in the team.</p>
<p id="3cdpIP">The Bills enter Week 11 at 6-3, having fallen from the top of their division and conference. Where once they stood as undisputed favorites to not only appear in, but win, this season’s <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/super-bowl">Super Bowl</a>, the Bills are now stuck looking up at the division leaders from their perch in the Wild Card group.</p>
<h2 id="05r951">What percentage of Bills fans are confident in the team’s direction?</h2>
<p id="74Ajwx">Two straight losses have a profound effect on NFL teams. That’s true also of fan confidence, and for Bills Mafia, it continues to fall like lake-effect snow on the greater Buffalo region.</p>
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<p id="QjkZVz">Fans are piling on the Bills—though perhaps it’s better said to be a piling against them. Only 57% of Bills Mafia believes the team is headed in the right direction. November has not been a kind month to the Bills—not only this season, but historically under head coach Sean McDermott. Will the Bills figure out what’s necessary to right their ship towards arid Arizona in February? If so, it starts in Week 11.</p>
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<h2 id="zmMErx">Which DB do the Bills miss the most right now?</h2>
<p id="5IhAPZ">If someone were to tell you the Bills would be playing a majority of their season without any of cornerback Tre’Davious White or safeties Jordan Poyer and Micah Hyde, it’s likely you’d think the defense was in complete disarray. While that’s pleasantly not the case in any way shape or form, it’s clear that the elite traits and leadership roles of Buffalo’s All-Pro trio are genuinely missed. But which player does Bills Mafia think the team most misses?</p>
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<p id="02Ur1Q">It’s hard to argue with any choice, and that’s reflected in the results. But without a doubt, Poyer is one of the team’s most important pieces on defense within the context of this season, and a player who likely changes the outcome of any among the team’s three losses this season. Perhaps surprising to some, White comes in third, but I suspect that’s more a vote of confidence in the depth that general manager Brandon Beane, head coach Sean McDermott, and defensive coordinator/assistant head coach Leslie Frazier have brought in and developed. They were prepared to play without White. Until this season, Poyer and Hyde were as automatic as the Earth revolving around the sun. While Damar Hamlin has played very well filling in at times for Hyde, there is a steep drop in production when both starting safeties are sidelined.</p>
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<p id="KBeO75">Another Reacts question this week asked fans to vote on which teams make the playoffs in 2022. While under 60% of Bills Mafia don’t quite trust the team’s direction, Buffalo is still a very popular choice to make the playoffs. </p>
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<p id="0hXXX2">A testament to franchise quarterback Josh Allen, the enigmatic Stefon Diggs, and an outstanding defense, Buffalo slots in just behind the <a href="https://www.arrowheadpride.com">Kansas City Chiefs</a> on this poll. The Bills must be very careful not to lose more ground and fall further behind the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> and <a href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">New York Jets</a>. </p>
<p id="YztDvm">If the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/nfl-playoffs">NFL Playoffs</a> started this weekend, every AFC East team would make the cut. The Dolphins would win the division, with the Bills, Jets, and <a href="https://www.patspulpit.com/">New England Patriots</a> all stealing Wild Card spots. So much for the AFC West and their reign of dominance.</p>
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<p id="K9POiJ">What was the most exciting NFL game to watch in Week 10? </p>
<p id="0O48Hs">If you watched the Bills’ home loss in overtime against the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a>, you already know the answer. Even if you didn’t watch it, you probably know the answer. The entire football world was talking about the game in Orchard Park, NY. Most have said it’s the game of the year, even better than Buffalo’s earlier dramatic win against the Kansas City Chiefs. </p>
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<p id="r3O39c">So it’s no surprise that 76% of respondents said the Bills-Vikings thriller was the game of the week.</p>
<p id="ROP81L">A distant second was America’s Game of the Week, featuring the <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/">Green Bay Packers</a>’ overtime win against the <a href="https://www.bloggingtheboys.com/">Dallas Cowboys</a>.</p>
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<p id="5DlijX"><strong>Check out </strong><a href="https://www.draftkings.com/sportsbook"><strong>DraftKings Sportsbook</strong></a><strong>, </strong><a href="https://dksb.sng.link/As9kz/q8f9?_dl=https%3A%2F%2Fsportsbook.draftkings.com%2Fgateway%3Fs%3D126225999%26wpcid%3D163147%26wpcn%3DHowtoWatchContent%26wpsrc%3DVox%26wpcrid%3DNFL&pcid=163147&psn=Vox&pcrn=HowtoWatchContent&pscn=NFL"><strong>the official </strong></a><a href="https://sportsbook.draftkings.com/featured"><strong>sportsbook</strong></a><strong> partner of SB Nation</strong><strong>.</strong></p>
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https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/19/23465867/buffalo-bills-mafia-fan-confidence-poll-jordan-poyer-tredavious-white-micah-hydeMatt Byham2022-11-23T12:53:00-05:002022-11-23T12:53:00-05:00Next Gen Stats from Bills-Browns: James Cook due for bigger role?
