Archives for January 7, 2006

‘In the days and weeks after the game, the Bills received congratulation messages from all corners of the globe. People who were dying of cancer sent letters saying the Bills’ comeback had inspired them to fight harder. Teachers sent letters explaining how the Bills’ comeback would become a teaching aide for them.’

‘"Tom and I have worked together for five years and it is very hard see him go," Mularkey said. "But that’s the tough part about this business when you want to make a change, and in some instances, a big change at a coordinator’s spot. But it was necessary to make the change. . . . I wish him nothing but great things."’

‘On the defensive side of the ball, defensive line coach Tim Krumrie, linebackers coach Don Blackmon and defensive backs coach Steve Szabo won’t be returning for a third season on coach Mike Mularkey’s staff. That an assistant was fired at each position reflects just how poorly Buffalo’s defense performed in 2005.’

‘Whether it be practicality or a publicity stunt, hiring Levy better yield results. Fans deserve a great show for the money they spend. Don’t let us down.’

‘”I think it’s an outstanding hire,” Smith said. “He will definitely stabilize the organization, which has been on a rough road the past few years. Coach Levy will put morale back at a high level.”‘

.'”We appreciate everything these coaches have done in terms of their time and efforts and sacrifices, especially in taking away from their families,” Mularkey said.’

‘”I admit, the game might have gotten far enough past Marv that this hiring could be a train wreck. But I also wouldn’t be a bit surprised if he gets the job done. “What’s certain is, given his body of work as the Bills’ coach, Marv’s earned the right to prove he can do it.”‘

‘I think Levy too classy to wish for Mularkey and the Bills anything but the best. But I also think you cannot rule out the possibility there’s a scenario in the recesses of Levy’s mind in which he returns as Bills coach.’

The Ugly

Willis McGahee – Before the October 23 game against the Raiders, the Bills’ running back declared himself the best back in the NFL. Since the statement, McGahee played more like an undrafted free agent, averaging about 50 yards per game in the second half and drawing ire from coach Mike Mularkey for his style. McGahee also cried about his carries and seemed more interested in getting 1,000 rushing yards than the fact that Buffalo blew a 21-0 lead in Miami.

‘Dimissing Clements was difficult for Mularkey. The two worked together for three years in Pittsburgh and Mularkey brought Clements with him to Buffalo two years ago. Mularkey says they will remain friends.’

‘The status of Defensive Coordinator Jerry Gray remains uncertain. Gray has been mentioned as a candidate for the tops job with the Houston Texans.’

‘”It is time for a change in taking another step in a different direction,” Mularkey said in a released statement.’