The Bills have to reduce their roster to 80 players by 4 pm Tuesday. They got a head start by releasing six players today.
DB Rajric Coleman, RB Anthony Elzy, P Reid Forrest, WR Paul Hubbard, CB Loyce Means and OL Isaiah Thompson were all waived today.
They still have to get rid of 1 more guy by 4pm Tuesday.
MY TAKE: That ends the Brian Moorman v. Reid Forrest debate. Paul Hubbard is the only slight surprise but figuring his legal problems he has to settle, it isn't too surprising. He had his best preseason to date. Elzy had a nice game against the Jags but didn't show enough prior to yesterday. Thompson will be remembered for his fight in camp and that's about it and Means had a pretty bad ass name.
According to Twitter friend, suew777, Thompson and Coleman were complaining about the Buffalo nightlife yesterday. I'm not saying that's why they were released because both guys are camp fodder material but going on twitter and doing that never helps your case.
Showing posts with label Football. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Football. Show all posts
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Bills beat Jags in OVVVVVVERRTIMEE
Bills outlast Jaguars in rare preseason OT game
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. -- Rian Lindell hit a 40-yard field goal with 3:04 left in overtime to lift the Buffalo Bills to a 35-32 preseason victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars in a game that lasted nearly 4 hours Saturday night.
Lindell's kick came after Jacksonville's Josh Scobee missed a 53-yard attempt.
It was a back-and-forth game in which Buffalo squandered a 17-point first-half lead and had to overcome a 15-point second-half deficit.
With much of the crowd gone by halftime, Tyler Thigpen forced overtime by hitting Paul Hubbard on a 4-yard touchdown pass with 38 seconds left, then hooking up again for a two-point conversion.
Jacksonville dropped to 1-2 this preseason, the same record as Buffalo.
by The Associated Press
MY TAKE: The Bills first team offense looked really good. Gailey revealed that they actually game-planned a bit for the Jags and it was noticeable. Fitzy was RAZOR sharp going 11 for 12 for 165 yards and 2 touchdowns. As mentioned in my WHO to look for post, Fitz put up a performance that I speculated would ease the minds of fans going into the regular season. This is exactly what he needed to do. Marcus Easley was a major part of the offense and looked the part. He was another guy I mentioned we should keep an eye on. He has a real shot of being that #2 guy with his strong performance yesterday. I still see the coaching staff leaning toward Donald Jones but Easley certainly made that decision a bit more difficult.
Much more later, when I get to see a high definition version of this game.
Saturday, August 27, 2011
WHO to watch tonight v. the Jags
It's preseason game #3 - the most important game of them all (per preseason standards, of course). It's getting close to the first cut down day, August 30th. Because of the lockout, undrafted rookies are going to have an extremely difficult time cracking the roster. Veterans will receive the benefit of the doubt unless they are being pushed out by the new draft class or for financial reasons.
Here's my list of players to watch tonight and why you should be keeping a close eye on them:
MARCUS EASLEY - Easley had a rough start last week against the Broncos but as the game went on, he looked more comfortable and even made a few good catches. It's also been noted that he's had a good week of practice this week, resembling a legitimate wide receiver. This is what the Bills need after Lee Evans turned in another good performance with the Ravens. With Donald Jones out for the remainder of the preseason, this is Easley's audition for the role of the #2 receiver. It's not likely to happen this quickly but if he can turn it up a few notches tonight, he can give the coaches a reason to think twice about where he stands in this group of wide receivers. They desperately want him to be that guy but he has to prove himself first.
THE O-LINE - We all know the drill here. Basically this group of lineman has been pretty bad thus far. They need a good night to give us fans some hope going into the season. Buddy Nix told us all that they liked this group of lineman better than we do. Now it's time for this group to prove Nix right. Bell needs to redeem his god awful performance from last week. Levitre needs to establish himself as a starter once again. And they need to hold up for Fitzy.
FITZPATRICK - I've been having some conflicting opinions about our starting QB. On one hand, he's had a pretty weak camp so far. On the other hand, he's never been that type of QB to begin with. Hell, that's why Trent Edwards beat him out last year in preseason (not the only reason though). But there's one thing I strongly believe to be true about Fitz - he's a gamer. He plays best when the pressure is on and when the bullets are flying... for real. That might be enough reason for fans to want a different quarterback next year. They might want that QB who can throw a 20 yard out and looks tremendous doing so. Or they could simply say, I want my QB to be more consistent. I totally understand that. But tonight is an interesting night for Fitz. The fans seem down on him. The local media is down on him. Fitz needs to remind fans why he was basically given the job this year. Fitz can ease the minds of fans by putting up a touchdown or two (two would be great for the Bearded one). The bottom line for me is, I believe in Fitz. But for the first time in a long time, I'm starting to question him as our long term starter. I see the Bills round-up clips from their website and they feature mostly Thigpen (more on him in a bit) highlights. But I know that can change with a solid performance from him tonight. Fitz, we need your A game tonight. Yes, it's preseason, but the starting offense has yet to score a touchdown yet. They need a few tonight.
CJ SPILLER - This one could also read Fred Jackson. After all of the hoopla about Jackson's complaints this week, it will be interesting to see who has the better night tonight. Who will get the first carry? Coaches promised Fred it would be him but that could always change. Can Spiller follow up his decent performance last week with a GOOD performance on the ground? Ultimately, it doesn't really matter who has the better night because this league is a 2 back league and we need both guys for the duration of the season. What we really need to look for is CJ's progression as a blocker. He whiffed on his blitz pick ups last week and needs to show more in that department against the Jags. I also want to see more north-south running and less east-west running which gets him in trouble. Granted, he doesn't get much help with the O-line but it would be nice to see him correct some of the mistakes he made last week. Spiller is going to have a HUGE role with the Bills this season. His development is critical for the Nix/Gailey regime. He was their first pick. It's time to see some results. I could probably cut and paste this paragraph when it comes to time for "WHO TO WATCH" for the first regular season game.
MIKE CAUSSIN/ZACK PIANALTO - The more I think about it, the more I think Shawn Nelson is in danger of losing his spot on this team because of his prolonged injury that has kept him mostly out of camp and the preseason. The way I see it - Scott Chandler has the #1 TE spot locked down. David Martin will likely get that #2 spot because of his blocking abilities. And then it comes down to a 2 man race - Caussin and Pianalto. So far, Caussin has stood out more in camp and in game action.
Other notables:
Michael Jasper - Kyle Williams has been working with Jasper more. A sign that the coaching staff wants to give Jasper a real shot of making this team. I still think he's a practice squad guy right now because he's too raw at this point. He has shown VERY little in preseason games. Don't get me wrong, I, like many of you, love the Jasper story but he has to show more to justify a roster spot.
Kamar Aiken - Because of the emergence of Roosevelt and the Bills high hopes for Easley, it's unlikely he'll get a roster spot but he sure looks like a good practice squad guy right now. I really like what I've seen of Aiken so far. He's looked good in camp and I thought he looked good in his limited time last week.
Tyler Thigpen - He looked much better last week compared to his first preseason game, a sign that he is starting to feel comfortable with Gailey's system again. Like I mentioned earlier, it looked like Thigpen had a good week of practice. Thigpen's guaranteed the #2 spot so there's no real reason to watch him other than the possibility he performs really well which could cause the coaching staff to think twice during the season if Fitz continues to struggle.
Andra Davis/Spencer Johnson - 2 veteran players who have looked damn good so far but for some reason continue to be mentioned as guys who could possibly be cut for reasons I don't understand. Some have speculated that Spencer makes too much money for a backup. Some of have said that the Morrison signing could spell the end of Davis' Bills tenure. I disagree all the way around. Both men have looked good and deserve a roster spot.
Robert Eddins - the undrafted rookie from Ball State has quietly made a few nice plays. There's a bit of a logjam at the LB position (funny because we were saying the opposite just a few months ago) so it's very unlikely he'll make the opening day roster but he's a good candidate for the PS.
Chris Hairston - Hairston has been out for a few weeks with an injury. He has a lot of family at the game tonight so I expect a decent performance out of him. Despite him looking mostly clumsy in camp prior to his injury, I can't see the Bills not putting him on the 53 man roster. Here's to hoping we see something good out of the 4th rounder tonight.
Reid Forrest - Can he unseat the long tenured Brian Moorman? Did you know his net average is better than Moorman's? But can the Bills afford another PR gaff? Moorman is beloved by the community.
Here's my list of players to watch tonight and why you should be keeping a close eye on them:
MARCUS EASLEY - Easley had a rough start last week against the Broncos but as the game went on, he looked more comfortable and even made a few good catches. It's also been noted that he's had a good week of practice this week, resembling a legitimate wide receiver. This is what the Bills need after Lee Evans turned in another good performance with the Ravens. With Donald Jones out for the remainder of the preseason, this is Easley's audition for the role of the #2 receiver. It's not likely to happen this quickly but if he can turn it up a few notches tonight, he can give the coaches a reason to think twice about where he stands in this group of wide receivers. They desperately want him to be that guy but he has to prove himself first.
THE O-LINE - We all know the drill here. Basically this group of lineman has been pretty bad thus far. They need a good night to give us fans some hope going into the season. Buddy Nix told us all that they liked this group of lineman better than we do. Now it's time for this group to prove Nix right. Bell needs to redeem his god awful performance from last week. Levitre needs to establish himself as a starter once again. And they need to hold up for Fitzy.
FITZPATRICK - I've been having some conflicting opinions about our starting QB. On one hand, he's had a pretty weak camp so far. On the other hand, he's never been that type of QB to begin with. Hell, that's why Trent Edwards beat him out last year in preseason (not the only reason though). But there's one thing I strongly believe to be true about Fitz - he's a gamer. He plays best when the pressure is on and when the bullets are flying... for real. That might be enough reason for fans to want a different quarterback next year. They might want that QB who can throw a 20 yard out and looks tremendous doing so. Or they could simply say, I want my QB to be more consistent. I totally understand that. But tonight is an interesting night for Fitz. The fans seem down on him. The local media is down on him. Fitz needs to remind fans why he was basically given the job this year. Fitz can ease the minds of fans by putting up a touchdown or two (two would be great for the Bearded one). The bottom line for me is, I believe in Fitz. But for the first time in a long time, I'm starting to question him as our long term starter. I see the Bills round-up clips from their website and they feature mostly Thigpen (more on him in a bit) highlights. But I know that can change with a solid performance from him tonight. Fitz, we need your A game tonight. Yes, it's preseason, but the starting offense has yet to score a touchdown yet. They need a few tonight.
CJ SPILLER - This one could also read Fred Jackson. After all of the hoopla about Jackson's complaints this week, it will be interesting to see who has the better night tonight. Who will get the first carry? Coaches promised Fred it would be him but that could always change. Can Spiller follow up his decent performance last week with a GOOD performance on the ground? Ultimately, it doesn't really matter who has the better night because this league is a 2 back league and we need both guys for the duration of the season. What we really need to look for is CJ's progression as a blocker. He whiffed on his blitz pick ups last week and needs to show more in that department against the Jags. I also want to see more north-south running and less east-west running which gets him in trouble. Granted, he doesn't get much help with the O-line but it would be nice to see him correct some of the mistakes he made last week. Spiller is going to have a HUGE role with the Bills this season. His development is critical for the Nix/Gailey regime. He was their first pick. It's time to see some results. I could probably cut and paste this paragraph when it comes to time for "WHO TO WATCH" for the first regular season game.
MIKE CAUSSIN/ZACK PIANALTO - The more I think about it, the more I think Shawn Nelson is in danger of losing his spot on this team because of his prolonged injury that has kept him mostly out of camp and the preseason. The way I see it - Scott Chandler has the #1 TE spot locked down. David Martin will likely get that #2 spot because of his blocking abilities. And then it comes down to a 2 man race - Caussin and Pianalto. So far, Caussin has stood out more in camp and in game action.
Other notables:
Michael Jasper - Kyle Williams has been working with Jasper more. A sign that the coaching staff wants to give Jasper a real shot of making this team. I still think he's a practice squad guy right now because he's too raw at this point. He has shown VERY little in preseason games. Don't get me wrong, I, like many of you, love the Jasper story but he has to show more to justify a roster spot.
Kamar Aiken - Because of the emergence of Roosevelt and the Bills high hopes for Easley, it's unlikely he'll get a roster spot but he sure looks like a good practice squad guy right now. I really like what I've seen of Aiken so far. He's looked good in camp and I thought he looked good in his limited time last week.
Tyler Thigpen - He looked much better last week compared to his first preseason game, a sign that he is starting to feel comfortable with Gailey's system again. Like I mentioned earlier, it looked like Thigpen had a good week of practice. Thigpen's guaranteed the #2 spot so there's no real reason to watch him other than the possibility he performs really well which could cause the coaching staff to think twice during the season if Fitz continues to struggle.
Andra Davis/Spencer Johnson - 2 veteran players who have looked damn good so far but for some reason continue to be mentioned as guys who could possibly be cut for reasons I don't understand. Some have speculated that Spencer makes too much money for a backup. Some of have said that the Morrison signing could spell the end of Davis' Bills tenure. I disagree all the way around. Both men have looked good and deserve a roster spot.
Robert Eddins - the undrafted rookie from Ball State has quietly made a few nice plays. There's a bit of a logjam at the LB position (funny because we were saying the opposite just a few months ago) so it's very unlikely he'll make the opening day roster but he's a good candidate for the PS.
Chris Hairston - Hairston has been out for a few weeks with an injury. He has a lot of family at the game tonight so I expect a decent performance out of him. Despite him looking mostly clumsy in camp prior to his injury, I can't see the Bills not putting him on the 53 man roster. Here's to hoping we see something good out of the 4th rounder tonight.
Reid Forrest - Can he unseat the long tenured Brian Moorman? Did you know his net average is better than Moorman's? But can the Bills afford another PR gaff? Moorman is beloved by the community.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Bills sign LB Kirk Morrison, Dareus injured, Bills sign WR Ruvell Martin, Kelsay has eye surgery, Fred wants to get paid
BILLS SIGN MORRISON
The Bills signed free agent LB Kirk Morrison, who played with the Jacksonville Jaguars last year. He racked up 89 tackles in his lone season with the Jags. Prior to his 1 year contract with the Jags, he played 5 seasons with the Raiders where he amassed at least 100 tackles each season.
Morrison said in a radio interview that Shawne Merriman played a role in his decision to come to Buffalo. He was also a fan of Dave Wannstedt's work. It's believed that Morrison was not a good fit for the Jaguars defense and works much better in a 3-4 scheme. This move comes as a bit of a surprise because the Bills seemed set at the ILB position. This either means that Torbor's injury is worse than thought or that Arthur Moats could be moving back to OLB.
The deal is a 1 year deal worth 2 million. The Raiders were attempting to bring Morrison back but he wanted to move on from them. Here is a link to a video of Morrison mic'd up with the Jags: Morrison mic'd up.
DAREUS HURT
In the biggest scare of the day department, Marcell Dareus was seen on crutches in the locker room with his left ankle wrapped up.
Around 4:30pm Rodney McKissic from the Buffalo News tweeted the following:
@rodneyjmckissic Marcell Dareus seen walking on crutches with left ankle wrapped.
ESPN then followed up with this:
Then John Murphy tweeted the following:
Murph_on_sports: Bills Marcell Dareus not thought to be seriously injured.
Murph posted the following on WIVB's website:
The best case scenario for the Bills is if Dareus can be 100% ready for the season opener. It looks like he will be gone for a few weeks. With all of the bad news the Bills have had, this is the last thing Bills fans needed to hear. The Bills absolutely need Dareus for the season opener against the Chiefs. For once, it seems like the Bills got it right with their high first round pick and it would be a shame to see him out for any length of time.
BILLS SIGN WR
The Bills sent me a text in the afternoon announcing the signing of WR Ruvell Martin who played in 5 games with the Seahawks last year. He is a big receiver - standing in at 6'4 and 220 lbs, which fits the Buddy Nix mold of receivers. His numbers are nothing to speak of.
In their infinite wisdom they also decided to mention that he would be using the number #83 in the same text.
This is a move just to have another body around for practice and the last 2 preseason games. With the current injury situation, the Bills need more Wide Receivers around without the pressure of rushing their guys back. Donald Jones won't be back until the opener, Naaaman Roosevelt is gone for the rest of the preseason as well, Roscoe Parrish has a hamstring injury that the Bills are being extra cautious with and Craig Buster Davis is just coming back from an injury.
Here is an interview with the newly signed Martin talking about his role with the Bills: Martin talks Bills.
KELSAY CAN'T SEE
Chris Kelsay had blurry vision after taking a hit to the side of the head in the preseason game against Denver last weekend, so he decided to get his head checked out.
“I had a hole in my retina so I wanted to get that corrected and have some laser surgery done on it,” Kelsay said. ”I just wanted to do a few tests on my head. It wasn’t too bad. They just did a quick laser procedure, it literally took like 10 minutes. I’m just limited to contact for a couple of days.”
Kelsay is not expected to play in Saturday’s game.
FRED JACKSON WANTS TO GET HIS CHEDDAR
After all of that hoopla surrounding Fred Jackson and his reps, it appears it was more about Fred Jackson wanting to get paid more than anything else. Fred even mentioned this in his post practice meeting with the press. In the NFL, respect is measured by what you earn and Fred will be making less than CJ Spiller this season. As a veteran leader of this team, he felt the need to speak up about the situation.