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<p>Bills DBs need to learn to knock the ball down on contested catches</p> <p id="4ZguF5">After back-to-back weeks of gut-wrenching losses and not-so-positive <em>Next Gen Stats</em> (NGS), the <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Buffalo Bills</a> got back on track with their 31-23 win over the <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a>. Last week’s stats weren’t in the Bills’ favor, highlighting how dominant <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a> wide receiver Justin Jefferson was and how bad quarterback Josh Allen was at times. </p>
<p id="zK2ic5">Allen wasn't asked to do much against the Browns, completing just 18-of-27 passes for 197 yards and one touchdown, but he found tight end Dawson Knox a career-high seven times for 70 yards. Per NGS, Knox averaged 6.5 yards of separation—most among all receivers. </p>
<p id="sTPIf7">Buffalo’s running game looked arguably the best it has all season and kept the Browns’ defense guessing all game long. Rookie running back James Cook posted the best game of his young career thus far, totaling 86 yards on just 11 carries (+32 yards over expected). Per NGS, he logged just 25% of snaps and ran against a stacked box on nearly half of his carries (45.45%), yet still ran for yards over expectation on 54.5% of his carries. Devin Singletary totaled the same amount of yards on seven more carries and +47% more snaps. </p>
<p id="REXnap">On the defensive side of things, the Bills did a very good job containing Browns running back Nick Chubb to just 14 carries for 19 yards, but noticeably struggled against wide receiver Amari Cooper. Cooper caught 4-of-7 targets over 10 air yards for 71 yards and two touchdowns, and recorded a 50.3% air yards share—his fourth game this season where's he accounted for more than half of his team’s air yards. The Bills made an effort to guard him closely as he only had 1.5 average yards of separation (fourth-lowest) but still managed to haul in two touchdowns, with his second having just a 19.4% completion probability. His fourth-quarter touchdown catch ranked as the fourth-most improbable catch of the week and 20th-most this season. </p>
<p id="uScums">Browns quarterback Jacoby Brissett was the one dealing Cooper these long balls all game long, throwing for 324 yards and three touchdowns. Again per NGS, despite throwing the ball into tight windows at the highest rate (24.4% of his attempts), he still completed 68.3% of his passes (+11.2% over expectation)—which was tied for fifth-best in Week 11. </p>
https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/23/23475426/bills-browns-recap-lions-thanksgiving-game-preview-next-gen-statsHunter Skoczylas2022-11-23T09:04:43-05:002022-11-23T09:04:43-05:00Matt Milano named AFC Defensive Player of the Week
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<p>The linebacker is starting to get national recognition</p> <p id="ISceju"><a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Buffalo Bills</a> linebacker Matt Milano was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week after a dominant performance against the <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a> on Sunday. Milano finished the game with 12 tackles (eight solo), one sack, three tackles for a loss and one fumble recovery.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Matt Milano has been named AFC Defensive Player of the Week. <a href="https://t.co/gq6ziDDfhC">pic.twitter.com/gq6ziDDfhC</a></p>— Buffalo Bills PR (@BuffaloBillsPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/BuffaloBillsPR/status/1595409417746665472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2022</a>
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<p id="gPl7Bj">With the score 10-3 in favor of the Browns, Milano had a huge fumble recovery off a botched snap that turned the game in Buffalo’s favor. After that recovery by Milano, the Bills outscored the Browns 28-13 the rest of the way, including 25 unanswered points. The linebacker was also a key contributor in holding running back Nick Chubb to only 19 yards on 14 carries.</p>
<p id="kO7xms">The excellence of Milano is no surprise to fans as he has been doing this all season long. Milano has the ability to cover the field east to west, tracking down running backs getting to the outside. However, he also has the ability to go north and south in a hurry to plug up holes at the line of scrimmage. Head coach Sean McDermott said that Milano is the one of the most underrated defenders in the NFL, while teammate <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/20/23470035/buffalo-bills-matt-milano-defensive-player-of-the-year-jordan-phillips">Jordan Phillips endorses him for Defensive Player of the Year</a>.</p>
