Archives for March 16, 2009

‘Buffalo’s defense was mediocre by comparison in 2008 and respectable when considering how it often stood by itself. The unit permitted 326.1 yards per game, good for 14th in the NFL, while also finishing 14th in points allowed with 342. While a general football fan might take a passing glance at the numbers and conclude the defense was OK, specific Bills fans know the stats should be accompanied by a positive asterisk. The group was better than what superficially looks like a mediocre showing, as the defenders were forced to handle their roles while simultaneously propping up the offense.’

‘Here now are McNally’s 50th All-Time Team offense and special teams, with some special honorable mentions for offensive linemen, being a former offensive line coach. We’ll release his defensive team and head coach when voting opens for defensive candidates later this month.’

‘”Finally, the Bills are spending some money,” said Joe Vitello. “They’re finally starting to get competitive.”‘

‘Say all you want about Owens, but he is a tireless worker who takes care of his body, even if his mind isn’t always there. He’s still got talent, too, despite being on the downside of his career. Could he make Buffalo better? Sure, but probably not enough to make a real difference. For that to happen, there really was only one team for which Owens could have gone that would have returned Super Bowl-type dividends: The New England Patriots.’

‘NFL.com reported those announcements could come during the March 22-25 owners’ meetings in Dana Point, Calif.’

‘Peyton Manning’s Indianapolis Colts are the NFL’s leading choice to be the Bills’ opponent, according to a league source.’

‘A long line of Bills fans started shortly after 10:00 a.m. at the Bills Store for the 11:00 a.m. opening and all were seemingly thrilled with the addition of Owens to the Bills roster.’