‘Somewhat more surprising is Brown, who will be making his fifth straight trip to Hawaii. He has started all 14 games at left guard for a much-maligned offensive line that has given up 55 sacks this season — 48 of them with Rob Johnson at quarterback — and paves the way for a ground attack that ranks 19th in the league in rush yards per game with 109.4.’
Belichick eases on defense
‘Even if most players are grasping what they need to do, all 11 must be on the same page for the defense to be effective. On some occasions, communication has broken down, and the result has been too much opportunity for opposing offenses.’
2001 Opponent Update
‘The Bills will play their usual home-and-home series with the other AFC East opponents. In addition, their cross-conference opponents in the NFC West have also been determined. Here are the Bills NFC opponents…’
Phillips: These Bills are better
‘…coach Wade Phillips said yesterday he has no plans to fire Pendry or any of his other beleageured offensive assistants.’
Elbow injury may sideline Johnson
‘…he admitted yesterday that while he’s not listed on the injury report, there’s a chance he might be unable to play Sunday against the New England Patriots.’
Scaling back the ‘D’
‘According to coach Bill Belichick, the players have not been able to handle the defenses he outlined for them.’
Belichick, defense feel the strain
‘Yesterday, Belichick said he has had to dramatically scale back the scope of his defensive scheme because his players weren’t picking it up.’
Patriots continuing to simplify defense
‘…Bill Belichick has been disturbed, disappointed and dumbstruck that too often this season his Patriots have appeared soft, passive and disjointed because of poor communications against even some of the most mediocre offenses they’ve faced.’
Offense’s lack of production leaves Bledsoe frustrated
‘"It’s been extremely draining," Bledsoe said of the emotional currency he has invested in the train-wreck season. "To come in with expectations, then to lose so many close games early, then to come back each week and battle again and still end up losing 10 of 14 has just been very, very difficult."’
Some Suggestions For Ralph Wilson After Bills’ Next Two Meaningless Games
‘So with a very strong likelihood that Buffalo will end its season in the midst of a five-game losing streak, here’s my suggestions for owner Ralph Wilson as to how to clean up the mess at One Bills Drive.’
Bledsoe: I want to stay in New England
‘Patriots quarterback Drew Bledsoe says he wants to finish his career in New England, despite a disappointing season that finds his team in last place.’
Bills Hansen, Fina questionable; Johnson nursing sore elbow
‘The banged-up Buffalo Bills might be minus a couple of more players as defensive end Phil Hansen and tackle John Fina are listed as questionable for this weekend’s game.’
Phillips gives Johnson vote of confidence
‘"We’re making yardage and he’s a high-rated passer. That’s why we feel like he has a future," the Buffalo Bills’ coach said of his quarterback.’
No Surprise Ending For Buffalo
‘When Ronnie Jones sends his troops out on the field, you know something bad is going to happen. You just don’t know when. Or how.’
Play calling has the Bills mystified
‘Moulds, when asked why he’s not getting the ball, responded, "You guys have to ask the coaches that. I just go out and run the routes that they call."’