‘With backup running back Travaris Cadet injured last week, the Bills were down to Mike Tolbert and Marcus Murphy in the backfield, along with fullback Patrick DiMarco. Murphy was promoted from the practice squad earlier in the week and entered the game with only one career carry, in 2015.’
Archives for January 1, 2018
Second quarter analysis: Defense playing strong as Bills hold halftime lead
‘The Bills’ defense, however, had a great quarter, conceding just 24 yards while forcing three punts. Coach Sean McDermott made a gutsy call by taking timeout before a Dolphins’ third and 4 with 1:50 left in the half, and the defense got the stop to give the offense time for one more drive.’
First quarter analysis: Bills take early lead in must-win finale vs. Dolphins
‘After forcing a three-and-out to open the game, the Bills drove 72 yards in seven plays for a touchdown, capped by Tyrod Taylor’s 26-yard touchdown pass. Tight end Nick O’Leary got behind the defense on the play-action bootleg and was wide open in the end zone. CBS cameras showed O’Leary’s grandfather, golf legend Jack Nicklaus, in attendance at the game.’
What the national media are saying: Reaction to Bills ending the drought
‘Within an hour, the Buffalo Bills finally make the playoffs after 17 years, and North Korea outlines scenario for using nuclear weapons. Happy New Year!’
Stunned and ecstatic fans flock to greet team and celebrate at First Night
‘”I’ve never seen a playoff game in my life,” said Michael Grimaldi, 23, who lives in North Tonawanda and was there with his brother, Jonathan, and Paul, his father. “I was 5 the last time the Bills went to the playoffs. I literally cannot explain how I’m feeling.”‘
The drought is over! The Bills are in playoffs
‘For now, the laughing ceases. The drought is over, and half a generation of sheer misery has been brought to a gleeful halt thanks to Buffalo’s 22-16 victory over Miami Sunday afternoon at Hard Rock Stadium, and Cincinnati’s somewhat stunning victory over the Ravens in Baltimore.’
Five things to know about the Jaguars, the Bills’ wild-card opponent
‘Welcome to Sacksonville: That’s the nickname the Jaguars have been using this year. They ranked second in the NFL with 55 sacks – one behind the top-ranked Steelers – with 14.5 from Calais Campbell and 12 by Yannick Ngakoue. The Jags’ fierce defense was also second in the league in interceptions (21, led by A.J. Bouye’s 6), second in points allowed (16.9 per game) and first in forced fumbles (17). Bills QB Tyrod Taylor is known for taking care of the football, but that will be at a premium Sunday.’
Bengals help Bills party like it’s 1999
‘“Andy Dalton, you heard it here first, I love you man, I love you,” said safety Micah Hyde once the media was allowed inside to witness the raucous celebration taking place.’
Bills report card: The ‘process’ works, Buffalo earns an ‘A’
‘Give the Bills credit for sticking to Sean McDermott’s “process,” not only throughout the season, but in this game because it took all they had to stay focused on what was happening at Hard Rock Stadium and not worry about the proceedings in Baltimore. They certainly made their fans sweat with that scary fourth quarter, but Jordan Poyer’s interception eased the building tension. The Bills needed to take care of their own business, and they did it. Major props. Sayonara, drought.’
The Bills made the playoffs and Twitter went crazy
‘Someone is setting off fireworks in my neighborhood. Definitely #Bills related.’
Buffalo Bills thank Cincinnati Bengals with gift of wings
‘How grateful? The team announced on Twitter that it is sending the Bengals chicken wings.’
Bills will have Deonte Thompson for game against Dolphins
‘Offensive lineman Ryan Groy, who was also listed as questionable, will also be available.’
Pollock: Bills get some help to end 17-year playoff drought
‘So here’s how the anxiety unfolded trying to keep track of the four teams bidding for two AFC wild-card playoffs spots all with 4:25 p.m. kickoffs…’.
LeSean McCoy injury: Buffalo Bills running back carted off field against Dolphins
‘Before leaving with the injury, McCoy had 11 carries for 10 yards. He also had two catches for 22 yards. The only other two active running backs for the Bills are Mike Tolbert and Marcus Murphy.’
Buffalo Bills’ Kyle Williams scores rushing TD and Twitter erupts (Best reactions)
‘Kyle Williams just scored a TD. This is not a test.’