<p id="Hch9Bq">The nation will be able to see Milano show his skills on Thanksgiving Day, when the Bills will take on the <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a> in the opening game of the afternoon.</p>
https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/23/23474994/bills-news-matt-milano-afc-defensive-player-of-the-weekCorey Giacovelli2022-11-23T09:00:00-05:002022-11-23T09:00:00-05:00Dawson Knox contributing in multiple ways for the Bills
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<p>Knox’s receiving numbers haven’t lived up to his contract extension, but don’t discount his value to Buffalo’s offense</p> <p id="i2q5zW">The expectations are higher than ever for <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Buffalo Bills</a> tight end Dawson Knox after he signed a four-year, $53.6 million contract extension this offseason.</p>
<p id="lQB7cL">Through 10 games this season, Knox has compiled 31 receptions for 310 yards and two touchdowns, which isn’t exactly what Bills fans had in mind for Knox after signing his big extension. However, the tight end position is more than just catching the football; they also have to be able to block. If a tight end can’t block, they are just a glorified “big” wide receiver. Knox is not a one-trick pony. He is a well-rounded tight end in today's NFL.</p>
<p id="3XLCui">Knox turned in one of his better statistical performances in Week 11 against the <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a>, posting seven receptions for 70 yards. Here is an inside look at how his game went.</p>
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<p id="trkCsT">Looking at Knox’s targeted route chart from the Browns game isn’t very exciting. Five out of seven targets (he caught all seven of his targets) came on “block and release” routes. It is impressive that even with this limited route chart, Knox could turn these seven receptions into 70 yards. Now let’s take an All-22 view into Knox’s game versus the Browns.</p>
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<h2 id="D5snI4">Knox moves the chains</h2>
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<p id="gqTa6Q">On this 3rd & 10 play, Knox does a good job of selling his pass block, but also shoving the defender inside to the tackle. He then releases to the flat to catch the football. When he catches the ball, he is still nine yards away from the first-down marker. He knows exactly where he needs to get for the first down, and he makes a nice move to break a tackle and move the chains.</p>
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<h2 id="eMYgz5">Pancake block</h2>
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<p id="2A2OHd">This one is fun to watch. Knox blocks his defender 10 yards down the field, and then pancakes him. You won’t find a much better block by a tight end than this.</p>
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<h2 id="8x5a4x">Yards after contact</h2>
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<p id="icjj2j">This play is almost identical to the first play in this article. I love how Knox always fights for extra yardage when he has the football. Even if he is cornered by multiple defenders or up against the sideline, he always works to pick up as many yards as he can.</p>
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<h2 id="wtpG8q">Dawson Knox: decoy?</h2>
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<p id="MzUVYd">Sometimes, the most important route on the ball is the route that doesn’t get the ball thrown to it. This route by Knox is the perfect example of that. His drag route draws the attention of two defenders, and brings them toward the line of scrimmage. This opens up the intermediate window for wide receiver Gabe Davis to slide into for the reception.</p>
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<h2 id="u4xzAY">Beating zone coverage</h2>
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<p id="bDTS2p">Knox runs this route to perfection. He understands where the defenders are, and settles in the open spot in the zone, giving Allen a big window to throw into. If he runs the route too far outside, he risks having the corner make a play on the ball. If he runs the route too far inside, the safety could make a play. If he stops his route too short, Allen wouldn’t have enough space to throw over the linebacker.</p>
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<h2 id="Z08Nxh">Paving the way for a touchdown</h2>
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<p id="zU3IJl">It’s not often that you see a double team end up blocking three defenders. Knox and right tackle Spencer Brown double-team the defensive end just long enough to stop him from disrupting a red zone run play. Then they both come off the double team and block incoming free defenders to pave the wave to the end zone for running back Devin Singletary.</p>