Fred signed a bad deal a few years back and subsequently fired his agent. From what I heard, when he got wind that the Bills were opening negotiations with Kyle Williams and possibly others (Stevie Johnson is a name I've heard), and he wasn't on that list of names, he was upset. Whether the Bills give him a new deal is unknown at the moment but one thing is for sure, the Bills aren't looking to trade Jackson.
The Bills signed free agent LB Kirk Morrison, who played with the Jacksonville Jaguars last year. He racked up 89 tackles in his lone season with the Jags. Prior to his 1 year contract with the Jags, he played 5 seasons with the Raiders where he amassed at least 100 tackles each season.
Morrison said in a radio interview that Shawne Merriman played a role in his decision to come to Buffalo. He was also a fan of Dave Wannstedt's work. It's believed that Morrison was not a good fit for the Jaguars defense and works much better in a 3-4 scheme. This move comes as a bit of a surprise because the Bills seemed set at the ILB position. This either means that Torbor's injury is worse than thought or that Arthur Moats could be moving back to OLB.
The deal is a 1 year deal worth 2 million. The Raiders were attempting to bring Morrison back but he wanted to move on from them. Here is a link to a video of Morrison mic'd up with the Jags: Morrison mic'd up.
DAREUS HURT
In the biggest scare of the day department, Marcell Dareus was seen on crutches in the locker room with his left ankle wrapped up.
Around 4:30pm Rodney McKissic from the Buffalo News tweeted the following:
@rodneyjmckissic Marcell Dareus seen walking on crutches with left ankle wrapped.
ESPN then followed up with this:
A person familiar with defensive lineman Marcell Dareus' ankle injury has told The Associated Press that the Buffalo Bills are awaiting tests to determine its severity after the rookie first-round draft pick was hurt in practice.
The person spoke on the condition of anonymity, because the team has not released any information or confirmed Dareus was hurt.
The injury occurred in practice Wednesday, during a portion that is closed to reporters. Dareus was briefly spotted walking on crutches in the locker room after practice.
Then John Murphy tweeted the following:
Murph_on_sports: Bills Marcell Dareus not thought to be seriously injured.
Murph posted the following on WIVB's website:
Sources tell News 4 Sports Dareus was kicked in the calf during the portion of the afternoon workout that was closed to the media. He left practice early and reportedly was seen in the Bills locker room after practice walking on crutches, with his lower left leg heavily taped. Sources say the injury is not believed to be too serious, but Dareus could miss some time.
The best case scenario for the Bills is if Dareus can be 100% ready for the season opener. It looks like he will be gone for a few weeks. With all of the bad news the Bills have had, this is the last thing Bills fans needed to hear. The Bills absolutely need Dareus for the season opener against the Chiefs. For once, it seems like the Bills got it right with their high first round pick and it would be a shame to see him out for any length of time.
BILLS SIGN WR
The Bills sent me a text in the afternoon announcing the signing of WR Ruvell Martin who played in 5 games with the Seahawks last year. He is a big receiver - standing in at 6'4 and 220 lbs, which fits the Buddy Nix mold of receivers. His numbers are nothing to speak of.
In their infinite wisdom they also decided to mention that he would be using the number #83 in the same text.
This is a move just to have another body around for practice and the last 2 preseason games. With the current injury situation, the Bills need more Wide Receivers around without the pressure of rushing their guys back. Donald Jones won't be back until the opener, Naaaman Roosevelt is gone for the rest of the preseason as well, Roscoe Parrish has a hamstring injury that the Bills are being extra cautious with and Craig Buster Davis is just coming back from an injury.
Here is an interview with the newly signed Martin talking about his role with the Bills: Martin talks Bills.
KELSAY CAN'T SEE
Chris Kelsay had blurry vision after taking a hit to the side of the head in the preseason game against Denver last weekend, so he decided to get his head checked out.
“I had a hole in my retina so I wanted to get that corrected and have some laser surgery done on it,” Kelsay said. ”I just wanted to do a few tests on my head. It wasn’t too bad. They just did a quick laser procedure, it literally took like 10 minutes. I’m just limited to contact for a couple of days.”
Kelsay is not expected to play in Saturday’s game.
FRED JACKSON WANTS TO GET HIS CHEDDAR
After all of that hoopla surrounding Fred Jackson and his reps, it appears it was more about Fred Jackson wanting to get paid more than anything else. Fred even mentioned this in his post practice meeting with the press. In the NFL, respect is measured by what you earn and Fred will be making less than CJ Spiller this season. As a veteran leader of this team, he felt the need to speak up about the situation.
Fred signed a bad deal a few years back and subsequently fired his agent. From what I heard, when he got wind that the Bills were opening negotiations with Kyle Williams and possibly others (Stevie Johnson is a name I've heard), and he wasn't on that list of names, he was upset. Whether the Bills give him a new deal is unknown at the moment but one thing is for sure, the Bills aren't looking to trade Jackson.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Bell loses reps at LT, Roosevelt out, Pryor interest, Key players back, White & Jones update, and Fred Jackson possibly unseated?
BELL LOSES REPS AT LT
Andy Levitre took some reps with the first team unit yesterday as the Left Tackle. This is clearly not a good sign for Demetrius Bell. Bell has been inconsistent from the start of camp. Bell had a decent year last year and that was coming off a pretty serious knee injury. He had that built in excuse. The coaching staff believed that with another off-season of strengthening that knee and improving his upper body strength, he could be formidable Left Tackle in this league. So far, he's been disappointing. His performance against the Broncos was not good. In fact, it was one of the worst of his career. Then again, it was a preseason game. All offensive and defensive schemes were very basic, line up and see who can play type of schemes. This doesn't necessarily spell the end of Bell's tenure at LT but it certainly can be seen as a wake up call for Bell. Gailey has done this a few times at other positions.
Back to Levitre, who has to taken reps at just about every position on the line. He was under center, played guard and is now trying the left tackle spot with the team. The thing this line needs is consistency. Figure out who you like on the line, keep them there and roll with it until September 11th. This should have been addressed sooner. This again raises the question, why didn't Buddy Nix and Doug Whaley bring in more competition for the line? They still have roster openings and it looks like they have no desire to try out any free agent veterans. If the line fails again this year, the front office deserves all of the criticism and blame that they will surely receive from the fans.
ROOSEVELT OUT FOR REMAINDER OF PRESEASON
Naaman Roosevelt is out for the rest of the preseason. His ankle was rolled up near the end of the Broncos game. I'm not sure how this affects his status on the team but if I were a betting man, he's done enough to make the team. The only way he's in danger is if Craig Buster Davis comes back and plays lights out while providing some veteran leadership on that receiving corps. Very unlikley to happen.
Another possibility is if Kamar Aiken keeps showing enough to justify keeping him. I've kept my eye on this kid and I think he can play. He's got good size and runs good routes. He deserves a stronger look. Aiken is a good candidate for the practice squad. Because of Roosevelt's experience with the team last year and familiarity with the offense, I can't see them cutting him but nothing would surprise me with this team.
PRYOR INTEREST
Chris Brown (of Buffalobills.com, not the abusive rapper/singer) revealed that the Bills were interested in Terrelle Pryor. They weren't interested in giving up the 3rd round pick that the Raiders gave up but possibly a low round pick. With Thigpen and Brad Smith as your guys behind Fitzpatrick, I'm not sure where Pryor would have fit in. I'm guessing they could have eventually listed Smith as a WR and kept Pryor as the #3.
BILLS GET KEY PLAYERS BACK
Shawne Merriman, Roscoe Parrish, and Kelvin Sheppard all returned to practice yesterday. Encouraging news for Bills fans. They desperately need Merriman and Parrish to stay healthy. Parrish is still limited in practice.
EDIT/UPDATE: Merriman and Roscoe Parrish are back to sitting out of practice today along with a list of others. More later.
LONG DAY
Yesterday was a long day for the players. Practice and meetings ran from 3pm until 9pm at night. Meetings also took place earlier in the day as well.
WHITE AND JONES WILL BE BACK
The Bills got some good news after some injury concerns from Saturday's game. Donald Jones and Johnny White will be back for the regular season opener against the Chiefs. Both will miss the rest of the preseason.
“They’re both going to be back for the first ball game as I understand it,” Gailey said. ”Johnny will probably be back a little quicker than Donald, but I think they’ll both make the first ball game.”
FRED JACKSON DOWN THE DEPTH CHART?
Tim Graham tweeted the following on Saturday:
ByTimGraham: Hearing more and more Bills top RB job is C.J. Spiller's to lose, not Fred Jackson's.
Chan Gailey also revealed that he viewed Fred Jackson and CJ Spiller as #1's and that right now Fred was just a little bit ahead. Spiller got a good, long look on Saturday. Clearly they have an investment in Spiller and want to see some results this season. They are going to give Spiller every opportunity to win the job but it won't be easy because Fred Jackson has been in this position before. Fred has been constantly overlooked, under-appreciated and an after thought to most coaching staffs during his tenure with the Bills.
Most people point to his age right now as a reason to move Spiller up. Jackson is 30 years old. The thing is, he has low mileage on him comparatively speaking. He hasn't slowed down a bit. He was never the fastest guy to begin with. What makes Jackson such a good football player is his never say die attitude. He never quits on any play. He fights for extra yardage and is often successful getting that extra yard when you need it. He's one of the best run blocking backs in the league. He's also a receiving threat coming out of the backfield.
There is no denying Spiller's abilities. He is dangerous when he has space in front of him. He even looked better running the ball against the Broncos. But his biggest issue right now is picking up blitzes. He was on the wrong side when a would-be blitzer brought Fitzpatrick down for a sack on Saturday. If he could clean that up, I could see the Bills wanting to make him their #1 guy but with the offensive line looking so awful, they need all of the blocking help they can get and Fred provides stability there. Besides all of that, Fred is the unquestioned "heart and soul" of this team as his Quarterback said yesterday. He is one of the few veteran leaders left. Based on his comments to the Buffalo News, Fred is pissed off.
"I was shocked," Jackson said. "I feel like a No. 1 back, and I should be treated like one. As far as what's going on, you would have to ask them. I'm going to come out here and compete. I feel like I have been competing. I feel like I have done everything I can. It's been like that for two or three years, and nothing has changed."
Gailey tried to cool the situation down. "I told him what we were going to do," Gailey said. "Nothing has changed on our thoughts with Fred and where Fred is for our football team. He's a major part of what we're trying to get done here. I would hate for somebody to feel underappreciated because it's not true from my standpoint."
Fred also retweeted a bunch of comments from fans and players. Here's a few from former Bill Kawika Mitchell:
@KawikaMitchellBruh bruh... every1 in the locker room knows what u bring 2 the table and knows you've earned it and more.-already Bruh Bruh!
@Fred22Jackson everything you want in a player. Leader, solid man off the field, versatile on the field. Baller!
Andy Levitre took some reps with the first team unit yesterday as the Left Tackle. This is clearly not a good sign for Demetrius Bell. Bell has been inconsistent from the start of camp. Bell had a decent year last year and that was coming off a pretty serious knee injury. He had that built in excuse. The coaching staff believed that with another off-season of strengthening that knee and improving his upper body strength, he could be formidable Left Tackle in this league. So far, he's been disappointing. His performance against the Broncos was not good. In fact, it was one of the worst of his career. Then again, it was a preseason game. All offensive and defensive schemes were very basic, line up and see who can play type of schemes. This doesn't necessarily spell the end of Bell's tenure at LT but it certainly can be seen as a wake up call for Bell. Gailey has done this a few times at other positions.
Back to Levitre, who has to taken reps at just about every position on the line. He was under center, played guard and is now trying the left tackle spot with the team. The thing this line needs is consistency. Figure out who you like on the line, keep them there and roll with it until September 11th. This should have been addressed sooner. This again raises the question, why didn't Buddy Nix and Doug Whaley bring in more competition for the line? They still have roster openings and it looks like they have no desire to try out any free agent veterans. If the line fails again this year, the front office deserves all of the criticism and blame that they will surely receive from the fans.
ROOSEVELT OUT FOR REMAINDER OF PRESEASON
Naaman Roosevelt is out for the rest of the preseason. His ankle was rolled up near the end of the Broncos game. I'm not sure how this affects his status on the team but if I were a betting man, he's done enough to make the team. The only way he's in danger is if Craig Buster Davis comes back and plays lights out while providing some veteran leadership on that receiving corps. Very unlikley to happen.
Another possibility is if Kamar Aiken keeps showing enough to justify keeping him. I've kept my eye on this kid and I think he can play. He's got good size and runs good routes. He deserves a stronger look. Aiken is a good candidate for the practice squad. Because of Roosevelt's experience with the team last year and familiarity with the offense, I can't see them cutting him but nothing would surprise me with this team.
PRYOR INTEREST
Chris Brown (of Buffalobills.com, not the abusive rapper/singer) revealed that the Bills were interested in Terrelle Pryor. They weren't interested in giving up the 3rd round pick that the Raiders gave up but possibly a low round pick. With Thigpen and Brad Smith as your guys behind Fitzpatrick, I'm not sure where Pryor would have fit in. I'm guessing they could have eventually listed Smith as a WR and kept Pryor as the #3.
BILLS GET KEY PLAYERS BACK
Shawne Merriman, Roscoe Parrish, and Kelvin Sheppard all returned to practice yesterday. Encouraging news for Bills fans. They desperately need Merriman and Parrish to stay healthy. Parrish is still limited in practice.
EDIT/UPDATE: Merriman and Roscoe Parrish are back to sitting out of practice today along with a list of others. More later.
LONG DAY
Yesterday was a long day for the players. Practice and meetings ran from 3pm until 9pm at night. Meetings also took place earlier in the day as well.
WHITE AND JONES WILL BE BACK
The Bills got some good news after some injury concerns from Saturday's game. Donald Jones and Johnny White will be back for the regular season opener against the Chiefs. Both will miss the rest of the preseason.
“They’re both going to be back for the first ball game as I understand it,” Gailey said. ”Johnny will probably be back a little quicker than Donald, but I think they’ll both make the first ball game.”
FRED JACKSON DOWN THE DEPTH CHART?
Tim Graham tweeted the following on Saturday:
ByTimGraham: Hearing more and more Bills top RB job is C.J. Spiller's to lose, not Fred Jackson's.
Chan Gailey also revealed that he viewed Fred Jackson and CJ Spiller as #1's and that right now Fred was just a little bit ahead. Spiller got a good, long look on Saturday. Clearly they have an investment in Spiller and want to see some results this season. They are going to give Spiller every opportunity to win the job but it won't be easy because Fred Jackson has been in this position before. Fred has been constantly overlooked, under-appreciated and an after thought to most coaching staffs during his tenure with the Bills.
Most people point to his age right now as a reason to move Spiller up. Jackson is 30 years old. The thing is, he has low mileage on him comparatively speaking. He hasn't slowed down a bit. He was never the fastest guy to begin with. What makes Jackson such a good football player is his never say die attitude. He never quits on any play. He fights for extra yardage and is often successful getting that extra yard when you need it. He's one of the best run blocking backs in the league. He's also a receiving threat coming out of the backfield.
There is no denying Spiller's abilities. He is dangerous when he has space in front of him. He even looked better running the ball against the Broncos. But his biggest issue right now is picking up blitzes. He was on the wrong side when a would-be blitzer brought Fitzpatrick down for a sack on Saturday. If he could clean that up, I could see the Bills wanting to make him their #1 guy but with the offensive line looking so awful, they need all of the blocking help they can get and Fred provides stability there. Besides all of that, Fred is the unquestioned "heart and soul" of this team as his Quarterback said yesterday. He is one of the few veteran leaders left. Based on his comments to the Buffalo News, Fred is pissed off.
"I was shocked," Jackson said. "I feel like a No. 1 back, and I should be treated like one. As far as what's going on, you would have to ask them. I'm going to come out here and compete. I feel like I have been competing. I feel like I have done everything I can. It's been like that for two or three years, and nothing has changed."
Gailey tried to cool the situation down. "I told him what we were going to do," Gailey said. "Nothing has changed on our thoughts with Fred and where Fred is for our football team. He's a major part of what we're trying to get done here. I would hate for somebody to feel underappreciated because it's not true from my standpoint."
Fred also retweeted a bunch of comments from fans and players. Here's a few from former Bill Kawika Mitchell:
@KawikaMitchellBruh bruh... every1 in the locker room knows what u bring 2 the table and knows you've earned it and more.-already Bruh Bruh!
@Fred22Jackson everything you want in a player. Leader, solid man off the field, versatile on the field. Baller!
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Positives & Negatives for Bills v. Broncos
POSITIVES
Thigpen - Better showing from Thigpen who was under pressure most of the night. He looked much better compared to last week. His touchdown toss to Huggins was really good.
Barnett - Up and down night for Barnett who over pursued on a few plays but made more positive plays than negative. I think he'll be a guy who makes a lot of plays this year. He'll get caught relying on his instincts sometimes but more often than not that will work out in his favor.
Dareus - #99 came through with another sack against the first teamers. This guy is the real deal and should have a great season. I hope Merriman can play next Saturday against the Jags. I'd love to see these 2 guys next to each other again. I feel like this defense is infinitely more exciting with Dareus and Merriman in there next to Kyle Williams.
