Olean Times Herald

‘Not only did Buffalo verify its place among the conference elite, but it also edged a bit closer to the AFC’s No. 2 playoff seed — Pittsburgh is 11-2 and the Bills 10-3, but with the head-to-head tiebreaker — and, if Cleveland beats Baltimore tonight, a postseason berth is assured.’

‘McDermott’s squad has conjured as many victories against teams with winning marks in the first dozen games this year as it did in his first 48 as Buffalo coach.’

‘This game, matching the 11-1 Steelers and the 9-3 Bills, is the most meaningful one between these two regional rivals separated by barely 200 miles, since the fateful finale of the 2004 season.’

‘Mayfield (6-foot-1, 215 pounds) has emerged, leading Cleveland to a 9-3 start – the same as Buffalo – and became the leader the Browns expected. But Allen has his own leadership skills – albeit not quite as passionate – plus a way bigger arm and more impressive rushing proficiency based on his size (6-5, 237) and speed.’

‘The win lifted the Bills to 9-3, two games behind the Steelers (11-1), whom they host Sunday night. And while Kansas City and Pittsburgh are tied for the American Football Conference’s best record and resurgent Cleveland is tied with Buffalo, it can clearly enhance its playoff position and the quality of its first-round postseason foe over the season’s final quarter.’

‘But, if you’re wondering why the line on tonight’s game is a “pick” it’s because of San Francisco’s defense.’

‘What’s interesting is how the Dolphins are winning. Their offense is pedestrian, ranking in the middle of the league in points scored. But Miami’s defense ranks second in the NFL in fewest points surrendered and its highly proficient special teams have been the key to an unexpected eight victories.’

‘But as the Bills embark on the home stretch of their season, there’s the reality that they’ve had trouble putting teams away.’

‘Still, while there were some reasons for encouragement in Buffalo’s performance, there were also some circumstances creating genuine concern.’

‘The win ended a four-game losing streak against the Chargers, with Buffalo having last beaten them in 2008.’

‘Buffalo is scoring an average of 27 points per game and giving up an equal number while L.A. is scoring at a 26-point rate and also giving up 27.’

‘Herbert is completing 68 percent of his passes with 22 touchdowns, six interceptions and a 104.7 passer rating. He’s been sacked 19 times and has rushed for three scores.’

‘The most common complaint among my emails was Buffalo’s failure to have a tall player or two stationed in the end zone to knock down a Hail Mary pass intended for the 6-foot-1 Hopkins.’

‘None of them was trying for an interception. Hyde and Poyer were both reaching for the ball with one hand, hardly the way one tries to make a pick, while the 5-foot-11 White, in front, was trying to force his hands between those of the 6-1 Hopkins.’

‘This one won’t be easy for Buffalo’s players to forget.’