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<h2 id="H0srcx">Second-level blocking</h2>
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<p id="tXrOQj">Knox plays a vital role in this run play that goes for a big gain. He steps outside and checks his initial block, which helps his teammate secure a solid block. Then Knox heads to the second level and attacks the inside shoulder of the linebacker. This is important, because Knox knows he wants Singletary to be inside his block. He does an outstanding job of getting his backside in the hole and pushing the defender outside to make a lane for Singletary to run through. Great technique by Knox.</p>
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<h2 id="BzPvOD">Over the middle catch</h2>
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<p id="t50h0T">When asked, Knox can run a solid route as a receiver. On this dig route, Knox is able to stall the safety from breaking on his route by looking outside before he broke inside. He also finds himself in the perfect spot—behind the linebackers, and in front of the safeties.</p>
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<h2 id="qNk8dv">In Summary</h2>
<p id="oIPar8">Even though Knox doesn’t always show up with big numbers on the stat sheet, he still is a versatile tight end. I believe the Bills value his ability to be an above-average blocker and a receiving threat. Given the chance, Knox has the capability to show up more in the passing game, but don’t discount his importance to the Bills’ running game.</p>
https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/23/23474493/bills-browns-recap-analysis-dawson-knox-run-blockingB.J.Monacelli2022-11-23T08:00:00-05:002022-11-23T08:00:00-05:00Bills rookie review: James Cook continues strong play
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<figcaption>Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Buffalo’s second-round pick joins rookie corners Kaiir Elam and Christian Benford as key contributors on a Super Bowl hopeful</p> <p id="1mNeeX">After a two-game losing skid, the <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Buffalo Bills</a> are back in the win column after halting the <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a> and their highly-touted run game. Buffalo’s defense held the Browns to 80 yards on 26 carries. The Bills’ offense struggled once again in the first half, including star quarterback Josh Allen. Something seemed to shift on the final drive of the first half that ended in a five-yard touchdown strike to Stefon Diggs. Six drives that stalled out and ended in Tyler Bass field goals allowed the Browns to stay in the game.</p>
<p id="l0i4Av">Several rookies were in action for Week 11 against Cleveland. Let’s talk about their performances.</p>
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<h3 id="xIleVt">Kaiir Elam, cornerback</h3>
<p id="eTL642">Elam was a bit of a surprise inactive in this game with an ankle injury. He has now missed two straight games, and cornerbacks Dane Jackson and Christian Bernard struggled mightily against the Browns. Elam should be expected to return for the Bills’ Thanksgiving game against the <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a>. </p>
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<h3 id="YVfxCV">James Cook, running back</h3>
<p id="mxkxVi">There were certainly some big rush lanes to scoot through against one of the worst run defenses in the NFL, but the rookie second-rounder made the most of 16 snaps in this game. Cook had 11 totes on those snaps for 86 yards—that’s 7.8 yards per carry on the afternoon. He wasn’t creating a lot of extra yards on his runs, but he made good choices on his cutbacks and hitting the proper gap to maximize his opportunities. Cook is gaining more comfort as the season progresses. More snaps might be warranted for Cook going forward.</p>
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<h3 id="g5uP8P">Terrel Bernard, linebacker</h3>
<p id="WZYnRc">Starting linebacker Tremaine Edmunds missed this game with a groin injury that flared back up. Veteran Tyrel Dodson got the nod on Sunday in the starting lineup. Dodson’s play this year has bordered on dreadful, while Bernard hasn’t received much opportunity. Bernard saw five snaps against the Browns, and probably needs another look in the future if one of Edmunds or Milano are out. Recently-claimed linebacker and old friend A.J. Klein is back on the team, which could eventually cut into any potential snaps for Bernard in 2022. It’s been a disappointing start to his career as a third-round pick.</p>
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<h3 id="Kp6zLf">Khalil Shakir, wide receiver</h3>
<p id="qyQBT6">Shakir played 16 offensive snaps, but he remains an afterthought in the Bills’ offense. Veteran running back Nyheim Hines has proven to be a dynamic punt returner. Shakir likely won’t get that job back while Hines is a Bill. Shakir has seven receptions this season for 118 yards and a touchdown. This will probably continue to be a year of development for Shakir.</p>