Troup - Despite being handicapped with that club, Troup is still making plays out there. I look forward to him getting rid of that club and being back to 100%. This could be a big year for him if he can stay healthy. He's worked his ass off this offseason.
CJ Spiller - Spiller logged in a lot of time as the #1 back. He looked really good on some runs and some receiving plays as well. He needs to work on his blitz pick up big time. Fred Jackson is so much better in that area. I'll throw him in the positive side because of some of those runs and catches.
Aiken - Did some good work in garbage time. I would like to see him get a few more reps with the 2nd team.
NEGATIVES
Demetrius Bell - Bell's worst performance in a long time. I'm beginning to seriously question the decision to not bring in any competition for Bell who isn't looking like our long term Left Tackle. He has to rebound with a better performance next week, otherwise Gailey is going to have to make some tough decisions about his line.
OL - See above. The line was not good enough. Some of that was Bell. Some of that was Pears. Some of that was Wood. They need another full half of playing time next week. Nix not bringing in any free agent tackles or guards is the most disappointing thing of this offseason. If they continue this downward spiral, Nix has some explaining to do. Luckily for him, it's still preseason.
Fitz - Rough outing for Fitzpatrick, who occasionally has these types of games. Some of it wasn't his fault as he had no time but other times he just threw some really bad balls. Fitz needs to rebound next week. The first team offense has yet to score a touchdown in preseason. The fans are definitely having doubts about him right now. A strong performance against the Jags could really help his case going into the regular season as the guy.
McKelvin - For all of the talk that McKelvin was having a strong camp, I have yet to see the results during these 2 preseason games. Orton seemed to go after him at one point during the game.
Alex Carrington - I expected more from him with the first teamers. He stands out more against the second stringers. I have high hopes for Carrington but I need to see more. He's still developing as a football player so it's nothing to worry about right now. This is a big season for him and his progress or lack thereof will be tracked this year.
QUICK HITS
These teams play each other later this year so what you saw tonight isn't what you'll see later. Very basic offensive and defensive packages. Neither team was going to give away much....I wanted to see what Batten could do in a bigger role but I wasn't as impressed this week...Fred Jackson, because of his passion and leadership, should still be the #1 RB going into the season. I have a feeling they are leaning towards Spiller because of their investment in him.... Loved the guys fighting back after the Donald Jones hit... Michael Jasper had a rough night. Every time I saw him he was either being pushed back or being stuffed at the line... Reid Forrest didn't really standout tonight. He has to in order for the Bills to justify getting rid of Moorman....Eddins made another play tonight by sacking Tebow. The undrafted rookie out of Ball State is doing his best to get the coaches attention.
In case you missed it, read the 2 posts below this where I go over every play of the Bills v. Broncos game.
Thigpen - Better showing from Thigpen who was under pressure most of the night. He looked much better compared to last week. His touchdown toss to Huggins was really good.
Barnett - Up and down night for Barnett who over pursued on a few plays but made more positive plays than negative. I think he'll be a guy who makes a lot of plays this year. He'll get caught relying on his instincts sometimes but more often than not that will work out in his favor.
Dareus - #99 came through with another sack against the first teamers. This guy is the real deal and should have a great season. I hope Merriman can play next Saturday against the Jags. I'd love to see these 2 guys next to each other again. I feel like this defense is infinitely more exciting with Dareus and Merriman in there next to Kyle Williams.
Troup - Despite being handicapped with that club, Troup is still making plays out there. I look forward to him getting rid of that club and being back to 100%. This could be a big year for him if he can stay healthy. He's worked his ass off this offseason.
CJ Spiller - Spiller logged in a lot of time as the #1 back. He looked really good on some runs and some receiving plays as well. He needs to work on his blitz pick up big time. Fred Jackson is so much better in that area. I'll throw him in the positive side because of some of those runs and catches.
Aiken - Did some good work in garbage time. I would like to see him get a few more reps with the 2nd team.
NEGATIVES
Demetrius Bell - Bell's worst performance in a long time. I'm beginning to seriously question the decision to not bring in any competition for Bell who isn't looking like our long term Left Tackle. He has to rebound with a better performance next week, otherwise Gailey is going to have to make some tough decisions about his line.
OL - See above. The line was not good enough. Some of that was Bell. Some of that was Pears. Some of that was Wood. They need another full half of playing time next week. Nix not bringing in any free agent tackles or guards is the most disappointing thing of this offseason. If they continue this downward spiral, Nix has some explaining to do. Luckily for him, it's still preseason.
Fitz - Rough outing for Fitzpatrick, who occasionally has these types of games. Some of it wasn't his fault as he had no time but other times he just threw some really bad balls. Fitz needs to rebound next week. The first team offense has yet to score a touchdown in preseason. The fans are definitely having doubts about him right now. A strong performance against the Jags could really help his case going into the regular season as the guy.
McKelvin - For all of the talk that McKelvin was having a strong camp, I have yet to see the results during these 2 preseason games. Orton seemed to go after him at one point during the game.
Alex Carrington - I expected more from him with the first teamers. He stands out more against the second stringers. I have high hopes for Carrington but I need to see more. He's still developing as a football player so it's nothing to worry about right now. This is a big season for him and his progress or lack thereof will be tracked this year.
QUICK HITS
These teams play each other later this year so what you saw tonight isn't what you'll see later. Very basic offensive and defensive packages. Neither team was going to give away much....I wanted to see what Batten could do in a bigger role but I wasn't as impressed this week...Fred Jackson, because of his passion and leadership, should still be the #1 RB going into the season. I have a feeling they are leaning towards Spiller because of their investment in him.... Loved the guys fighting back after the Donald Jones hit... Michael Jasper had a rough night. Every time I saw him he was either being pushed back or being stuffed at the line... Reid Forrest didn't really standout tonight. He has to in order for the Bills to justify getting rid of Moorman....Eddins made another play tonight by sacking Tebow. The undrafted rookie out of Ball State is doing his best to get the coaches attention.
In case you missed it, read the 2 posts below this where I go over every play of the Bills v. Broncos game.
Complete 1st Half Review of Bills v. Broncos (Preseason Game #2)
1st and 10 (Bills)
Spiller gets the first carry, gets about 5.
2nd and 5
Broken play that results in Fitzpatrick scrambling for a few yards.
3rd and 1
Short run by Spiller who came up short of the first down. Wood lost control of Bunkley.
4th and 2
Fake punt, Brad Smith ran it for a few yards to pick up the first.
1st and 10
Spiller found a seam to the right side and picked up a first down. Urbik and Pears did a real good job here. Nice run.
1st and 10
Screen play to Spiller who picked up a few. Urbik looked lost. Wood and Levitre provided some blocking down field but Spiller never got to the next level.
2nd and 7
Completion to Stevie Johnson. Blitz by the Broncos. Spiller did not pick up the right guy. Fitz had to get rid of this RIGHT AWAY. Good catch by Stevie. First down.
1st and 10
Empty backfield. Tight end screen. Close to another first down. Fitz to Chandler.
2nd and 1
Nice run to the left by Fred Jackson. Stevie Johnson provided a nice block on the outside. Jackson picked up about 8.
1st and 10
Incompletion. Quick throw to the outside to Chandler but this wasn't close. Errant throw by Fitz.
2nd and 10
Blitz coming. Incompletion. Fitz threw the fade to Donald Jones who beat his guy and was open but Fitz underthrew him by a yard. Fitz has to hit the corner of that endzone. Jones didn't have a shot. The defender almost picked it off.
3rd and 10
Incompletion. Bell was schooled here. Jackson picked up his guy perfectly but Dumerville schooled Bell. Fitz basically threw it away. Naaman was in the vicinity.
FIELD GOAL
Bills 3-0
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Completion to #80. Play-action pass by Orton. Barnett brought #80 down. Short completion.
2nd and 5
Run to the right. Short gain. Kelsay in on the tackle.
3rd and 3
Completion to #84. Good timing throw. McKelvin was the defender. Easy first down.
1st and 10
Run play sniffed out by Davis, Edwards and Barnett.
2nd and 9
Nowhere to go for Orton who was SACKED by Dareus. Kyle Williams was close to getting him as well.
3rd and 14
Completion to Eddie Royal but flags are down. Illegal formation by O. Defense had 12 guys on the field. Penalties offset, repeat down.
3rd and 14
Incompletion. Royal dropped it. Not even close to a first down anyways. 3 man rush that put no pressure on Orton.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bills)
Incompletion. Too high for Stevie Johnson. Fitz had some time here.
2nd and 10
SACK by Von Miller who schooled Bell. Fitz didn't have a chance here.
3rd and 18
Screen play to Fred Jackson who picked up about 8.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Run to the left by Moreno who picked up 8. McGee made the tackle.
2nd and 2
Orton dumped it off to Moreno who picked up a bunch again. Barnett over pursued Moreno. Byrd knocked him out of bounds.
1st and 10
Incompletion. Barnett tipped the ball. Good play by Barnett. Pressure was coming from Dareus.
2nd and 10
McGahee runs to the right for a few yards. Kelsay made the tackle along with Dareus.
3rd and 8
Orton completion to Moreno. Way too much time for Orton. First down.
1st and 10
Completion. Play-action pass to the outside to #84. Orton was flushed outside. McGee was on coverage.
1st and 10
McGahee run sniffed out by Spencer Johnson and Andra Davis. Mostly Johnson.
2nd and 10
Screen play to McGahee who picks up a bunch and puts the Broncos near the goal line. Barnett and Troup got tangled up which gave McGahee a big lane to run through. Wilson missed on a tackle attempt as well.
1st and Goal
McGahee runs inside for the TOUCHDOWN. Defensive lineman got penetration but couldn't make the tackle.
Broncos 7-3.
1st and 10 (Bills)
Incompletion. Fitz tried throwing to the back shoulder of Stevie. Bad throw. Fitz locked in on Stevie here.
2nd and 10
Completion to Spiller. Spiller ran a slant route here. Some extra curricular activity after the play involving one of the Broncos ripping Spiller's helmet off.
3rd and 2
Inside run to the left by Fred Jackson who picks up the first down. Rinehart did his job here. Bell did well here as well.
1st and 10
Brad Smith in. Just a few yards gained. Wildcat play. Spiller has to do some work on his blocking.
2nd and 8
Short run by Spiller who had nowhere to go. Dumerville in on the play.
3rd and 8
Incompletion. Intended for Roosevelt who was covered by Champ Bailey, who swatted the ball away at the last second. Questionable decision by Fitz.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Orton completes one down the middle to a wide open TE Fells. McKelvin was in coverage. First down.
1st and 10
Quick inside completion to Lloyd. Guess who was on coverage? McKelvin.
2nd and 2
Moreno runs inside for the first down pickup. Carrington made the tackle.
1st and 10
Moreno runs left for another nice gain. Moreno pie-faced Florence at the end of the play.
2nd and 1
Incompletion. Orton went deep left to Lloyd who almost made a ridiculous catch. Florence was on coverage.
3rd and 1
McGahee patiently runs for the first down. George Wilson eventually brought him down. Barnett in on the tackle as well.
1st and 10
Reverse play to Royal who was brought down by Barnett right away. Good read by Barnett.
2nd and 11
Orton completes one to Lloyd for a gain of 12 and picks up the first down. Florence was in coverage. Good timing play.
1st and 10
Moreno runs for a few yards to the right. George Wilson made the stop. Batten in as well.
2nd and 8
TOUCHDOWN. Orton throws out to the right to McGahee who was wide open and goes in for 6. Torbor was the closest guy to McGahee. Blown assignment by the Bills.
Broncos 14-3
1st and 10 (Bills)
Incompletion. Batted down by Bunkley. Dangerous play. Could have been caught and ran in for the touchdown but Bunkley took his eyes off the ball for a second. Intended target was Donald Jones.
2nd and 10
Big pressure by DJ Williams that led to another completion. Spiller once again missed a blocking assignment and DJ ran in untouched. Intended target was Chandler who wasn't even looking.
3rd and 10
Von Miller got a really good jump. Flag down. Offsides, defense. That explains it.
3rd and 5
5 wide. Completion to Fred Jackson who stretched out just enough to get the first down. Ball came loose at the end but he was down. Broncos defender pushed Jackson who bent awkwardly. Flag down. Roughing the passer by #92. Pears did a poor job here.
1st and 10
Spiller runs to the right but has nowhere to go.
2nd and 11
Run play that was completely botched. Spiller and Fitz collided. On top of that, Bell was absolutely blown up by Dumerville. Big loss
3rd and 19
Incompletion. Fitz went down the right sideline to Donald Jones who was crushed on this play. Helmet to helmet hit by Moore. Flag down. Brutal hit. Players from both teams are going at it. Stevie Johnson and Fred Jackson are livid. Cory McIntyre is going off as well.
1st and 10
Incompletion. Fitz threw a quick slant to Stevie but the ball was behind Stevie. That's on Fitz.
2nd and 10
BIG run to the right by Fred Jackson, who was running like a man who is pissed off. First down. Great blocking downfield by David Nelson.
1st and 10
Run to the middle by Fred Jackson for no gain.
2nd and 10
INTERCEPTED by DJ Williams. Bell was blown up again. Ball was on target to Easley who tipped it. A few bounces later Williams got it. Easley should have caught that. That's on him.
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Brady Quinn in.
Run play to the right for a pick up of about 5. Corto brought him down.
2 minute warning.
2nd and 5
Another run play to the right. Spencer Johnson and Arthur Moats in on the stop.
3rd and 1
Quick hand off to RB Ball who got just enough for the first down.
1st and 10
Completion to WR #12. Quinn had ALL DAY to throw here. Corto in coverage.
1st and 10
Incompletion. Almost intercepted by Corner who tipped the ball and Corto had a shot at it but was more focused on the hit than the ball. Spencer Johnson with a nice push here.
2nd and 10
Completion to Eddie Royal who picks up more than 15. Talk about no pressure at all.
1st and 10
Completion to Ball for another first down. Batten brought big time pressure. Flag down. Roughing the QB by Batten. Batten slammed him into the ground. It wasn't a late hit, it was Batten driving him into the ground.
1st and Goal
Run play by Ball for a short gain. Time out. 7 seconds left in the half.
2nd and Goal
INTERCEPTED by McGee who runs for 40 yards. Ball was tipped at the line. I believe it was Spencer Johnson who tipped it. Nice way to close out an ugly first half.
Spiller gets the first carry, gets about 5.
2nd and 5
Broken play that results in Fitzpatrick scrambling for a few yards.
3rd and 1
Short run by Spiller who came up short of the first down. Wood lost control of Bunkley.
4th and 2
Fake punt, Brad Smith ran it for a few yards to pick up the first.
1st and 10
Spiller found a seam to the right side and picked up a first down. Urbik and Pears did a real good job here. Nice run.
1st and 10
Screen play to Spiller who picked up a few. Urbik looked lost. Wood and Levitre provided some blocking down field but Spiller never got to the next level.
2nd and 7
Completion to Stevie Johnson. Blitz by the Broncos. Spiller did not pick up the right guy. Fitz had to get rid of this RIGHT AWAY. Good catch by Stevie. First down.
1st and 10
Empty backfield. Tight end screen. Close to another first down. Fitz to Chandler.
2nd and 1
Nice run to the left by Fred Jackson. Stevie Johnson provided a nice block on the outside. Jackson picked up about 8.
1st and 10
Incompletion. Quick throw to the outside to Chandler but this wasn't close. Errant throw by Fitz.
2nd and 10
Blitz coming. Incompletion. Fitz threw the fade to Donald Jones who beat his guy and was open but Fitz underthrew him by a yard. Fitz has to hit the corner of that endzone. Jones didn't have a shot. The defender almost picked it off.
3rd and 10
Incompletion. Bell was schooled here. Jackson picked up his guy perfectly but Dumerville schooled Bell. Fitz basically threw it away. Naaman was in the vicinity.
FIELD GOAL
Bills 3-0
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Completion to #80. Play-action pass by Orton. Barnett brought #80 down. Short completion.
2nd and 5
Run to the right. Short gain. Kelsay in on the tackle.
3rd and 3
Completion to #84. Good timing throw. McKelvin was the defender. Easy first down.
1st and 10
Run play sniffed out by Davis, Edwards and Barnett.
2nd and 9
Nowhere to go for Orton who was SACKED by Dareus. Kyle Williams was close to getting him as well.
3rd and 14
Completion to Eddie Royal but flags are down. Illegal formation by O. Defense had 12 guys on the field. Penalties offset, repeat down.
3rd and 14
Incompletion. Royal dropped it. Not even close to a first down anyways. 3 man rush that put no pressure on Orton.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bills)
Incompletion. Too high for Stevie Johnson. Fitz had some time here.
2nd and 10
SACK by Von Miller who schooled Bell. Fitz didn't have a chance here.
3rd and 18
Screen play to Fred Jackson who picked up about 8.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Run to the left by Moreno who picked up 8. McGee made the tackle.
2nd and 2
Orton dumped it off to Moreno who picked up a bunch again. Barnett over pursued Moreno. Byrd knocked him out of bounds.
1st and 10
Incompletion. Barnett tipped the ball. Good play by Barnett. Pressure was coming from Dareus.
2nd and 10
McGahee runs to the right for a few yards. Kelsay made the tackle along with Dareus.
3rd and 8
Orton completion to Moreno. Way too much time for Orton. First down.
