Archives for September 2, 2004

‘”The big thing for them is to get some time working together because they haven’t gotten many opportunities,” Bledsoe said. “Obviously in a perfect world you’d like to be able to rest everybody right now. But in that situation, you’re probably going to see a little more of them than you would have in a normal fourth preseason game.”‘

‘Through three preseason games, Bledsoe and the first-unit offense have produced four field goals in 15 possessions. The other 11 series ended with eight punts, one interception, one fumble and one missed field goal.’

‘”When Lawyer first came here, he took me under his wing and Lawyer and I have become the best of friends,” Wire said. “He told me when he first came here that he would make me a good strong safety.”‘

‘Needless to say, many of the key questions that hovered over the Buffalo Bills heading into training camp after last season’s 6-10 finish that cost Gregg Williams his job, were answered in a positive way over the past month. Unfortunately for the team and its die-hard fans, who haven’t cheered a playoff team since 1999, a rash of late-camp injuries, an offensive line still in a state of upheaval and a schedule that’s downright mean has tempered the enthusiasm just so heading into the regular season opener on Sept. 12 against Jacksonville.’

‘Vagabond southpaw Greg Zolman, who has had an erratic camp, is expected to be cut after Thursday’s final preseason game in Detroit.’

‘The Bills stole half of the University of Tennessee’s starting defensive backfield with the signing of safety Rashad Baker and cornerback Jabari Greer, two draft-rated players who for various reasons went un-selected. Both street free agents have been impressive in training camp and should make the final roster and play.’

‘”If it was a regular season game I would play,” Henry said. “Considering the starters aren’t going to be playing that much, my guess is I think they’ll hold me out.”‘

‘But Sunday’s reduction to 53 players might well be the toughest in team history. And the reason is injuries at quarterback.’

‘Henry might not be as charismatic as Michael Jordan, but he’s a fantastic, big-hearted, dedicated, and fearless player. It’s time to show him some love.’

‘Prediction: Buffalo looks like a .500 team, but if it can survive a November stretch against New England, St. Louis, Seattle and Miami in consecutive weeks, they could sneak into the playoffs.’