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<h3 id="kCkOhq">Christian Benford, cornerback</h3>
<p id="RaCO7U">Benford takes his lumps in coverage like any sixth-rounder playing FCS football a year ago would. But the flashes show he has the ability to be sticky in coverage. Benford had a pass breakup to his credit, but he also had a few passes caught in his coverage. Veteran practice squad call-up Xavier Rhodes rotated at times with Benford. If it were a choice to be made, McDermott should sit Jackson in favor of Elam and Benford who have shown much greater signs of positivity as rookies in 2022 than Jackson has in his third season.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="qnaCTH">
<h3 id="ZF7G1T">Baylon Spector, linebacker</h3>
<p id="AIkD5M">Spector is a 2023 depth possibility, but he continues to be a nonfactor with the team this year.</p>
https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/23/23474376/bills-rookies-2022-james-cook-khalil-shakir-kaiir-elam-christian-benfordMaxwell Owens2022-11-23T07:30:00-05:002022-11-23T07:30:00-05:00Buffalo Rumblinks, 11/23: Final thoughts on Bills’ win over Browns
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<img alt="NFL: Cleveland Browns at Buffalo Bills" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/IQCRYxSBcmQt4_DShG8vAe71ZUw=/0x0:3200x2133/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/71665230/usa_today_19473784.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Plus, QB Josh Allen continues to progress in his recovery from an elbow injury</p> <p id="ZcB7Vx">Before we fully turn our attention towards the <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Buffalo Bills</a>’ Thanksgiving Day game against the <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a>, today’s edition of Buffalo Rumblinks leads off with final thoughts from Buffalo’s 31-23 triumph over the <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a>, including how running back James Cook took advantage of his snaps to make a big impression and fuel a resurgent ground game.</p>
<h2 id="b1Grmg">Bills 31, Browns 23: final thoughts</h2>
<p id="SfLmjP">Running backs James Cook and Devin Singletary each rushed for 86 yards as the Bills (finally) got their ground game on track against Cleveland. What else stood out from Buffalo's win over the Browns? The interior defensive linemen, led by DaQuan Jones and Ed Oliver, keyed a run defense that contained Nick Chubb. Linebacker Matt Milano and Jordan Poyer demonstrated how much they mean for the Bills defense, tight end Dawson Knox showed why he needs to be more involved in the offense moving forward, and wide receiver Stefon Diggs proved how big of a leader he is.</p>
<ul>
<li id="EemMwY"><a href="https://buffalonews.com/sports/bills/bills-rookie-running-back-james-cook-made-the-most-of-his-time-on-the-field/article_476f0468-69ed-11ed-b8f0-c701168ccae3.html">Bills rookie running back James Cook made the most of his time on the field Sunday against Cleveland - Buffalo News</a></li>
<li id="TmRPVZ"><a href="https://buffalonews.com/sports/bills/analysis-daquan-jones-led-big-effort-by-bills-interior-defensive-line-vs-browns/article_30d49298-69e0-11ed-8b56-c75ecd030b24.html">Analysis: DaQuan Jones led big effort by Bills’ interior defensive line vs. Browns - Buffalo News</a></li>
<li id="FfpU8A">
<a href="https://www.newyorkupstate.com/buffalo-bills/2022/11/bills-have-plenty-to-be-thankful-for-following-31-23-win-over-browns-encouragedworried.html">Bills have plenty to be thankful for following 31-23 win over Browns (Encouraged/worried) - </a><a href="http://newyorkupstate.com">newyorkupstate.com</a>
</li>
<li id="wGWLEy">
<a href="https://www.buffalobills.com/news/stefon-diggs-shows-leadership-von-miller-surprises-leslie-frazier-and-week-12-in">Stefon Diggs shows leadership, Von Miller surprises Leslie Frazier and Week 12 injury updates - </a><a href="http://BuffaloBills.com">BuffaloBills.com</a>
</li>
<li id="LFLH1o">
<a href="https://www.newyorkupstate.com/buffalo-bills/2022/11/bills-stefon-diggs-explains-why-sean-mcdermott-had-to-calm-him-down-vs-browns.html">Bills’ Stefon Diggs explains why Sean McDermott had to calm him down vs. Browns - </a><a href="http://newyorkupstate.com">newyorkupstate.com</a>
</li>
<li id="TUMatr"><a href="https://buffalonews.com/sports/bills/ken-dorsey-watch-bills-pony-package-worked-vs-browns/article_ec4da624-69e3-11ed-a126-3fe5b2e5b27e.html">Ken Dorsey Watch: Bills’ ‘Pony’ package worked vs. Browns - Buffalo News</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="XGixtx">Josh Allen elbow injury improving?</h2>