1st and 10
Completion. Play-action pass to the outside to #84. Orton was flushed outside. McGee was on coverage.
1st and 10
McGahee run sniffed out by Spencer Johnson and Andra Davis. Mostly Johnson.
2nd and 10
Screen play to McGahee who picks up a bunch and puts the Broncos near the goal line. Barnett and Troup got tangled up which gave McGahee a big lane to run through. Wilson missed on a tackle attempt as well.
1st and Goal
McGahee runs inside for the TOUCHDOWN. Defensive lineman got penetration but couldn't make the tackle.
Broncos 7-3.
1st and 10 (Bills)
Incompletion. Fitz tried throwing to the back shoulder of Stevie. Bad throw. Fitz locked in on Stevie here.
2nd and 10
Completion to Spiller. Spiller ran a slant route here. Some extra curricular activity after the play involving one of the Broncos ripping Spiller's helmet off.
3rd and 2
Inside run to the left by Fred Jackson who picks up the first down. Rinehart did his job here. Bell did well here as well.
1st and 10
Brad Smith in. Just a few yards gained. Wildcat play. Spiller has to do some work on his blocking.
2nd and 8
Short run by Spiller who had nowhere to go. Dumerville in on the play.
3rd and 8
Incompletion. Intended for Roosevelt who was covered by Champ Bailey, who swatted the ball away at the last second. Questionable decision by Fitz.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Orton completes one down the middle to a wide open TE Fells. McKelvin was in coverage. First down.
1st and 10
Quick inside completion to Lloyd. Guess who was on coverage? McKelvin.
2nd and 2
Moreno runs inside for the first down pickup. Carrington made the tackle.
1st and 10
Moreno runs left for another nice gain. Moreno pie-faced Florence at the end of the play.
2nd and 1
Incompletion. Orton went deep left to Lloyd who almost made a ridiculous catch. Florence was on coverage.
3rd and 1
McGahee patiently runs for the first down. George Wilson eventually brought him down. Barnett in on the tackle as well.
1st and 10
Reverse play to Royal who was brought down by Barnett right away. Good read by Barnett.
2nd and 11
Orton completes one to Lloyd for a gain of 12 and picks up the first down. Florence was in coverage. Good timing play.
1st and 10
Moreno runs for a few yards to the right. George Wilson made the stop. Batten in as well.
2nd and 8
TOUCHDOWN. Orton throws out to the right to McGahee who was wide open and goes in for 6. Torbor was the closest guy to McGahee. Blown assignment by the Bills.
Broncos 14-3
1st and 10 (Bills)
Incompletion. Batted down by Bunkley. Dangerous play. Could have been caught and ran in for the touchdown but Bunkley took his eyes off the ball for a second. Intended target was Donald Jones.
2nd and 10
Big pressure by DJ Williams that led to another completion. Spiller once again missed a blocking assignment and DJ ran in untouched. Intended target was Chandler who wasn't even looking.
3rd and 10
Von Miller got a really good jump. Flag down. Offsides, defense. That explains it.
3rd and 5
5 wide. Completion to Fred Jackson who stretched out just enough to get the first down. Ball came loose at the end but he was down. Broncos defender pushed Jackson who bent awkwardly. Flag down. Roughing the passer by #92. Pears did a poor job here.
1st and 10
Spiller runs to the right but has nowhere to go.
2nd and 11
Run play that was completely botched. Spiller and Fitz collided. On top of that, Bell was absolutely blown up by Dumerville. Big loss
3rd and 19
Incompletion. Fitz went down the right sideline to Donald Jones who was crushed on this play. Helmet to helmet hit by Moore. Flag down. Brutal hit. Players from both teams are going at it. Stevie Johnson and Fred Jackson are livid. Cory McIntyre is going off as well.
1st and 10
Incompletion. Fitz threw a quick slant to Stevie but the ball was behind Stevie. That's on Fitz.
2nd and 10
BIG run to the right by Fred Jackson, who was running like a man who is pissed off. First down. Great blocking downfield by David Nelson.
1st and 10
Run to the middle by Fred Jackson for no gain.
2nd and 10
INTERCEPTED by DJ Williams. Bell was blown up again. Ball was on target to Easley who tipped it. A few bounces later Williams got it. Easley should have caught that. That's on him.
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Brady Quinn in.
Run play to the right for a pick up of about 5. Corto brought him down.
2 minute warning.
2nd and 5
Another run play to the right. Spencer Johnson and Arthur Moats in on the stop.
3rd and 1
Quick hand off to RB Ball who got just enough for the first down.
1st and 10
Completion to WR #12. Quinn had ALL DAY to throw here. Corto in coverage.
1st and 10
Incompletion. Almost intercepted by Corner who tipped the ball and Corto had a shot at it but was more focused on the hit than the ball. Spencer Johnson with a nice push here.
2nd and 10
Completion to Eddie Royal who picks up more than 15. Talk about no pressure at all.
1st and 10
Completion to Ball for another first down. Batten brought big time pressure. Flag down. Roughing the QB by Batten. Batten slammed him into the ground. It wasn't a late hit, it was Batten driving him into the ground.
1st and Goal
Run play by Ball for a short gain. Time out. 7 seconds left in the half.
2nd and Goal
INTERCEPTED by McGee who runs for 40 yards. Ball was tipped at the line. I believe it was Spencer Johnson who tipped it. Nice way to close out an ugly first half.
Complete 2nd Half Review of Bills v. Broncos (Preseason Game #2)
Denver kicks it into the back of the endzone for another touchback.
1st and 10
Run play to J White who was thrown to the ground by former Bill Mario Haggan. White hit his head on the turf on the way down. White was on the field for a long time and eventually carted off.
2nd and 11
Thigpen with the 5 step drop and completes one outside to Naaman Roosevelt for a gain of a few.
3rd and 3
Very similar play call except Huggins couldn't bring it in. He should have caught it.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Run to the left by Ball who was taken down by Batten and Corner. Holding call on #85 (offense) though. Decent push by Troup.
1st and 20
Quick throw to the right. Completion to Decker. Corner made the stop.
2nd and 16
Another short pass but broken up by Means. Good play by Means.
3rd and 16
ANOTHER pass break up by Reggie Corner this time, intended for Decker. QB had a lot of time. Poor pass rush.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bills)
Nice run to the right by Bruce Hall. Levitre held his man up here. First down.
1st and 10
Play-action quick throw to Roosevelt for a short completion. Haggan was injured on the play.
2nd and 6
Incompletion. Intended for David Martin who had a guy all over him. Offensive line broke down here.
3rd and 6
Incompletion. Intended for Hall but Thigpen threw it a bit too high.
PUNT (by Reid Forrest)
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Incompletion. Quinn threw it away. Troup had great pressure here. He blew threw the line and would have had Quinn for the sack if he wasn't wearing the club which prevented a grip on Quinn.
2nd and 10
Run play to Minor. Little gain. Troup fought off too defenders here and still made a play. Hicks made initial contact.
3rd and 9
First down completion to WR Decker. Quinn had plenty of time and found Decker. Scott pushed him out of bounds.
1st and 10
Nice run by Minor for another first down. Hicks and Scott in on the tackle. Jasper was stuffed here.
1st and 10
Movement on the line, 5 yard penalty.
1st and 15
Quick pitch to RB Johnson who gained about 7 before being brought down by Aaron Williams. The defensive line looked brutal here. 3rd stringers in.
2nd and 7
TOUCHDOWN to WR Davis from Quinn. Quinn had a ton of time. Davis beat Reggie Corner for the easy touchdown. No safety help.
Denver 24-3
1st and 10
Incompletion. Play-action pass down the middle to Roosevelt who dropped it. Wouldve been a nice gain. Tasker said it was off target. I disagree. Well thrown ball into Zone coverage.
2nd and 10
Screen play to Pianalto who picks up a few yards.
3rd and 5
Completion to Kamar Aiken who picked up the first down. About a gain of 8. Nice throw and catch.
1st and 10
Run to the outside by Elzy. Nice gain. Caussin with the nice block on the outside.
2nd and 1
Another run by Elzy who was met at the line.
3rd and 1
Brad Smith checks in at QB. Run play by Elzy who picks up the first.
1st and 10
Thigpen back in. Thigpen was flushed out right and had a ton of pressure coming his way. He threw it away.
2nd and 10
More pressure coming Thigpen's way but he was able to get it to his hot read (Elzy) for a decent completion. Offensive line looked confused by the blitz.
3rd and 4
Run play by Bruce Hall who got enough for the first down.
1st and 10
Another run to Hall for a short gain. Wang didn't help Hall much here. Rinehart still in, as is Hangartner.
2nd and 8
Completion to Easley. Thigpen had a lot of time and found a wide open Easley down the field.
1st and 10
Screen play to Hall who had no blockers in front of him and was thrown down for a short completion.
2nd and 9
TOUCHDOWN. Thigpen threw a perfect ball to Huggins back shoulder. Really nice play.
Broncos 24, Bills 10
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Tebow is checking in for the first time. 3rd stringer tonight. Cut back run by Minor for a short gain.
2nd and 6
Screen pass to Minor who picked up the first down easily. Announcers revealed Moats was taken to the locker room with a leg injury.
1st and 10
Short run by Minor who was met immediately by Danny Batten. Good play by Batten who was coming from the far side. Jefferson got in on the tackle as well.
2nd and 7
Tebow had plenty of time here. Incompletion. Deep ball intended for #42. Glover had good coverage on the play.
3rd and 7
Delay of game.
3rd and 13
SACK by Eddins. The pocket collapsed on Tebow. Dotson had a good push here.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bills)
NICE run by Hall who picked up about 14. Huggins did a good job blocking. Wang was really good here.
1st and 10
Incompletion. Deep throw to the right intended for Roosevelt but Naaman didn't have a chance here.
2nd and 10
Hand off to Hall who went left for a pick up of about 6. Levitre was playing center here and did a really good job on his guy.
3rd and 4
Empty backfield. Completion to Kamar Aiken who picked up the first down. Good play. Big collision on the tackle. Aiken is okay, the defender is not.
1st and 10
Incompletion. Thigpen had a lot of time. Thigpen went deep down the middle to Easley who should have probably caught it but got alligator arms at the last second.
2nd and 10
Completion to Easley. Good delivery by Thigpen who hit Easley on a slant for a first down gain.
1st and 10
Wildcat play by Brad Smith who didn't pick up much. Well defended by the Broncos.
2nd and 12
Completion to Roosevelt. Play-action pass to Naaman who picked up 6 or 7. Good catch by Naaman who fell awkwardly and is going to the sideline.
3rd and 4
Incompletion. Quick pass that was well behind Aiken. Thigpen felt the pressure and got rid of it quick. If he held onto it just a bit longer he would've had a better look.
4th and 4
Incompletion. Broken up by Bronco defender #32. Thigpen went left to Aiken in the endzone but #32 read the play perfectly.
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Hand off to RB Johnson who picked up very little. Dotson in on the stop.
2nd and 10
Another run play. Short gain. Looks like Broncos want to get this over.
3rd and 6
Play-action run by Tebow who picked up the first. Tebow slid. Kirlew still hit him.
1st and 10
Run play to Johnson. Pick up of about 5. Kirlew in on the stop.
2nd and 5
Run play that was sniffed out by Glover. Jasper was pushed back on this play.
3rd and 6
Short run gain stopped by Langley and Kirlew.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bills)
Brad Smith in. Running the regular offense, not the wildcat. Short completion to #87 Pianalto.
2nd and 1
Another completion to Huggins who picks up a few. Huggins was shaken up by the tackle. He's being helped off the field.
1st and 10
Smith looked at a few options downfield and then took off. He gained about 20 here. Great scramble by Smith.
1st and 10
Completion to Bruce Hall who picked up the first down.
1st and 10
Completion to Pianalto who was wide open. Nice throw by Smith.
Clocks run out. Broncos win 24-10.
I would like to see Brad Smith lined up more as QB. He looked good albeit against 3rd stringers.
1st and 10
Run play to J White who was thrown to the ground by former Bill Mario Haggan. White hit his head on the turf on the way down. White was on the field for a long time and eventually carted off.
2nd and 11
Thigpen with the 5 step drop and completes one outside to Naaman Roosevelt for a gain of a few.
3rd and 3
Very similar play call except Huggins couldn't bring it in. He should have caught it.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Run to the left by Ball who was taken down by Batten and Corner. Holding call on #85 (offense) though. Decent push by Troup.
1st and 20
Quick throw to the right. Completion to Decker. Corner made the stop.
2nd and 16
Another short pass but broken up by Means. Good play by Means.
3rd and 16
ANOTHER pass break up by Reggie Corner this time, intended for Decker. QB had a lot of time. Poor pass rush.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bills)
Nice run to the right by Bruce Hall. Levitre held his man up here. First down.
1st and 10
Play-action quick throw to Roosevelt for a short completion. Haggan was injured on the play.
2nd and 6
Incompletion. Intended for David Martin who had a guy all over him. Offensive line broke down here.
3rd and 6
Incompletion. Intended for Hall but Thigpen threw it a bit too high.
PUNT (by Reid Forrest)
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Incompletion. Quinn threw it away. Troup had great pressure here. He blew threw the line and would have had Quinn for the sack if he wasn't wearing the club which prevented a grip on Quinn.
2nd and 10
Run play to Minor. Little gain. Troup fought off too defenders here and still made a play. Hicks made initial contact.
3rd and 9
First down completion to WR Decker. Quinn had plenty of time and found Decker. Scott pushed him out of bounds.
1st and 10
Nice run by Minor for another first down. Hicks and Scott in on the tackle. Jasper was stuffed here.
1st and 10
Movement on the line, 5 yard penalty.
1st and 15
Quick pitch to RB Johnson who gained about 7 before being brought down by Aaron Williams. The defensive line looked brutal here. 3rd stringers in.
2nd and 7
TOUCHDOWN to WR Davis from Quinn. Quinn had a ton of time. Davis beat Reggie Corner for the easy touchdown. No safety help.
Denver 24-3
1st and 10
Incompletion. Play-action pass down the middle to Roosevelt who dropped it. Wouldve been a nice gain. Tasker said it was off target. I disagree. Well thrown ball into Zone coverage.
2nd and 10
Screen play to Pianalto who picks up a few yards.
3rd and 5
Completion to Kamar Aiken who picked up the first down. About a gain of 8. Nice throw and catch.
1st and 10
Run to the outside by Elzy. Nice gain. Caussin with the nice block on the outside.
2nd and 1
Another run by Elzy who was met at the line.
3rd and 1
Brad Smith checks in at QB. Run play by Elzy who picks up the first.
1st and 10
Thigpen back in. Thigpen was flushed out right and had a ton of pressure coming his way. He threw it away.
2nd and 10
More pressure coming Thigpen's way but he was able to get it to his hot read (Elzy) for a decent completion. Offensive line looked confused by the blitz.
3rd and 4
Run play by Bruce Hall who got enough for the first down.
1st and 10
Another run to Hall for a short gain. Wang didn't help Hall much here. Rinehart still in, as is Hangartner.
2nd and 8
Completion to Easley. Thigpen had a lot of time and found a wide open Easley down the field.
1st and 10
Screen play to Hall who had no blockers in front of him and was thrown down for a short completion.
2nd and 9
TOUCHDOWN. Thigpen threw a perfect ball to Huggins back shoulder. Really nice play.
Broncos 24, Bills 10
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Tebow is checking in for the first time. 3rd stringer tonight. Cut back run by Minor for a short gain.
2nd and 6
Screen pass to Minor who picked up the first down easily. Announcers revealed Moats was taken to the locker room with a leg injury.
1st and 10
Short run by Minor who was met immediately by Danny Batten. Good play by Batten who was coming from the far side. Jefferson got in on the tackle as well.
2nd and 7
Tebow had plenty of time here. Incompletion. Deep ball intended for #42. Glover had good coverage on the play.
3rd and 7
Delay of game.
3rd and 13
SACK by Eddins. The pocket collapsed on Tebow. Dotson had a good push here.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bills)
NICE run by Hall who picked up about 14. Huggins did a good job blocking. Wang was really good here.
1st and 10
Incompletion. Deep throw to the right intended for Roosevelt but Naaman didn't have a chance here.
2nd and 10
Hand off to Hall who went left for a pick up of about 6. Levitre was playing center here and did a really good job on his guy.
3rd and 4
Empty backfield. Completion to Kamar Aiken who picked up the first down. Good play. Big collision on the tackle. Aiken is okay, the defender is not.
1st and 10
Incompletion. Thigpen had a lot of time. Thigpen went deep down the middle to Easley who should have probably caught it but got alligator arms at the last second.
2nd and 10
Completion to Easley. Good delivery by Thigpen who hit Easley on a slant for a first down gain.
1st and 10
Wildcat play by Brad Smith who didn't pick up much. Well defended by the Broncos.
2nd and 12
Completion to Roosevelt. Play-action pass to Naaman who picked up 6 or 7. Good catch by Naaman who fell awkwardly and is going to the sideline.
3rd and 4
Incompletion. Quick pass that was well behind Aiken. Thigpen felt the pressure and got rid of it quick. If he held onto it just a bit longer he would've had a better look.
4th and 4
Incompletion. Broken up by Bronco defender #32. Thigpen went left to Aiken in the endzone but #32 read the play perfectly.
