Archives for December 16, 2003

‘RT Mike Williams is playing better as his second season winds to a close. The former No. 4 overall draft pick has fared well in recent weeks pass blocking as he contained New York’s Michael Strahan and didn’t allow Tennessee’s Jevon Kearse to register a sack when lined up against him.’

‘”I don’t know whether he’ll be able to make it either week,” head coach Gregg Williams said Monday.’

‘Players also like Williams swagger and self confidence, even though that’s been dented in the past few months, and they even like the fact he had the guts to do the unexpected at times, even though the unexpected usually turned into an expected disaster. But he made some promises he couldn’t keep, and he made some poor hiring choices, and he often didn’t appear to manage the clock or the game well from the sidelines. He also never seemed to “get it” that sometimes, the head coach has to take the hit even when he knows it wasn’t his fault.’

‘It was a fitting end to the Bills season. They complained about a few calls that they believe would have made the difference, their quarterback had another costly fumble, and the offensive coordinator made a questionable choice with the game on the line. I thought that last play of the game was inexcusable.’

‘Things were kind of down and out Monday as players gathered for the first time knowing they’re out of the playoff race. All guaranteed they’d play hard for themselves and the fans in the final two games against Miami and New England.’

”’We could’ve done things earlier in the game and not been in that situation,” Teague said. ”You can’t dwell on one play.”’

‘Buffalo Bills safety Izell Reese tore his left calf and is likely to miss the rest of the season.’

‘Presumably he decided head coach Gregg Williams was history a month ago. Ditto offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride and possibly one or two of the other offensive aides. But there are also personnel issues that must be addressed. Since the Bills are playing for nothing – including, it would seem, Williams’ job – why not thank Eric Moulds for the effort and tell him to take the last two games off to rest his nagging groin injury to be fully healthy next season? He’s not going to the Pro Bowl and is playing at a fraction if his ability. And what about running back? Travis Henry has gone over 1,200 yards and played the last 4 1/2 games with a broken leg. He’s earned the right to play if he desires, but with two cold weather games coming up – Miami at “The Ralph” and at New England – why not at least have him split time with Willis McGahee?’