<p id="0jmTSi">Buffalo’s <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-pro-bowl">Pro Bowl</a> quarterback, Josh Allen, was a limited participant in Tuesday’s practice session, but took part in drills without the help of a protective sleeve on his right arm, the first time Allen has been without one since he injured his elbow against the Jets.</p>
<ul><li id="SHqzy9"><a href="https://buffalonews.com/sports/bills/bills-qb-josh-allen-takes-part-in-practice-without-protective-sleeve-on-elbow/article_d9847220-6a88-11ed-9e60-f7854cd84dae.html">Bills QB Josh Allen takes part in practice without protective sleeve on elbow - Buffalo News</a></li></ul>
<h2 id="9PZ56S">Where are the Bills in the latest <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-power-rankings">NFL power rankings</a>?</h2>
<p id="KvcsbL">The Bills snapped out of their mini two-game slump with a convincing 31-23 victory over the Cleveland Browns. What impact did that win have on where the Bills find themselves in the latest NFL power rankings?</p>
<ul>
<li id="majwOB">
<a href="https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/35039876/2022-nfl-week-12-power-rankings-1-32-poll-underachievers">NFL Week 12 Power Rankings 2022 - 1-32 poll, underachievers - </a><a href="http://ESPN.com">ESPN.com</a>
</li>
<li id="H1ob0U">
<a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641776&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2F3914928%2F2022%2F11%2F22%2Fnfl-power-rankings-week-11-2%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.buffalorumblings.com%2F2022%2F11%2F23%2F23472072%2Fbills-news-lions-thanksgiving-game-browns-recap-josh-allen-injury" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">NFL Power Rankings: Cowboys, 49ers enter conversation as serious Super Bowl contenders - The Athletic</a> (subscription required)</li>
<li id="OyIUqa"><a href="https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2022/11/22/pfts-week-12-2022-nfl-power-rankings/">PFT's Week 12 2022 NFL power rankings - ProFootballTalk</a></li>
<li id="8dXF2x"><a href="https://www.si.com/nfl/2022/11/22/nfl-power-rankings-chiefs-cowboys-make-claim-for-top-spot-week-11">NFL Power Rankings: Chiefs and Cowboys Make Claim for No. 1 Spot - Sports Illustrated</a></li>
<li id="LzGw2v"><a href="https://www.theringer.com/nfl/2022/11/22/23472306/nfl-power-rankings-week-12-eagles-chiefs-bills-dolphins">Week 12 NFL Power Rankings: Eagles Still at No. 1, but for How Long? - The Ringer</a></li>
<li id="qsHfNY">
<a href="https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-power-rankings-week-12-2022-nfl-season">NFL Power Rankings, Week 12: Chiefs leap to No. 1 for first time all season; Cowboys hit a new high - </a><a href="http://NFL.com">NFL.com</a>
</li>
</ul>
<h2 id="Sjdgbt">Even more Bills News</h2>
<p id="z9NO7K">Edge rusher Von Miller was honored as Buffalo’s nominee for the Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award, while former Bills linebacker London Fletcher was named a semifinalist for the 2023 Pro Football Hall of Fame Class.</p>
<ul>
<li id="v0CKEp">
<a href="https://www.buffalobills.com/news/bills-lb-von-miller-nominated-for-2022-art-rooney-sportsmanship-award">Bills LB Von Miller nominated for 2022 Art Rooney Sportsmanship Award - </a><a href="http://BuffaloBills.com">BuffaloBills.com</a>
</li>
<li id="n6Ag8Z">
<a href="https://www.buffalobills.com/news/former-bills-lb-london-fletcher-named-semifinalist-for-2023-pro-football-hall-of">Former Bills LB London Fletcher named semifinalist for 2023 Pro Football Hall of Fame Class - </a><a href="http://BuffaloBills.com">BuffaloBills.com</a>
</li>
<li id="WBTUJf"><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641776&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Ftheathletic.com%2F3921584%2F2022%2F11%2F22%2Fbills-snow-stadium-detroit%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.buffalorumblings.com%2F2022%2F11%2F23%2F23472072%2Fbills-news-lions-thanksgiving-game-browns-recap-josh-allen-injury" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Should another relocation cause the Bills to consider building a domed stadium? A Q&A with COO Ron Raccuia - The Athletic</a></li>
</ul>
<h2 id="QCLGg6">Recently featured on Buffalo Rumblings</h2>
<ul>
<li id="n6SIc9"><a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/22/23473562/josh-allen-injury-elbow-brace-sleeves-bills-lions-thanksgiving-game">Josh Allen injury update: QB practices without brace ahead of Lions game - Buffalo Rumblings</a></li>
<li id="r3dfvk"><a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/22/23473462/bills-lions-injuries-mitch-morse-tremaine-edmunds-greg-rousseau-aj-epenesa">Bills-Lions injury updates: Mitch Morse, Tremaine Edmunds not practicing - Buffalo Rumblings</a></li>
<li id="6Hl9nA"><a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/21/23470881/bills-browns-score-analysis-james-cook-breakout-performance">Bills-Browns analysis: James Cook enjoys breakout performance in victory - Buffalo Rumblings</a></li>