1st and 10 (Broncos)
Hand off to RB Johnson who picked up very little. Dotson in on the stop.
2nd and 10
Another run play. Short gain. Looks like Broncos want to get this over.
3rd and 6
Play-action run by Tebow who picked up the first. Tebow slid. Kirlew still hit him.
1st and 10
Run play to Johnson. Pick up of about 5. Kirlew in on the stop.
2nd and 5
Run play that was sniffed out by Glover. Jasper was pushed back on this play.
3rd and 6
Short run gain stopped by Langley and Kirlew.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bills)
Brad Smith in. Running the regular offense, not the wildcat. Short completion to #87 Pianalto.
2nd and 1
Another completion to Huggins who picks up a few. Huggins was shaken up by the tackle. He's being helped off the field.
1st and 10
Smith looked at a few options downfield and then took off. He gained about 20 here. Great scramble by Smith.
1st and 10
Completion to Bruce Hall who picked up the first down.
1st and 10
Completion to Pianalto who was wide open. Nice throw by Smith.
Clocks run out. Broncos win 24-10.
I would like to see Brad Smith lined up more as QB. He looked good albeit against 3rd stringers.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Ryan Fitzpatrick on the Steve Czaban Show review
- Steve cracked a few jokes about Ryan being named the 5th smartest athlete and asked if Ryan had any issue with that. Ryan said he'd like the other 4 guys ahead of him to go through the coursework he had to go through at Harvard.
- Also discussed (jokingly) whether Harvard will have any scandals like Miami. Ryan emphatically said no.
- Steve brought up the team cutting Maybin and Evans and questioned if the Bills were Super Bowl contenders.
- Ryan said Buddy Nix is trying to give young guys a chance and he will get rid of guys if he feels like they don't fit with the team.
- Ryan said defensively the team is much more stout. Mentioned Dareus being "a force."
- Steve brought up Stevie Johnson being "a different type of guy" and wanted to know a little bit more about him.
- Ryan said the day he got here was the day he realized the kind of talent Stevie had. Nobody gave him a chance to play up until that point. Chan Gailey saw it in Stevie and Roscoe Parrish and that's what's great about Chan.
- Steve asked if the Harvard thing works against him perception wise, like if he went to Auburn instead would he have gotten more respect coming out of the draft.
- Ryan: "I don't think it matters. Coming out it hurt me a little bit." Then discussed people wondering what his passion was (coming out of Harvard) but said he doesn't think it's a problem now because he's 7 years in his career.
- Steve: What's worst, being a 7th rounder or coming out of a small school?
- Ryan said coming from a small school is the hardest thing to overcome, especially an Ivy league.
- Steve asked ABOUT THE BEARD.
- Fitz said it's never been this long during training camp. Said he will maintain it a bit this season. Will roll with it. Steve and his co-host were obsessed about the beard. They loved it.
- Steve asked about Terrell Owens.
- Ryan said "I thought he was great." Said he was on his best behavior because he had to be. Said he worked hard. He and T.O. had a great relationship.
- Steve said "I believe he lobbied for you at one point during the season."
- Fitz said he did. "Owens is a student of the game." Said he had his preconceived notions prior to Owens coming but was totally surprised by him.
- Steve joked about receivers always saying they're open and Ryan played along.
Monday, August 15, 2011
Shawn Nelson: "I feel good!", Moats on his game against the Bears, Stinchcomb Released
NELSON ALMOST READY
Shawn Nelson missed this past Saturday's contest against the Bears. He's been sidelined with an injury for the past 2 weeks.
I asked him when he will be ready to practice, Nelson said "hopefully soon. I feel good!" I also asked how he's carrying the extra weight, "I feel pretty good bro! I needed it ya kno! I was 240 playing tight end. It's cool." Nelson reported to camp weighing in at 273. Nelson is an imposing figure with the extra weight but the question still remains - can he remain healthy long enough for the team to justify keeping him?
At this point it looks like Scott Chandler and David Martin will make the team as tight ends and Shawn Nelson and Mike Caussin will battle it out for the last spot (if they keep 3, which they did last year). Chandler and Martin are good blocking tight ends. Chandler has emerged as a threat as a pass catching tight end as well.
MOATS ON HIS WAY
I asked Arthur Moats how he felt about his performance on Saturday against the Bears, "did some things good and some not so good. Gettin better though." After breaking out last year as the only guy to really contribute as a rookie for the Bills, his switch to ILB has kept him out of the spotlight as he learns the position.
When asked if he's feeling better about the switch to ILB, Moats said he was "feelin better with it" and will be ready come September 11th against the Chiefs. The Bills feel, because of his size, he's better suited to play the ILB position.
STINCHCOMB RELEASED
The Saints released former Pro Bowl Right Tackle Jon Stinchcomb on Monday, one day after coach Sean Payton said versatile veteran Zach Strief and 2010 second-round draft choice Charles Brown would be competing for the starting job at right tackle. Drew Brees called Stinchcomb “one of the greatest teammates I’ve ever had.”
“He’s a true pro,” Brees said. “He’s everything you want in a teammate, in a football player, in a man, in a leader ... He’s been a mainstay for this team, for this offensive line for a long time, especially during our time here. I’ve had five great years with him. He’ll always be one of my great friends, close friends. I wish him the best and his family. I’m not sure what’s next for him but I’ll always love that man.”
With 3 roster spots still open, should the Bills give him a look? Considering the depth situation, I absolutely think the Bills should bring him in and make sure he's fully recovered from his torn left quad muscle he had surgery on last year. If he is, we could use the help on the line. Pears did well on Saturday but it wouldn't hurt to have some real depth at the tackle position.
NIX COMMENTS ON MAYBIN
I'll have a piece in the next few days about my projected 53 man roster. Lots of interesting scenarios involving key positions...
Shawn Nelson missed this past Saturday's contest against the Bears. He's been sidelined with an injury for the past 2 weeks.
I asked him when he will be ready to practice, Nelson said "hopefully soon. I feel good!" I also asked how he's carrying the extra weight, "I feel pretty good bro! I needed it ya kno! I was 240 playing tight end. It's cool." Nelson reported to camp weighing in at 273. Nelson is an imposing figure with the extra weight but the question still remains - can he remain healthy long enough for the team to justify keeping him?
At this point it looks like Scott Chandler and David Martin will make the team as tight ends and Shawn Nelson and Mike Caussin will battle it out for the last spot (if they keep 3, which they did last year). Chandler and Martin are good blocking tight ends. Chandler has emerged as a threat as a pass catching tight end as well.
MOATS ON HIS WAY
I asked Arthur Moats how he felt about his performance on Saturday against the Bears, "did some things good and some not so good. Gettin better though." After breaking out last year as the only guy to really contribute as a rookie for the Bills, his switch to ILB has kept him out of the spotlight as he learns the position.
When asked if he's feeling better about the switch to ILB, Moats said he was "feelin better with it" and will be ready come September 11th against the Chiefs. The Bills feel, because of his size, he's better suited to play the ILB position.
STINCHCOMB RELEASED
The Saints released former Pro Bowl Right Tackle Jon Stinchcomb on Monday, one day after coach Sean Payton said versatile veteran Zach Strief and 2010 second-round draft choice Charles Brown would be competing for the starting job at right tackle. Drew Brees called Stinchcomb “one of the greatest teammates I’ve ever had.”
“He’s a true pro,” Brees said. “He’s everything you want in a teammate, in a football player, in a man, in a leader ... He’s been a mainstay for this team, for this offensive line for a long time, especially during our time here. I’ve had five great years with him. He’ll always be one of my great friends, close friends. I wish him the best and his family. I’m not sure what’s next for him but I’ll always love that man.”
With 3 roster spots still open, should the Bills give him a look? Considering the depth situation, I absolutely think the Bills should bring him in and make sure he's fully recovered from his torn left quad muscle he had surgery on last year. If he is, we could use the help on the line. Pears did well on Saturday but it wouldn't hurt to have some real depth at the tackle position.
NIX COMMENTS ON MAYBIN
"I saw where somebody said he didn't fit the scheme. I don't know what scheme he fits at that size, unless you're a strong safety. He says his metabolism and maybe that's what it is. He couldn't hold weight."
"We could have used him and gone on through the preseason and that kind of thing and he would have had very little chance of being picked up. This gives him a chance to maybe get on another team, fit in better and things work out good for him."
"I think what happens when you miss on a pick that high, a first or second or even third round, it sets you back because you keep trying to fill that void. That's the reason we took a little longer. We needed him and wanted him to come through and wanted to make sure we gave him every opportunity. He did everything he could do. He practiced hard, he hustled and he did everything we asked of him. It just didn't work out."
I'll have a piece in the next few days about my projected 53 man roster. Lots of interesting scenarios involving key positions...
Aaron Maybin Released
Aaron Maybin was waived by the Bills today. They didn't even bother waiting until the first cut down day, August 30th. Instead, they cut ties with a guy who they've given every opportunity to play. The same guy who couldn't get any significant time on last year's putrid defense.
No doubt Maybin will be viewed as one of the biggest busts in Bills history because of his inability to even get on the field. He reported to camp at 228 pounds, his lightest weight to date. Buddy Nix made a conscious effort to make the Bills a bigger team on D and instead of prolonging the obvious, the Bills decided to cut their losses with Maybin today. He will count as 9 million against the cap. His rookie contract guaranteed him 15 million dollars. 15 million dollars.
This is a move that probably should have been done even sooner (just to further illustrate how bad Maybin is). Slowly but surely the Bills are shaping the team to Nix's vision. Whether that translates to a winner on the field is yet to be determined but guys like John McCargo and Aaron Maybin will not be missed by Bills fans. Somehow this team feels better already without Maybin on the roster.
In an unrelated bit, Ashton Youboty was signed by the Bucs today.
No doubt Maybin will be viewed as one of the biggest busts in Bills history because of his inability to even get on the field. He reported to camp at 228 pounds, his lightest weight to date. Buddy Nix made a conscious effort to make the Bills a bigger team on D and instead of prolonging the obvious, the Bills decided to cut their losses with Maybin today. He will count as 9 million against the cap. His rookie contract guaranteed him 15 million dollars. 15 million dollars.
This is a move that probably should have been done even sooner (just to further illustrate how bad Maybin is). Slowly but surely the Bills are shaping the team to Nix's vision. Whether that translates to a winner on the field is yet to be determined but guys like John McCargo and Aaron Maybin will not be missed by Bills fans. Somehow this team feels better already without Maybin on the roster.
In an unrelated bit, Ashton Youboty was signed by the Bucs today.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Complete 1st half review of Bills v. Bears
Here we go:
1st and 10 (Bills)
Fred Jackson run for 5 yards.
2nd and 5
Incomplete pass to Scott Chandler. Maybe a bit overthrown but it hit Chandler in the hands. Pretty quick release by Fitz.
3rd and 5
Completion to Stevie Johnson on a slant route. Good first down.
1st and 10
CJ Spiller was met right at the line on a run play. Urbik did not hold up his man at all.
2nd and 13
Play-action quick screen to Stevie Johnson who made some moves but got only a few yards.
3rd and 11
Incomplete pass. Naaman and David Nelson were in the area. Looked like a miscommunication. Nelson was apparently the intended target. Pears held his man up here nicely.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bears)
The Bears start with a reverse to Hester that goes for a few yards. Terrence McGee pushes him out.
2nd and 8
Dareus broke through the line and was coming at Cutler fast but Cutler underhanded it to his RB only to be stopped by Andra Davis.
3rd and 8
Barnett came in on a blitz but Kelsay went too far outside which opened up a running lane for Cutler who ran for a first down.
1st and 10
Chester Taylor runs for very little. Dwan Edwards was in on the stop. Kelsay got in on the tackle as well. I noticed Merriman getting nasty here at the end of the play.
2nd and 9
McGee came in on a CB blitz from the right but the run play went to the left for a few yards. Kyle Williams was in on the stop.
3rd and 6
Dareus with the sack. Flag on the play. Holding on Chicago by #73. #73 held Merriman who would have likely gotten the sack. Merriman may have still touched Cutler first here but Dareus was the one who really made contact with Cutler. Either way, that's what Bills fans want to see.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bills)
Fred Jackson stiff arms Charles Tillman and runs left for a nice first down. The line looked good here.
1st and 10
Jackson tries the middle here but only gains a few.
2nd and 8
Beautiful cut by CJ Spiller who also threw in a spin move for a decent gain.
3rd and 2
Brad Smith wildcat time. Just enough to pick up the first down.
1st and 10
Quick slant to Stevie Johnson that was a bit behind Stevie but still caught for a few yards. After another review, the announcer said the pass was tipped which is why it was behind Stevie.
2nd and 5
Nice completion to CJ Spiller who ran a circle route for a first down. Smooth looking play. Chandler was also wide open here.
1st and 10
Incompletion to Donald Jones. Pass interference by Jones as well. Fitz and Jones weren't on the same page here.
1st and 20
Nice completion of about 8 yards to Chandler who got rocked near the end of the play.
2nd and 12
Fitz went to Chandler again with a pass to the outside for a gain of a few yards.
3rd and 7
Screen play to CJ Spiller who comes up just short of the first down. Levitre, who was ahead of Spiller, completely whiffed on a block that could have led to something bigger. Urbik wasn't good here either.
Lindell boots a 44 yarder through for 3 points.
Johnny Knox had a big kickoff return. Aaron Maybin looked bad here. Aaron Williams somehow caught Knox for the stop.
1st and 10
Chicago put their backup QB in already. Running play that was stopped by Andra Davis.
2nd and 11
Merriman gets the SACK and then proceeds to do the LIGHTS OUT dance. Kelsay blew by his guy but went too wide.
3rd and 13
Merriman gets another SACK. He brought Hanie down hard. Merriman is pacing back and forth on the sideline looking like a maniac.
Bears punt..
1st and 10 (Bills)
Thigpen rolls out right and hits Johnny White for a gain of a few.
2nd and 6
J White run play for about 3.
3rd and 1
Brad Smith is in. Smith with the play-action and runs wide, gains just enough for a first down. Good stiff arm by Smith near the end of the play.
1st and 10
Thigpen incompletion to Chandler. Thigpen had enough time but threw off his back foot as he felt the pocket collapsing.
2nd and 10
J White was met in the backfield by 2 Bears linebackers. Wrotto was blown up here.
3rd and 13
Thigpen incompletion. Thigpen had time here. He threw it too high for Brad Smith, who was beyond the first down marker.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bears)
Barber with a gain of 10+ yards on the ground. Barnett brought him down. Byrd also in on it. McKelvin missed on a tackle attempt.
1st and 10
No gain by Barber. Kyle Williams brought him down. Williams had good penetration here. Batten was also right there.
2nd and 10
Barber gashes the defense with a draw play. Byrd eventually brought him down. Reggie Torbor had the best chance but couldn't get close to Barber. He was dumped.
1st and 10
3 stop drop, quick slant pass to Knox. McKelvin brought him down. Dareus blew up his guy here and had a chance but the ball was released too quickly.
1st and 10
Late substitution by the Bills. Andra Davis was the late man on. Barber with a short gain. Stopped by the late addition, Davis.
2nd and 8
Big run by Barber. This was the play Barber ran Florence over. Florence with a weak tackling effort here. Torbor didn't look good on this play. Moats lined up with his hand on the ground and was forced inside by the lineman he was facing.
1st and Goal
Haine incomplete to his tight end. Play-action roll out. The TE dropped it. Wilson was covering him.
2nd and Goal
Short gain by Barber. Spencer Johnson made the initial contact and Antonio Coleman finished him off.
3rd and Goal
Haine scrambles for the TD. Torbor had his back turned to the play and was guilty of all sorts of holding here. Not Torbor's best outing.
1st and 10 (Bills)
Short run by J White. David Martin could have been called for holding here. Hangartner also ended up flat on his back before White even got to him.
2nd and 10
Brad Smith in. Incompletion. He under threw it to Easley who had to slide to even get close to catching it.
3rd and 10
5 wide. Thigpen was forced out of the pocket and scrambled for a first down. Ground caused a fumble so Bills keep the Ball. Generous spot.
1st and 10
B Smith back in. NICE run of about 14 yards to the left. No hesitation here. David Martin helped with a good block here. Buster Davis also controlled his guy.
1st and 10
J White with the short gain.
2nd and 8
Quick play-action pass that was an incompletion. Craig Davis was the target but the ball was thrown behind him. That's on Thigpen.
3rd and 8
Thigpen completion to Roosevelt. Thigpen had plenty of time. Could have dumped it off to J White but decided to throw it in a crowd. Good catch by Naaman. Thigpen almost threw this one on his back foot again.
1st and 10
J White with a nice carry of about 6 yards.
2nd and 4
Run of about 4 yards negated by a holding call on Cordaro Howard.
2nd and 14
Thigpen scramble that went nowhere. Wang was useless here. Thigpen just got back to the line of scrimmage.
3rd and 14
Another scramble by Thigpen who was forced outside. Didn't have any time to throw it. Nice athleticism to escape the initial pressure.
PUNT
1st and 10
Barber rush for about 7 yards. Aaron Williams brought him down. Bryan Scott completely whiffed on an attempt to get Barber at the line of scrimmage. Maybin was pretty clumsy looking here.
2nd and 3
Reggie Corner blitzed off the edge but they completed a quick pass to Earl Bennett for the first down. Corto forced him out.
1st and 10
Empty backfield. Incompletion to Desmond Clark. Ball was tipped by Spencer Johnson which led to an errant throw.
2nd and 10
SACK by Spencer Johnson.
3rd and 15
Incompletion. Maybin got tossed on his ass by Barber here. This was embarrassing. Coleman came in late with pressure forcing Haine to throw it out of bounds.
PUNT
1st and 10
5 wide. Incompletion. Thigpen threw it too high once again. Intended target was Craig Davis.
2nd and 10
5 wide again. Incompletion. Almost picked off. Bad throw. Intended target was Huggins.
3rd and 10
5 wide. SACK by Okoye. Wrotto was awful here, completely whiffed.
PUNT
1st and 10
Complete to Clark for a gain of 10. Maybin was VERY close to getting a sack here.
1st and 10
3 man rush. Deep throw. Incompletion. White laid out Bennett when the Ball was in the air.
Penalty on the Bills. Defensive holding on Spencer Johnson.
1st and 10
Haine goes deep again. Incompletion. Bryan Scott was on the coverage but the ball was nowhere near the intended target.
Field Goal attempt that missed.
1st and 10 (Bills)
Kneel down by Thigpen to run down the rest of the clock.
End of first half. Bears 7 Bills 3
1st and 10 (Bills)
Fred Jackson run for 5 yards.
2nd and 5
Incomplete pass to Scott Chandler. Maybe a bit overthrown but it hit Chandler in the hands. Pretty quick release by Fitz.
3rd and 5
Completion to Stevie Johnson on a slant route. Good first down.
1st and 10
CJ Spiller was met right at the line on a run play. Urbik did not hold up his man at all.
2nd and 13
Play-action quick screen to Stevie Johnson who made some moves but got only a few yards.
3rd and 11
Incomplete pass. Naaman and David Nelson were in the area. Looked like a miscommunication. Nelson was apparently the intended target. Pears held his man up here nicely.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bears)
The Bears start with a reverse to Hester that goes for a few yards. Terrence McGee pushes him out.
2nd and 8
Dareus broke through the line and was coming at Cutler fast but Cutler underhanded it to his RB only to be stopped by Andra Davis.
3rd and 8
Barnett came in on a blitz but Kelsay went too far outside which opened up a running lane for Cutler who ran for a first down.
1st and 10
Chester Taylor runs for very little. Dwan Edwards was in on the stop. Kelsay got in on the tackle as well. I noticed Merriman getting nasty here at the end of the play.
2nd and 9
McGee came in on a CB blitz from the right but the run play went to the left for a few yards. Kyle Williams was in on the stop.
3rd and 6
Dareus with the sack. Flag on the play. Holding on Chicago by #73. #73 held Merriman who would have likely gotten the sack. Merriman may have still touched Cutler first here but Dareus was the one who really made contact with Cutler. Either way, that's what Bills fans want to see.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bills)
Fred Jackson stiff arms Charles Tillman and runs left for a nice first down. The line looked good here.
1st and 10
Jackson tries the middle here but only gains a few.
2nd and 8
Beautiful cut by CJ Spiller who also threw in a spin move for a decent gain.
3rd and 2
Brad Smith wildcat time. Just enough to pick up the first down.
1st and 10
Quick slant to Stevie Johnson that was a bit behind Stevie but still caught for a few yards. After another review, the announcer said the pass was tipped which is why it was behind Stevie.
2nd and 5
Nice completion to CJ Spiller who ran a circle route for a first down. Smooth looking play. Chandler was also wide open here.
1st and 10
Incompletion to Donald Jones. Pass interference by Jones as well. Fitz and Jones weren't on the same page here.
1st and 20
Nice completion of about 8 yards to Chandler who got rocked near the end of the play.
2nd and 12
Fitz went to Chandler again with a pass to the outside for a gain of a few yards.
3rd and 7
Screen play to CJ Spiller who comes up just short of the first down. Levitre, who was ahead of Spiller, completely whiffed on a block that could have led to something bigger. Urbik wasn't good here either.
Lindell boots a 44 yarder through for 3 points.
Johnny Knox had a big kickoff return. Aaron Maybin looked bad here. Aaron Williams somehow caught Knox for the stop.
1st and 10
Chicago put their backup QB in already. Running play that was stopped by Andra Davis.
2nd and 11
Merriman gets the SACK and then proceeds to do the LIGHTS OUT dance. Kelsay blew by his guy but went too wide.
3rd and 13
Merriman gets another SACK. He brought Hanie down hard. Merriman is pacing back and forth on the sideline looking like a maniac.
Bears punt..
1st and 10 (Bills)
Thigpen rolls out right and hits Johnny White for a gain of a few.
2nd and 6
J White run play for about 3.
3rd and 1
Brad Smith is in. Smith with the play-action and runs wide, gains just enough for a first down. Good stiff arm by Smith near the end of the play.
1st and 10
Thigpen incompletion to Chandler. Thigpen had enough time but threw off his back foot as he felt the pocket collapsing.
2nd and 10
J White was met in the backfield by 2 Bears linebackers. Wrotto was blown up here.
3rd and 13
Thigpen incompletion. Thigpen had time here. He threw it too high for Brad Smith, who was beyond the first down marker.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bears)
Barber with a gain of 10+ yards on the ground. Barnett brought him down. Byrd also in on it. McKelvin missed on a tackle attempt.
1st and 10
No gain by Barber. Kyle Williams brought him down. Williams had good penetration here. Batten was also right there.
2nd and 10
Barber gashes the defense with a draw play. Byrd eventually brought him down. Reggie Torbor had the best chance but couldn't get close to Barber. He was dumped.
1st and 10
3 stop drop, quick slant pass to Knox. McKelvin brought him down. Dareus blew up his guy here and had a chance but the ball was released too quickly.
1st and 10
Late substitution by the Bills. Andra Davis was the late man on. Barber with a short gain. Stopped by the late addition, Davis.
2nd and 8
Big run by Barber. This was the play Barber ran Florence over. Florence with a weak tackling effort here. Torbor didn't look good on this play. Moats lined up with his hand on the ground and was forced inside by the lineman he was facing.
1st and Goal
Haine incomplete to his tight end. Play-action roll out. The TE dropped it. Wilson was covering him.
2nd and Goal
Short gain by Barber. Spencer Johnson made the initial contact and Antonio Coleman finished him off.
3rd and Goal
Haine scrambles for the TD. Torbor had his back turned to the play and was guilty of all sorts of holding here. Not Torbor's best outing.
1st and 10 (Bills)
Short run by J White. David Martin could have been called for holding here. Hangartner also ended up flat on his back before White even got to him.
2nd and 10
Brad Smith in. Incompletion. He under threw it to Easley who had to slide to even get close to catching it.
3rd and 10
5 wide. Thigpen was forced out of the pocket and scrambled for a first down. Ground caused a fumble so Bills keep the Ball. Generous spot.
1st and 10
B Smith back in. NICE run of about 14 yards to the left. No hesitation here. David Martin helped with a good block here. Buster Davis also controlled his guy.
1st and 10
J White with the short gain.
2nd and 8
Quick play-action pass that was an incompletion. Craig Davis was the target but the ball was thrown behind him. That's on Thigpen.
3rd and 8
Thigpen completion to Roosevelt. Thigpen had plenty of time. Could have dumped it off to J White but decided to throw it in a crowd. Good catch by Naaman. Thigpen almost threw this one on his back foot again.
1st and 10
J White with a nice carry of about 6 yards.
2nd and 4
Run of about 4 yards negated by a holding call on Cordaro Howard.
2nd and 14
Thigpen scramble that went nowhere. Wang was useless here. Thigpen just got back to the line of scrimmage.
3rd and 14
Another scramble by Thigpen who was forced outside. Didn't have any time to throw it. Nice athleticism to escape the initial pressure.
PUNT
1st and 10
Barber rush for about 7 yards. Aaron Williams brought him down. Bryan Scott completely whiffed on an attempt to get Barber at the line of scrimmage. Maybin was pretty clumsy looking here.
2nd and 3
Reggie Corner blitzed off the edge but they completed a quick pass to Earl Bennett for the first down. Corto forced him out.
1st and 10
Empty backfield. Incompletion to Desmond Clark. Ball was tipped by Spencer Johnson which led to an errant throw.
2nd and 10
SACK by Spencer Johnson.
3rd and 15
Incompletion. Maybin got tossed on his ass by Barber here. This was embarrassing. Coleman came in late with pressure forcing Haine to throw it out of bounds.
PUNT
1st and 10
5 wide. Incompletion. Thigpen threw it too high once again. Intended target was Craig Davis.
2nd and 10
5 wide again. Incompletion. Almost picked off. Bad throw. Intended target was Huggins.
3rd and 10
5 wide. SACK by Okoye. Wrotto was awful here, completely whiffed.
PUNT
1st and 10
Complete to Clark for a gain of 10. Maybin was VERY close to getting a sack here.
1st and 10
3 man rush. Deep throw. Incompletion. White laid out Bennett when the Ball was in the air.
Penalty on the Bills. Defensive holding on Spencer Johnson.
1st and 10
Haine goes deep again. Incompletion. Bryan Scott was on the coverage but the ball was nowhere near the intended target.
Field Goal attempt that missed.
1st and 10 (Bills)
Kneel down by Thigpen to run down the rest of the clock.
End of first half. Bears 7 Bills 3
Complete 2nd half review of Bills v. Bears - Scrub Time!
Here we go:
1st and 10 (Bears)
Really short run play. Pocket collapsed. Carrington, Troup, C White and Moats in on the stop.
White came up limping but seems alright.
2nd and 8
Big run by RB Bell. Troup was pushed to his left which opened up the hole. Antonio Coleman had a good chance at the stop but missed.
1st and 10
Another run play for a few yards. Kellen Heard brought Bell down.
2nd and 5
SACK by Danny Batten who had great pursuit here, pushing Bell back on his way to the sack.
3rd and 16
Really good screen play to Bell. Big first down pick up. The defense over-pursued this one. Maybin, Spencer Johnson and Batten were the guilty parties. Bryan Scott also missed a tackle in the open field.
1st and 10
Short run gain. Corto blitzed and had really good pursuit but just missed the target. Kellen Heard brought him down.
2nd and 10
Short run gain. Searcy had a weak tackling effort here. Moats finished off the tackle.
3rd and 7
First down pick up the Bears. Completion to WR Adams. Loyce Means in on the tackle. We blitzed with Reggie Corner and a LB but our rush wasn't much of a rush.
1st and 10
Torell Troup batted down a pass with his GOOD hand.
2nd and 10
Draw play to RB Bell for a few yards that was nullified by a holding call.
2nd and 20
Alex Carrington batted this pass attempt down. Kellen Heard was on his way to smashing their QB. Carrington got a real good push here.
3rd and 20
Right on cue as the announcers have been raving about Carrington the last few plays and he gets a sack here. Antonio Coleman had a good push here before getting pushed back himself.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bills)
Levi Brown time. J White runs for a short gain.
2nd and 7
Play-action pass to Hubbard who couldn't hang onto the pass. To his defense, he got cracked as soon as the ball touched his hands.
3rd and 7
Levi throws a nice completion to Roosevelt who gets just enough for the first down
1st and 10
Short run by White. Isaiah Thompson was brutalized here. Awful
2nd and 10
3 step drop, quick pass to Huggins who dropped it.
3rd and 10
Empty backfield. Outside screen to J White who picks up about 6 yards.
PUNT by Reid Forrest. Flag on play. Running into the kicker. First down Bills
1st and 10
J White run play. White was met in the backfield. Unbelievably bad run blocking by 64, 68, 62, 74.
2nd and 13
Another short run by J White. The Bears got a really quick jump on the play.
3rd and 10
Brown tried gunning this into a crowd of 3 cornerbacks to Roosevelt. He actually had some time here. Incomplete.
PUNT (Good distance by Forrest)
1st and 10 (Bears)
Decent run stopped by Spencer Johnson
2nd and 5
Another run play right up the gut by Bell for the first down.
1st and 10
Play-action bomb to WR #84. Aaron Williams was beat on this play. NO pressure from the D.
1st and 10
Play-action again. Batten brought pressure but was too late. Deep ball that was an incompletion because Aaron Williams interfered with the receiver and was called for it.
1st and 10
Batten trips up the QB for his 2nd sack of the night. Maybin went WAY wide and wasn't even close to relevant on this play.
2nd and 10
Quick slant stopped by Aaron Williams and Batten.
3rd and 5
INTERCEPTION by Aaron Williams, the guy they tried picking on this entire series. Ball was initially tipped and Williams made a great athletic play to get it.
1st and 10 (Bills)
Nesbitt in. Really nice run for the first down and more. Flag on play. "There is no foul for illegal block in back." Yardage stands. Really good run
1st and 10
Nesbitt takes off again and throws in a spin move for a gain of 4 or 5.
END OF THIRD QUARTER
2nd and 5
Levi back in. Incomplete pass. Big time pressure from the D. Levi never had a chance.
3rd and 5
Nesbitt back in. A nice spin move at the very end of this run made it close but no first down. Questionable spot.
PUNT (GREAT kick by Forrest)
1st and 10 (Bears)
Short run by Bell who was brought down by a bunch of guys.
2nd and 7
BIG run by Bell through a gaping hole. Finally brought down by R Coleman (#40)
1st and 10
Dump off to Bell who ran for another big gain. Tackle by R Coleman again. Dotson straight up fell down here. Looked bad.
1st and 10
Short gain. Heard and Jasper were in on the stop.
2nd and 11
NO pressure. Completion to WR Adams for a first down. Means on the stop.
1st and 10
Short run that shouldve been a loss for yards but #45 Kirlew flat out whiffed on the tackle.
2nd and 7
Short run stopped by a group of guys. 41 was in on the stop. Jasper had a chance for the tackle but missed.
3rd and 3
Short run. #44 missed on an easy tackle. Eddins and Jefferson in on the stop.
4th and 1
Short gain but enough for the first. Tackled by a host of Bills. #46 Miller made first contact.
1st and 10
Short completion. Too much time/No pressure. Hicks made the tackle.
2nd and 9
Flag. Offsides.
2nd and 14
Short run stopped by Eddins. Dotson did well holding up a double team.
3rd and 12
SACK by #49 Jefferson.
Field Goal kick by the Bears.
1st and 10 (Bills)
Play-action that didn't fool anyone. Levi was immediately hit but got the ball off for an incompletion.
2nd and 10
Another play-action pass. Too much pressure again. Incompletion.
3rd and 10
INTERCEPTION. Levi threw into traffic again. Roosevelt was the intended target. Watkins got schooled on the right side.
1st and 10 (Bears)
Short run. Colin Brown got a good jump on the play. #49 Brad Jefferson in on the stop.
2nd and 6
Another decent run. Stopped by #49 Brad Jefferson again
3rd and 1
Easy first down run by Unga brought down by Kirlew. Jasper was pretty much thrown down on this play. The run went to the other side so it didn't matter as much.
1st and 10
Short run stopped by Heard.
2nd and 8
Another good run by Unga who pushed the pile for 5 yards. Langley and Aaron Williams in on the stop.
1st and goal
Short run by Unga who got popped by Eddins. Eddins was hurt all week, I'm impressed that he's played this long.
2nd and goal
Short run by Unga again. Heard in on the stop. Jasper couldn't get any push here. He was stood up at the line of scrimmage.
3rd and goal
Heard BLEW up his guy and got the 9th sack of the night for the Bills. #62 from the Bears was the victim of abuse on this play.
Gould missed the field goal attempt.
1st and 10 (Bills)
Quick underneath slant to Paul Hubbard
2nd and 5
Another short completion to Huggins
3rd and 1
Quick completion to Roosevelt for the first down
1st and 10
Another slant to Hubbard. Same exact play as the play that started this drive.
2nd and 7
Another duplicate play here, this time incomplete to Naaman Roosevelt
3rd and 7
Big completion over the middle to Huggins. About 20 yards but time is ticking down...
Game over. Bears 10 Bills 3
1st and 10 (Bears)
Really short run play. Pocket collapsed. Carrington, Troup, C White and Moats in on the stop.
White came up limping but seems alright.
2nd and 8
Big run by RB Bell. Troup was pushed to his left which opened up the hole. Antonio Coleman had a good chance at the stop but missed.
1st and 10
Another run play for a few yards. Kellen Heard brought Bell down.
2nd and 5
SACK by Danny Batten who had great pursuit here, pushing Bell back on his way to the sack.
3rd and 16
Really good screen play to Bell. Big first down pick up. The defense over-pursued this one. Maybin, Spencer Johnson and Batten were the guilty parties. Bryan Scott also missed a tackle in the open field.
1st and 10
Short run gain. Corto blitzed and had really good pursuit but just missed the target. Kellen Heard brought him down.
2nd and 10
Short run gain. Searcy had a weak tackling effort here. Moats finished off the tackle.
3rd and 7
First down pick up the Bears. Completion to WR Adams. Loyce Means in on the tackle. We blitzed with Reggie Corner and a LB but our rush wasn't much of a rush.
1st and 10
Torell Troup batted down a pass with his GOOD hand.
2nd and 10
Draw play to RB Bell for a few yards that was nullified by a holding call.
2nd and 20
Alex Carrington batted this pass attempt down. Kellen Heard was on his way to smashing their QB. Carrington got a real good push here.