<li id="0IwWy6"><a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/21/23471618/afc-east-standings-week-12-playoff-picture-bills-dolphins-patriots-jets-x-factors">AFC East standings: These X-factors will determine division’s outcome - Buffalo Rumblings</a></li>
<li id="R4g7Hn"><a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/22/23472445/bills-browns-analysis-buffalo-run-defense-matt-milano-ed-oliver">Bills-Browns analysis: Matt Milano, Ed Oliver re-ignite Buffalo’s run D - Buffalo Rumblings</a></li>
<li id="jKOJAk"><a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/22/23471575/bills-browns-analysis-ed-oliver-jack-conklin-nick-chubb">Bills-Browns analysis: Ed Oliver continues strong play in win - Buffalo Rumblings</a></li>
<li id="8y0rFm"><a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/22/23472638/bills-browns-recap-analysis-josh-allen-second-half-improvement">Bills-Browns recap: Josh Allen shakes off rust, delivers in second half - Buffalo Rumblings</a></li>
</ul>
https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/23/23472072/bills-news-lions-thanksgiving-game-browns-recap-josh-allen-injuryJohn Boccacino2022-11-22T19:00:00-05:002022-11-22T19:00:00-05:00Code of Conduct: Leftovers Are For Quitters
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<p>Former Bills lineman Jerry Ostroski joins ‘Code of Conduct’ to recap Bills-Browns, talk Sean McDermott’s coaching style, and more. Join tonight at 8:00 p.m. EST!</p> <p id="0JBD4q">On a short week, the <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Buffalo Bills</a> celebrate their 31-23 win over the <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns</a> but move on quickly to go right back to Ford Field to take on the <a href="https://www.prideofdetroit.com/">Detroit Lions</a> on Thursday afternoon for Thanksgiving.</p>
<p id="HH6QbG">Quarterback Josh Allen and the offense bounced back, but not how most of Bills Mafia would have hoped. Tyler Bass was 6-for-6 on field goal attempts, while the Bills were only able to score two offensive touchdowns against a team that isn’t known to have a strong defensive unit. Allen certainly looked timid compared to what we’ve seen throughout the season. But it was a successful day for the running game. Running backs Devin Singletary and James Cook both showed up and made plays for the offense when the passing attack wasn’t moving the ball.</p>
<p id="uLmKQl">Defensively, it was a breath of fresh air to see safety Jordan Poyer back in action. He and linebacker Matt Milano made huge plays that kept the Bills in control for most of the game. They held the Browns to 80 yards rushing, and kept Nick Chubb in check throughout the game.</p>
<p id="Z0BDby">How do the Bills build on this momentum on a short turnaround? Former Buffalo Bills offensive lineman Jerry Ostroski and Detroit Lions Beat Reporter, Jeremy Reisman joins the show to discuss the Bills-Lions matchup, why Allen looked off Sunday against the Browns, Poyer’s impact, and Sean McDermott’s coaching style and why he is undervalued.</p>
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https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/22/23471647/bills-browns-recap-sean-mcdermott-josh-allen-jordan-poyer-matt-milanoJames Pennington2022-11-22T14:00:00-05:002022-11-22T14:00:00-05:00Buffalo’s elite run defense returned in Bills’ win over Browns
<figure>
<img alt="Cleveland Browns v Buffalo Bills" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/t68zheCtfIE7ZP2nxqCeL2TTJjk=/0x0:4141x2761/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/71662843/1443072096.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Buffalo’s run defense shines as they stonewall Nick Chubb</p> <p id="shyXDL">The <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/">Buffalo Bills</a> beat the <a href="https://www.dawgsbynature.com/">Cleveland Browns,</a> 31-23, in their Week 11 matchup. The Browns came into the game possessing a <a href="https://www.teamrankings.com/nfl/stat/rushing-yards-per-game?date=2022-11-16">top-five rushing attack</a> in the NFL featuring one of the game’s best running backs in Nick Chubb. Given Buffalo’s recent struggles defending the run, much attention was given to this matchup leading up to the game.</p>
<p id="r0Nv8q">The Bills held the Browns' rushing attack in check, allowing only 80 rushing yards on 26 attempts for a meager 3.1 yards per carry. Furthermore, they stifled Chubb by containing him to just 19 yards on 14 carries for an astonishing 1.4 yards per carry. Let’s take an All-22 end zone view to see how the Bills were able to pull off such a dominating performance.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="DjmMaI">
<h2 id="iHMuGV">Bills’ Ed Oliver has a nasty club & rip</h2>
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</figure>