3rd and 20
Right on cue as the announcers have been raving about Carrington the last few plays and he gets a sack here. Antonio Coleman had a good push here before getting pushed back himself.
PUNT
1st and 10 (Bills)
Levi Brown time. J White runs for a short gain.
2nd and 7
Play-action pass to Hubbard who couldn't hang onto the pass. To his defense, he got cracked as soon as the ball touched his hands.
3rd and 7
Levi throws a nice completion to Roosevelt who gets just enough for the first down
1st and 10
Short run by White. Isaiah Thompson was brutalized here. Awful
2nd and 10
3 step drop, quick pass to Huggins who dropped it.
3rd and 10
Empty backfield. Outside screen to J White who picks up about 6 yards.
PUNT by Reid Forrest. Flag on play. Running into the kicker. First down Bills
1st and 10
J White run play. White was met in the backfield. Unbelievably bad run blocking by 64, 68, 62, 74.
2nd and 13
Another short run by J White. The Bears got a really quick jump on the play.
3rd and 10
Brown tried gunning this into a crowd of 3 cornerbacks to Roosevelt. He actually had some time here. Incomplete.
PUNT (Good distance by Forrest)
1st and 10 (Bears)
Decent run stopped by Spencer Johnson
2nd and 5
Another run play right up the gut by Bell for the first down.
1st and 10
Play-action bomb to WR #84. Aaron Williams was beat on this play. NO pressure from the D.
1st and 10
Play-action again. Batten brought pressure but was too late. Deep ball that was an incompletion because Aaron Williams interfered with the receiver and was called for it.
1st and 10
Batten trips up the QB for his 2nd sack of the night. Maybin went WAY wide and wasn't even close to relevant on this play.
2nd and 10
Quick slant stopped by Aaron Williams and Batten.
3rd and 5
INTERCEPTION by Aaron Williams, the guy they tried picking on this entire series. Ball was initially tipped and Williams made a great athletic play to get it.
1st and 10 (Bills)
Nesbitt in. Really nice run for the first down and more. Flag on play. "There is no foul for illegal block in back." Yardage stands. Really good run
1st and 10
Nesbitt takes off again and throws in a spin move for a gain of 4 or 5.
END OF THIRD QUARTER
2nd and 5
Levi back in. Incomplete pass. Big time pressure from the D. Levi never had a chance.
3rd and 5
Nesbitt back in. A nice spin move at the very end of this run made it close but no first down. Questionable spot.
PUNT (GREAT kick by Forrest)
1st and 10 (Bears)
Short run by Bell who was brought down by a bunch of guys.
2nd and 7
BIG run by Bell through a gaping hole. Finally brought down by R Coleman (#40)
1st and 10
Dump off to Bell who ran for another big gain. Tackle by R Coleman again. Dotson straight up fell down here. Looked bad.
1st and 10
Short gain. Heard and Jasper were in on the stop.
2nd and 11
NO pressure. Completion to WR Adams for a first down. Means on the stop.
1st and 10
Short run that shouldve been a loss for yards but #45 Kirlew flat out whiffed on the tackle.
2nd and 7
Short run stopped by a group of guys. 41 was in on the stop. Jasper had a chance for the tackle but missed.
3rd and 3
Short run. #44 missed on an easy tackle. Eddins and Jefferson in on the stop.
4th and 1
Short gain but enough for the first. Tackled by a host of Bills. #46 Miller made first contact.
1st and 10
Short completion. Too much time/No pressure. Hicks made the tackle.
2nd and 9
Flag. Offsides.
2nd and 14
Short run stopped by Eddins. Dotson did well holding up a double team.
3rd and 12
SACK by #49 Jefferson.
Field Goal kick by the Bears.
1st and 10 (Bills)
Play-action that didn't fool anyone. Levi was immediately hit but got the ball off for an incompletion.
2nd and 10
Another play-action pass. Too much pressure again. Incompletion.
3rd and 10
INTERCEPTION. Levi threw into traffic again. Roosevelt was the intended target. Watkins got schooled on the right side.
1st and 10 (Bears)
Short run. Colin Brown got a good jump on the play. #49 Brad Jefferson in on the stop.
2nd and 6
Another decent run. Stopped by #49 Brad Jefferson again
3rd and 1
Easy first down run by Unga brought down by Kirlew. Jasper was pretty much thrown down on this play. The run went to the other side so it didn't matter as much.
1st and 10
Short run stopped by Heard.
2nd and 8
Another good run by Unga who pushed the pile for 5 yards. Langley and Aaron Williams in on the stop.
1st and goal
Short run by Unga who got popped by Eddins. Eddins was hurt all week, I'm impressed that he's played this long.
2nd and goal
Short run by Unga again. Heard in on the stop. Jasper couldn't get any push here. He was stood up at the line of scrimmage.
3rd and goal
Heard BLEW up his guy and got the 9th sack of the night for the Bills. #62 from the Bears was the victim of abuse on this play.
Gould missed the field goal attempt.
1st and 10 (Bills)
Quick underneath slant to Paul Hubbard
2nd and 5
Another short completion to Huggins
3rd and 1
Quick completion to Roosevelt for the first down
1st and 10
Another slant to Hubbard. Same exact play as the play that started this drive.
2nd and 7
Another duplicate play here, this time incomplete to Naaman Roosevelt
3rd and 7
Big completion over the middle to Huggins. About 20 yards but time is ticking down...
Game over. Bears 10 Bills 3
Andra Davis Steps Up
After the acquisitions of Shawne Merriman, Nick Barnett, and Marcell Dareus it's easy to forget about the Bills signing of Andra Davis a year ago. Davis is a forgotten man mostly because an injury (that he tried playing through) kept him out of the second half of the season last year. Some fans even speculated if he would make the team this year. But the coaching staff knew all along - Davis is a key member of this defense at a position that appeared to be the team's weakness before the emergence of Merriman and signing of Barnett.
When the Bills signed him as a free agent, expectations weren't too high because the Denver Broncos released him after one season with the team where he had 90 tackles and 3.5 sacks. Not bad, right? Apparently not good enough for the Broncos who originally signed him to a 2 year deal. This move was seen as a surprise to many in the media because of his productive season with the Broncos.
He was well on his way to equaling those numbers last year with 40 tackles, a forced fumble and an interception before his injury forced him to IR.
Yesterday will likely be remembered as the Shawne Merriman show but Andra Davis put in a solid performance as well. If Davis can stay healthy (a key theme with this team, right?) he could be a productive Linebacker much like his days with the Browns, where he spent 7 years. In 2005 he racked up 149 tackles. In 2006 he had 104 tackles.
When the Bills signed him as a free agent, expectations weren't too high because the Denver Broncos released him after one season with the team where he had 90 tackles and 3.5 sacks. Not bad, right? Apparently not good enough for the Broncos who originally signed him to a 2 year deal. This move was seen as a surprise to many in the media because of his productive season with the Broncos.
He was well on his way to equaling those numbers last year with 40 tackles, a forced fumble and an interception before his injury forced him to IR.
Yesterday will likely be remembered as the Shawne Merriman show but Andra Davis put in a solid performance as well. If Davis can stay healthy (a key theme with this team, right?) he could be a productive Linebacker much like his days with the Browns, where he spent 7 years. In 2005 he racked up 149 tackles. In 2006 he had 104 tackles.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Buffalo Bills Trade Lee Evans
Lee Evans, 30, was traded yesterday to the Baltimore Ravens for a 4th round pick in the 2012 draft. Evans was one of the veterans on this young Bills team. Initially the reaction was not good for the Bills. Drayton Florence tweeted the following:
The second tweet seems to imply he would have signed elsewhere had he known we were giving away important parts of the team. And then Drayton retweeted the following comment from a fan:
Surprisingly quiet was the most vocal guy on the team, Stevie Johnson. Johnson and George Wilson had shown some support for Evans when the rumors began. Johnson outwardly questioned the possibility of the move, calling Evans a team leader. I find it suspicious that he didn't have anything to say about it yesterday.
Stevie's first tweet on the matter was:
Here's a list of past Bills 4th round picks:
2011: Chris Hairston (RT)
2011: Da'Norris Seacy (S)
2010: Marcus Easley (WR)
2009: Shawn Nelson (TE)
2008: Reggie Corner (CB)
2008: Derek Fine (TE - No longer on team)
2007: Dwayne Right (RB - No longer on team)
2006: Ko Simpson (S - No longer on team and clearly not worth millions)
2005: Duke Preston (C - No longer on team)
2004: Tim Euhus (TE - No longer on team)
Finding a good player in the 4th round isn't easy. The jury is still out on Easley (who they have high hopes for), Searcy (who they hope will become a starter in the secondary very soon) and Hairston (more of a project RT). Shawn Nelson has been riddled with injuries and can't stay on the field. The word potential has been used with him and Easley a lot lately but the fact is, with some of the tight ends they've brought into camp who have performed well, Nelson may have a hard time making the team. Reggie Corner has had a pretty good training camp so far so it's not out of realm of possibility that he makes the team but up until this point, his career as a Bill has been forgettable.
According to the team, they wanted a 3rd round pick but ultimately settled with a 4th rounder from Baltimore which will likely end up being a late 4th round pick because of how good the Ravens are. There were rumors floating around that the Bills wanted a player included in the deal.
Evans is coming off his worst season with the Bills - 37 receptions for 578 yards and 4 Touchdowns. Numbers that can easily be replaced. Roscoe Parrish was well on his way to crushing those numbers before an injury curtailed his season. But the numbers aren't the issue for Bills fans. Most believed he freed up Stevie Johnson on the other side, who had a really good year eclipsing 1,000 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns.
In 2010 when Terrell Owens signed with the Bills, most believed that Lee Evans would have a breakout year opposite of Owens. He only had 44 receptions for 612 yards and 7 touchdowns.
Lee has only eclipsed 1,000 yards receiving twice in his career, in 2006 and 2008.
Lee finally gets to answer the question - with a reliable quarterback, can he be that explosive receiver he resembled in 2006 and 2008? He'll be opposite of Anquan Boldin with Joe Flacco as his quarterback in Baltimore. Many believe he's been the victim of not having a good quarterback and the constant switching of coaches, offensive coordinators and general managers throughout his tenure in Buffalo.
Ultimately I believe it was a numbers game in Buffalo. Buddy Nix and Chan Gailey want their young guys in this year. Donald Jones, who the coaching staff absolutely loves, will likely benefit the most. Roscoe Parrish, who was having the best season of his career prior to injuring himself will also get a ton of time on the field. David Nelson, who Darryl Talley said "has all the tools needed 2 emerge as a team leader & make the Pro Bowl within the next 2 years." Nelson is a guy who came on big last year as one of Fitzpatrick's go to guys. They have high hopes for Nelson.
And then you have interesting guys like Naaman Roosevelt, who has caught everything in camp and made a good case for himself to remain on the team, Marcus Easley, who is a big receiver with plenty of speed that they drafted last year with big expectations, and Craig "Buster" Davis, a guy they've given a good, long hard look at this past week in camp. Davis is a former first round pick with the Chargers who has been riddled with injuries the past few years and hasn't lived up to expectations in San Diego.
It appears the Bills want a lot of guys involved in the offense, which will feature a lot of quick dump-offs, screen plays, Brad Smith Wildcat, and plenty of spread offense. Lee was the odd man out.
With Fred Jackson entrenched as the starting running back, CJ Spiller will be a guy who is looking to bounce back from a disappointing rookie season. What his role is, especially with kickoffs being less important because of the new rules, is unknown but it's likely he'll be the guy on the screen plays, draws, and lining up as a receiver at times. Then you have the Brad Smith factor. He's expected to get anywhere from 4 to 14 plays a game.
One of Ryan Fitzpatrick's strengths as a quarterback isn't the deep ball which eliminates the need for Lee Evans. Whether this is the real reason the Bills got rid of Evans is something that will be debated on message boards for some time. A lot of Bills fans believe this is strictly a financial move but the reality is Lee Evans was going to make in the 3 to 4 million dollar range this year, which is hardly much for a #1 type receiver.
All along Buddy Nix has been saying he wants to get his young guys on the field . The Bills strongest position depth wise was considered the Wide Receiver position. Getting rid of Evans gives them the chance to give Easley, Roosevelt and Davis a closer look. Kamar Aiken, from Central Florida, is also another guy who's been having a really good camp.
Despite all of this, the question remains - why trade Lee Evans now? Evans has 2 years left on his deal. Did the coaching staff really believe his best years were behind him or was it a case of not needing him in Chan Gailey's offense? Either way, this didn't sit well with the locker room initially, but the Bills have the benefit of having a lot of young players who won't care as much about it compared to a team full of veterans who would likely ask, "What kind of message does this send to other players on this team?"
This is something that will be forgotten quickly if the offense exceeds expectations this year. If it doesn't, you can bet Bills fans will question Buddy Nix and whether he's capable of running this team. I personally want to see how the season plays out - with Evans in Baltimore and how our offense performs this season. With so many playmakers on this team, I believe the potential is there to still have a very good offense this year. That's if the offensive line (the biggest question mark on this team) holds up.
DraytonFlorence: Wtf
DraytonFlorence: If I knew that was gonna happen.....?
DraytonFlorence: Wtf wtf wtf
The second tweet seems to imply he would have signed elsewhere had he known we were giving away important parts of the team. And then Drayton retweeted the following comment from a fan:
cwink1: @DraytonFlorence summing it up well.. Sorry you're stuck here.. think of the bright side, have a big year and we'll trade you to a contenderFollowed by:
Biblebasher666: @DraytonFlorence MAKES NO SENSE! Are we trying to win?Seriously...And then Drayton fired off a few more tweets of his own:
DraytonFlorence: Are we trying to win now or later????#wtfnoworlaterThat last tweet seems to backtrack a bit. There's no doubt Drayton was upset about the move. Those retweets are obviously telling. Given the ability to retweet a fan is a new voice for today's athlete. Fred Jackson also seemed upset by the move. Most of the young guys like CJ Spiller, AJ Williams and David Nelson didn't seem as hurt by the move and wished Evans well in Baltimore. The reality is, the younger guys like Donald Jones, David Nelson, Naaman Roosevelt, and Marcus Easley will benefit the most from this move.
DraytonFlorence: Sad day for the #bills
DraytonFlorence: Why so stupid
DraytonFlorence: I'm not mad at the trade I'm mad because this will change how defenses play us now
Surprisingly quiet was the most vocal guy on the team, Stevie Johnson. Johnson and George Wilson had shown some support for Evans when the rumors began. Johnson outwardly questioned the possibility of the move, calling Evans a team leader. I find it suspicious that he didn't have anything to say about it yesterday.
Stevie's first tweet on the matter was:
StevieJohnson13: ...iKno We All was like wtf! Huhh?!.... but FXCK IT THO! @Scoe11 @DaJones19 @DavidNelson86 @Nyce18 #SJ13 #BILLS #GoooooonSquaaaaadDonald Jones chimed in on the matter this morning when he retweets Stevie says and then follows it up with his own words ("gotta put da team on yo baaacckk thooo"):
DaJones19: RT @StevieJohnson13 GMorning World... FuhhWitMeee Wutupthoo..>>gotta put da team on yo baaacckk thoooStevie responded with:
StevieJohnson13: @Dajones19 haha Word!Fans were outraged that we gave up our perceived #1 receiver (it could be argued Stevie Johnson was slated for that role from the beginning of camp even though he often referred to Lee as "the guy") for a 4th round pick. A 3rd round pick may have been acceptable to most Bills fan but not a 4th round pick. The argument is finding a quality player for a 4th round pick is hard to find, especially with the Bills draft track record.
Here's a list of past Bills 4th round picks:
2011: Chris Hairston (RT)
2011: Da'Norris Seacy (S)
2010: Marcus Easley (WR)
2009: Shawn Nelson (TE)
2008: Reggie Corner (CB)
2008: Derek Fine (TE - No longer on team)
2007: Dwayne Right (RB - No longer on team)
2006: Ko Simpson (S - No longer on team and clearly not worth millions)
2005: Duke Preston (C - No longer on team)
2004: Tim Euhus (TE - No longer on team)
Finding a good player in the 4th round isn't easy. The jury is still out on Easley (who they have high hopes for), Searcy (who they hope will become a starter in the secondary very soon) and Hairston (more of a project RT). Shawn Nelson has been riddled with injuries and can't stay on the field. The word potential has been used with him and Easley a lot lately but the fact is, with some of the tight ends they've brought into camp who have performed well, Nelson may have a hard time making the team. Reggie Corner has had a pretty good training camp so far so it's not out of realm of possibility that he makes the team but up until this point, his career as a Bill has been forgettable.
According to the team, they wanted a 3rd round pick but ultimately settled with a 4th rounder from Baltimore which will likely end up being a late 4th round pick because of how good the Ravens are. There were rumors floating around that the Bills wanted a player included in the deal.
Evans is coming off his worst season with the Bills - 37 receptions for 578 yards and 4 Touchdowns. Numbers that can easily be replaced. Roscoe Parrish was well on his way to crushing those numbers before an injury curtailed his season. But the numbers aren't the issue for Bills fans. Most believed he freed up Stevie Johnson on the other side, who had a really good year eclipsing 1,000 yards receiving and 10 touchdowns.
In 2010 when Terrell Owens signed with the Bills, most believed that Lee Evans would have a breakout year opposite of Owens. He only had 44 receptions for 612 yards and 7 touchdowns.
Lee has only eclipsed 1,000 yards receiving twice in his career, in 2006 and 2008.
Lee finally gets to answer the question - with a reliable quarterback, can he be that explosive receiver he resembled in 2006 and 2008? He'll be opposite of Anquan Boldin with Joe Flacco as his quarterback in Baltimore. Many believe he's been the victim of not having a good quarterback and the constant switching of coaches, offensive coordinators and general managers throughout his tenure in Buffalo.
Ultimately I believe it was a numbers game in Buffalo. Buddy Nix and Chan Gailey want their young guys in this year. Donald Jones, who the coaching staff absolutely loves, will likely benefit the most. Roscoe Parrish, who was having the best season of his career prior to injuring himself will also get a ton of time on the field. David Nelson, who Darryl Talley said "has all the tools needed 2 emerge as a team leader & make the Pro Bowl within the next 2 years." Nelson is a guy who came on big last year as one of Fitzpatrick's go to guys. They have high hopes for Nelson.
And then you have interesting guys like Naaman Roosevelt, who has caught everything in camp and made a good case for himself to remain on the team, Marcus Easley, who is a big receiver with plenty of speed that they drafted last year with big expectations, and Craig "Buster" Davis, a guy they've given a good, long hard look at this past week in camp. Davis is a former first round pick with the Chargers who has been riddled with injuries the past few years and hasn't lived up to expectations in San Diego.
It appears the Bills want a lot of guys involved in the offense, which will feature a lot of quick dump-offs, screen plays, Brad Smith Wildcat, and plenty of spread offense. Lee was the odd man out.
With Fred Jackson entrenched as the starting running back, CJ Spiller will be a guy who is looking to bounce back from a disappointing rookie season. What his role is, especially with kickoffs being less important because of the new rules, is unknown but it's likely he'll be the guy on the screen plays, draws, and lining up as a receiver at times. Then you have the Brad Smith factor. He's expected to get anywhere from 4 to 14 plays a game.
One of Ryan Fitzpatrick's strengths as a quarterback isn't the deep ball which eliminates the need for Lee Evans. Whether this is the real reason the Bills got rid of Evans is something that will be debated on message boards for some time. A lot of Bills fans believe this is strictly a financial move but the reality is Lee Evans was going to make in the 3 to 4 million dollar range this year, which is hardly much for a #1 type receiver.
All along Buddy Nix has been saying he wants to get his young guys on the field . The Bills strongest position depth wise was considered the Wide Receiver position. Getting rid of Evans gives them the chance to give Easley, Roosevelt and Davis a closer look. Kamar Aiken, from Central Florida, is also another guy who's been having a really good camp.
Despite all of this, the question remains - why trade Lee Evans now? Evans has 2 years left on his deal. Did the coaching staff really believe his best years were behind him or was it a case of not needing him in Chan Gailey's offense? Either way, this didn't sit well with the locker room initially, but the Bills have the benefit of having a lot of young players who won't care as much about it compared to a team full of veterans who would likely ask, "What kind of message does this send to other players on this team?"
This is something that will be forgotten quickly if the offense exceeds expectations this year. If it doesn't, you can bet Bills fans will question Buddy Nix and whether he's capable of running this team. I personally want to see how the season plays out - with Evans in Baltimore and how our offense performs this season. With so many playmakers on this team, I believe the potential is there to still have a very good offense this year. That's if the offensive line (the biggest question mark on this team) holds up.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
August 11th Camp Notes
Apparently I picked the wrong practice to go to! Yesterday's night practice was described as a physical, hard hitting practice. Today's practice resembled a Friday practice before a Sunday game, meaning it was really light. It was almost like an extended walk through. Regardless, I still had a good time as the weather was beautiful and I had an awesome seat covered by the shade provided by the roof of the press box.
Lets get on with the report:
Michael Jasper wins the first man on the field award. I hope this is an indication of his work ethic. I've seen him come out early the other days I was at camp as well.
Dave Wannstedt was one of the first few coaches out and while observing him interacting with other coaches I realized he has a certain aura to him. This guy was a prominent coach in this league before and here he is, taking on this low key role in Buffalo. It feels good having an experienced guy taking on this role.
Jasper and Chris White were playing 1 handed catch. Both men lost, for those keeping score.
At this point the rest of the team made their way out and Torell Troup came out with a huge club on his injured right hand. Maybin was extra excited to inquire about Troup's new weapon.
Roscoe came out with just a hat on (no clothes). This was weird. Just messin'. As Gailey said yesterday, Parrish will be taking it easy for the next week or so. Shawn Nelson and LB Eddins were also sitting this one out. Alex Carrington warmed up with the Linebackers again. David Nelson, Donald Jones and Marcus Easley were participating - all guys who have been dinged up the past week.
After all of the stretches and standing around, we got some 7 on 7 stuff.
Time for special teams on the other field. I decided to skip this and keep my nice, shaded seat.
Time for the real 7 on 7.
RANDOM NUGGETS OF INFO:
Carrington is so much bigger than last year. He appears to have kept his speed as well.....Fitz and Thigpen were doing rollout drills at one point and I noticed how well Thigpen runs and how well he throws on the run. Beautiful spiral and velocity...Merriman and Kelsay were by each others side the entire first half of practice. They were constantly communicating together and being coached up...I didn't really see much from the Defense today but then again, they've been dominating camp lately...Justin Rogers was not practicing again but was working hard on the workout bike...Cordaro Howard and Mansfield Wrotto are essentially the same guy, right? Both from Georgia Tech with similar size and weight...I tried singling out Erik Pears on a few plays and he seemed to hold his own today...Just wanted to give Spencer Johnson some props for his play so far in camp. He's so far under the radar and gets so little attention, Felton Huggins is even laughing...
Today's Standouts: Scott Chandler, Dareus, Stevie Johnson and Marcus Easley.
Excuse any typos or mistakes, I wanted to get this report up for you guys as quick as possible. It's now time to watch the Chargers v. the Seahawks in the first televised preseason game. Make sure you come back tomorrow as I'll post some videos and have some thoughts on the latest news surrounding Lee Evans.
Lets get on with the report:
Michael Jasper wins the first man on the field award. I hope this is an indication of his work ethic. I've seen him come out early the other days I was at camp as well.
Dave Wannstedt was one of the first few coaches out and while observing him interacting with other coaches I realized he has a certain aura to him. This guy was a prominent coach in this league before and here he is, taking on this low key role in Buffalo. It feels good having an experienced guy taking on this role.
Jasper and Chris White were playing 1 handed catch. Both men lost, for those keeping score.
At this point the rest of the team made their way out and Torell Troup came out with a huge club on his injured right hand. Maybin was extra excited to inquire about Troup's new weapon.
Roscoe came out with just a hat on (no clothes). This was weird. Just messin'. As Gailey said yesterday, Parrish will be taking it easy for the next week or so. Shawn Nelson and LB Eddins were also sitting this one out. Alex Carrington warmed up with the Linebackers again. David Nelson, Donald Jones and Marcus Easley were participating - all guys who have been dinged up the past week.
After all of the stretches and standing around, we got some 7 on 7 stuff.
- Lee Evans had a beautiful over the shoulder catch to start the drill off.
- Evans dropped one on the very next play.
- Donald Jones had a nice catch over the middle.
- Chandler brought one in.
- Stevie Johnson with a short reception.
- Fitz overshot Lee Evans on the next play.
- Chandler brought in another reception.
- Aaron Williams sighting. Williams had a nice breakup on a ball heading toward the endzone.
- Brad Smith, lined up as receiver, caught a nice touchdown in the corner of the endzone. Crowd approved!
- The next ball was almost picked off by Jammie Kirlew.
- Reggie Corner made a nice play to break up a ball coming to David Nelson
- Kamar Aiken had a beautiful Touchdown catch from Levi Brown that got a nice response from the crowd.
- Roosevelt caught his 2nd touchdown of the day.
- On the other side of the field I noticed Antonio Coleman lost a one-on-one battle to Cordaro Howard.
- Mike Caussin had a nice catch on the next play.
- Lionel Dotson (who was being yelled at to report to some special teams duties early on and didn't hear his name over the megaphone which led to the coach going nuts) lost 2 consecutive battles to Colin Brown, #74.
- TJ Langley beat Isaiah Thompson. Not in a fight this time.
- Erik Pears beat Jammie Kirlew (pretty sure that's the last time I'll mention that name again) handily
- Meanwhile, on the other side, Fitz had a beautiful toss to Stevie Johnson. Johnson made a hell of an effort to bring this one. Crowd loved it.
- Fitz went back to #13 again but was a little bit off.
- Fitz completed one to David Nelson.
- Andy Levitre beat Spencer Johnson on the other side.
- Bad throw from Fitzy to Chandler.
- Completion to Donald Jones.
- Fitz rounded up this drill with a completion to CJ Spiller.
Time for special teams on the other field. I decided to skip this and keep my nice, shaded seat.
Time for the real 7 on 7.
- BIG run to the left by Fred Jackson.
- Incompletion to Jackson on a short pass.
- Completion to David Nelson.
- Catch and run by CJ Spiller. Decent gain.
- No Troup yet during this session.
- Short dump off to David Martin for a short gain.
- Another short completion to Jackson. Erik Pears held his own against Kelsay and kept him at bay.
- Thigpen roll out left and completion to Marcus Easley.
- Troup just checked in.
- Thigpen completion to Buster Davis. Davis looked smooth here.
- Bad throw to Roosevelt. Naaman never had a chance.
- Next play was the first ball I've seen Naaman drop.
- Thigpen fakes right, goes left to Easley. Easley is looking REAL good.
- 3rd team is out. 3 consecutive plays to Johnny White.
- Levi threw deep to Hubbard but he under threw him by a mile. Incomplete.
- Pass break up by DOYLE MILLER, intended for Kamar Aiken from Levi.
- Levi completion to Easley.
- First teamers back in.
- Designed screen to Stevie Johnson that the D was all over.
- Dareus dominated the next 2 plays. Would be sack on Fitz on the first one.
- Good long completion from Fitz to David Nelson. On this play Bell and company stuffed Chris White.
- Rollout right, completion to Chandler. McIntyre did a good job blocking Kelsay on the rollout.
- Another short completion to Chandler.
- GREAT catch over the middle by Donald Jones. D Bell held up Merriman on this play. Good work, Bell.
- Second team is back on.
- Short run by Johnny White.
- Thigpen with the right sideline completion to Easley.
- Quick toss to Johnny White.
- Run right by Johnny White stopped by MOATS. Moats was in perfect pursuit of White here.
- Caulcrick brought in a short reception.
- MAYBIN WATCH: Cordaro Howard stopped him here. Maybin couldn't do anything at the point of attack.
- Kelsay starts it off with a would-be sack on Fitz.
- Incomplete to Lee on the deep right side. Lee and Fitz just aren't clicking.
- Completion to Donald Jones.
- Spiller run sniffed out by Merriman who would have smashed Spiller if they were really hitting.
- Fitz incompletion to Easley.
- Another incompletion to Evans from Fitz.
- Run by Johnny White that was stopped near the line.
- Completion to Easley from Fitz.
- Quick throw to Johnny White that turned into a nice play. Troup got a good push on this play.
- Thigpen incompletion. Didn't catch the intended target.
- The last play of the day was an incompletion to Caussin.
Camp ended a bit early today, at 4:48 pm. Like I mentioned above, this was a real light practice. No pads. No hitting.
AFTER PRACTICE:
Afterwards Thigpen was throwing to Mike Caussin who wanted some extra reps.
Chad Rinehart also did some extra drills by himself.
Fitz was talking with Easley extensively after practice, telling him where he needs to be on whatever route they were discussing.
Nelson was also catching a few balls as well.
I took a lot of video footage today. I will sort it out tomorrow so if you want to see footage from today's camp, come back here and check it out.
I also realized that tweeting, shooting video and taking notes was a bit challenging and I didn't get to focus on certain guys as much as I hoped to. I was getting all sorts of questions on twitter about certain guys but I truthfully couldn't keep up with everything. I've decided that while the video footage is nice, it's not necessary and that focusing on certain guys is likely the more productive thing to do. I apologize if I don't say much about a certain guy.. like Alex Carrington who I observed more in warmups and less in actual play.
RANDOM NUGGETS OF INFO:
Carrington is so much bigger than last year. He appears to have kept his speed as well.....Fitz and Thigpen were doing rollout drills at one point and I noticed how well Thigpen runs and how well he throws on the run. Beautiful spiral and velocity...Merriman and Kelsay were by each others side the entire first half of practice. They were constantly communicating together and being coached up...I didn't really see much from the Defense today but then again, they've been dominating camp lately...Justin Rogers was not practicing again but was working hard on the workout bike...Cordaro Howard and Mansfield Wrotto are essentially the same guy, right? Both from Georgia Tech with similar size and weight...I tried singling out Erik Pears on a few plays and he seemed to hold his own today...Just wanted to give Spencer Johnson some props for his play so far in camp. He's so far under the radar and gets so little attention, Felton Huggins is even laughing...
Today's Standouts: Scott Chandler, Dareus, Stevie Johnson and Marcus Easley.
Excuse any typos or mistakes, I wanted to get this report up for you guys as quick as possible. It's now time to watch the Chargers v. the Seahawks in the first televised preseason game. Make sure you come back tomorrow as I'll post some videos and have some thoughts on the latest news surrounding Lee Evans.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Troup has cracked bone in hand
Torell Troup was diagnosed with a cracked bone in his right hand. Troup said he believed it happened when he got his hand stuck in Eric Wood's pads. He'll be fitted for a cast soon and it's expected the cast will be removed by the season opener. “Somewhere in my hand I’ve got a little broken bone, but it’ll be fine,” Troup said. “I’m still going to play. I’ve just got to wait for the pain to go away and they’re going to cast it up and I’ll get out there again.”
My Take: Too bad for Troup who was having his best training camp yet (OKAY -- out of 2). Troup made some big strides from last year, improving on his handwork and his core strength through some intense offseason workouts. The good news is this doesn't appear to be a season long injury and if they handle it properly, he should be good to go for the season opener. The only tricky thing is he's never played with this type of injury so we don't know how it will affect his overall play.
My Take: Too bad for Troup who was having his best training camp yet (OKAY -- out of 2). Troup made some big strides from last year, improving on his handwork and his core strength through some intense offseason workouts. The good news is this doesn't appear to be a season long injury and if they handle it properly, he should be good to go for the season opener. The only tricky thing is he's never played with this type of injury so we don't know how it will affect his overall play.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Quick note..
- The Bills have off today which is probably a great time to have off considering all of the injuries and sore muscles.
- I'll be at camp on Thursday with minute-by-minute updates and a ridiculously long review.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Injuries mount but nothing to be too concerned about
- Shawn Nelson has been out for a week with a pulled muscle and isn't likely to return until Wednesday at the earliest, according to Coach Gailey. Nelson's tenure with the Bills has been a big disappointment thus far. I've heard the words "So much potential" associated with Nelson so many times but he can't stay healthy.
- Drayton Florence sprained his ankle during Saturday night's practice. Gailey said that he's going to miss the first preseason game but shouldn't be out much longer than that. Because of the depth in our secondary, this isn't something that concerns me. Florence missing a game of preseason doesn't affect the team at all.
- Demetrius Bell left Sunday's practice with a strained shoulder. Gailey said "it'd be a couple of days and probably he'll be back." Wang filled in at the Left Tackle position. Yes, Wang, Levitre and Wood. Kidding aside, I hope I'm wrong about Wang. Thankfully Bell's injury won't keep him out long but if it were serious - I have to tell you how petrified I am of our depth on the offensive line. Buddy keeps insisting that their line isn't as bad as we think it is. I'll take your word for it, Mr. Nix.
- Today's inactives include: Donald Jones, Drayton Florence, Justin Rogers, Kelvin Sheppard, Kellen Heard, Marcus Easley, and Shawn Nelson.
- On the positive side, both Aaron Williams and Shawne Merriman returned to practice today.
Peter King gives the Bills some props
SI_PeterKing: Bills bits: Merriman says he's baaack ... Brad Smith's big arm on display ... Dareus, KWilliams load of trouble ... This is not a 4-12 team.
That was a recent tweet from Sports Illustrated's Peter King. He will post more Bills camp thoughts in tomorrow's edition of Monday Morning Quarterback which can be read on Sports Illustrated's website.
He also tweeted the following:
SI_PeterKing: Great conversation with Brad Smith today about how the Jets' chase for Nnamdi cost them him: "The Lord works in mysterious ways.''
Since the Bills are so under the radar and get about as much publicity as I do on ESPN, this is good news for Bills fans. We can finally read some positive stuff and maybe garner a smidgen of respect from the masses. That last part is still unlikely.
That was a recent tweet from Sports Illustrated's Peter King. He will post more Bills camp thoughts in tomorrow's edition of Monday Morning Quarterback which can be read on Sports Illustrated's website.
He also tweeted the following:
SI_PeterKing: Great conversation with Brad Smith today about how the Jets' chase for Nnamdi cost them him: "The Lord works in mysterious ways.''
Since the Bills are so under the radar and get about as much publicity as I do on ESPN, this is good news for Bills fans. We can finally read some positive stuff and maybe garner a smidgen of respect from the masses. That last part is still unlikely.
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