<p id="IHnNUa">This play is all about defensive tackle Ed Oliver winning his matchup. The Browns try to run a draw play and have guard Wyatt Teller invite Oliver up the field to pretend it’s a pass play. Oliver uses this to his advantage as he speeds past Teller with a club & rip move to get to the ball carrier right as he gets the handoff.</p>
<h2 id="mMQ22j">DaQuan Jones and Ed Oliver make quick work getting to backfield</h2>
<figure class="e-image">
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<p id="qk3JD0">The Browns run a zone-blocking scheme on this play, and the Bills fill their gaps perfectly. At the snap, everyone on the defense matches the play's movement towards the jet motion. Defensive tackle DaQuan Jones is too quick for his blocker, and immediately gets into the backfield. Oliver does get reach blocked, but he uses his strength to push his blocker into the backfield and get in on the tackle.</p>
<h2 id="qr845D">The greatness of linebacker Matt Milano</h2>
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</figure>
<p id="HoyWJq">How good is Matt Milano? Let me answer that for you—he’s not good, he’s great! It looks like Milano knew that this play was coming. He explodes like he’s shot out of a cannon and tackles Chubb for a six-yard loss.</p>
<h2 id="fxhRIM">Bills display great form and instincts to minimize gains</h2>
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<p id="4zUsMO">Two Bills players hit the deck on this play, and they still stop the run for only a three-yard gain. The double team on Oliver knocks both he and linebacker Tyrel Dodson to the ground. Defensive end Shaq Lawson does a nice job of attacking the pulling lineman and squeezing the back inside. Cornerback Taron Johnson shows good instincts, and scrapes all the way over from the other side of the formation to make the tackle.</p>
<h2 id="fI6jJ1">Bills defensively sound containing outside damage</h2>
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</figure>
<p id="yxzQ6w">Defensive tackle Tim Settle gets penetration on this pla,y but instead of going straight up the field, which would likely result in him running by the play, he smartly moves sideways with the play and forces Chubb to keep the run outside. Lawson does a wonderful job of taking on two blockers and keeping his outside leverage. Lawson uses his long arms to disengage both blocks and make the tackle.</p>
<h2 id="8LWFQM">Strength of Jones and Oliver too much to handle</h2>
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</figure>
<p id="pZKcRF">Buffalo’s defensive tackles show off their strength in this play. Jones throws his blocker to the ground, and Oliver overpowers his blocker into the hole. They both meet in the middle to tag team the tackle for a loss.</p>
<h2 id="2NJZC7">Milano possesses elite football intelligence</h2>
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</figure>
<p id="Soo0xF">Milano is such a difference-maker when he’s in the lineup. This is another example of his superior athleticism and talent. He immediately diagnoses the play and is too fast for any offensive lineman to block him. Not to mention the tackle, where he throws Chubb down to the ground like a rag doll. This is the type of film you show to young football players learning to play the linebacker position. </p>
<h2 id="N8z3r4">Buffalo defense maintains proper run fits</h2>
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</figure>
<p id="kH0R7X">This play is a great example of Buffalo filling their proper run fits. Edge rusher Von Miller gets reach blocked initially, but he fights back outside to maintain his outside leverage, which forces Chubb back inside. The most important part of this play is with Dodson, who fills his proper run gap. He has a wide-open lane to get in the backfield initially, but that isn’t his run fit—that's Milano’s task. If he were to take that initial lane, he would have been behind that play and it likely would have resulted in a nice gain for Chubb. Instead, Dodson stays patient and shuffles sideways to his run fit, and makes the tackle for a minimal gain.</p>
<hr class="p-entry-hr" id="yWdXhh">
<h2 id="u36ZaF">In Summary</h2>
<p id="KwUKsH">Buffalo’s run defense has been a hot topic of debate for Bills Mafia in recent weeks, but the defense showed it’s more than capable of stopping a top-tier rushing attack. The Bills had some outstanding play from their interior defensive line, which I think was a huge part of their success in stopping the run. It also helped having Milano back on the field—he truly is a game-changer for the defense. I would expect this performance to give the Bills’ defense some confidence against the run moving forward.</p>
https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2022/11/22/23472445/bills-browns-analysis-buffalo-run-defense-matt-milano-ed-oliverB.J.Monacelli