[Del Rio Upset with henderson]

I, too, feel it's a dream, long shot scenerio. However, if the Bills offered something of value to the Jags - and I don't know what that'd be other than draft picks, I could see them handing over a player who obviously has some problems with the coach. If we made the first move, something could happen. And, I think, if he stayed healthy, he'd be one player - one guy - if healthy, that could alter our defense from slightly above average to top shelf. If we could consistently stop the run, then our defense would look entirely different. Our corners could have a chance to shine, and our pressure guys could do just that without worrying as much about the run. So good, but probably not likely.

[Cowboys Cut Greg Ellis]

Nice, rpcolosi - and everything I read there meshes with what our new D-line coach is implementing. We'd want him as a DE, and as the Giants recently showed, you can't have too many good D-linemen. He'd probably take less going somewhere he likes, because, as I understand it, he's guaranteed money from Dallas. Why not? If, for no better reason, than to stop the Pat's from getting him. And, Maybin could certainly use all the tutelage he can get.

Who knows what the Bills front office thinks about it, though. I do think it's a given that the Pat's will be pursuing him.

[New D-line coach]

I believe that coaching is more important in football than any other aspect. A group of star athletes won't perform well together if they aren't working together as one. On the other hand, a group of mediocre players can over-achieve with excellent coaching. To the point: I'm liking what I hear about our new D-line coach. The guy looks to be the best available at that position in this past offseason, so props to the F.O. for getting him. And, he's bringing in less orthodox training - the martial arts stuff - to help his players. I like that he takes such an approach, which translates to me as a guy who's turning over every stone when it comes to getting the most out of his positional players. So, I'm thinking that we could see many of the same guys, but at a different level. Won't it be nice to see our D-line dictating plays this year?

As an aside, I hope the Bills go after Ellis, if for no other reason than to stop the Patriots from getting him.

[The need to run the football in Nov, Dec in Buffalo]

Teams know we can run. We've got to prove we can beat them in the air. Given the particular nature of our stadium, I think it is a grave error for a coach not to be sure his team can play in those conditions better than their opponent. I haven't seen that lately of the Bills. It's scary watching them in the snow, because,when in my younger days I would've considered it an advantage right off the bat, now I cringe and see that the opponent might actually have the advantage. That comes down to our QB, I think, more than anyone. He's got to be able to play in bad weather. But, as a whole, the team should practice outside a lot more, I think.

[How many different defenses are there?]

I was just wondering, if we had a new coach come in in the near future (we probably will), they'd implement a new scheme. Many teams are switching to the 3-4, and I'd expect a coordinator to strongly consider that; but, I wouldn't mind seeing someone come up with something different, maybe a new brand of defensive - be the innovator instead of the copy cat. Because, lately, it seems the Bills jump on bandwagons when the trend is beginning to get old, and when teams are beginning to come up with specific styles to beat it. I'd hate to get locked into a system, say the 3-4, at a time when offenses are doing things to specifically beat that system. Our Cover 2 seems like it had that timing.

[This is our Division]

Ability to move in the pocket? That's the one thing he DIDN'T do well. Brady is almost entirely ineffective when he's pressured. See: Super Bowl 42

 

I think that is the blueprint for beating them: pressure - not stop - on Brady. I absolutely agree that is the best approach to shutting down that offense. And, I think we'll give them a game that first game, because I don't think they'll be as prepared for Buffalo as they might later in the season, and our guys will be pumped up big time, and will play with a big chip on their shoulders.

[John Henderson]

I think it was wishful thinking on our part. That "It's not delivery" comment was priceless...Definately we could use an upgrade at DT, but, I'm holding out hope that McCargo turns it around this year with our new D-line coach, who, I think, will be fielding a much improved group of linemen this year. As for more pressing needs, I think the F.O. is taking a short wait and see approach to LT. If Walker doesn't appear to be quick enough, or looks like he's not cutting it, they'll try to get one of the veterans still out there. If there's an addition, I'd bet it'll be at LT.

[This is our Division]

Check out this article: http://www.buffalonews.com/452/story/687829.html

 

I've been writing here for the last month or two how I think the Bills will be improved this year, and how I see them definately in contention for the playoffs as a wild card. Well, I read this article and it was a bit of a wake up call for me. Looking at everything the Patriots did this off-season - and they were already a good team - they go out and pick up two very good recievers, when they already had Moss and Welker, and picking up F. Taylor, when they were the best running team in the division, at least against division rivals, and then going out and picking up two cornerbacks, one of which has a history of shutting down T. Owens. After reading the article, I thought: if the Bills had that roster at the end of last season, they probably wouldn't have thought they needed to improve much. Our Bills accept players at positions that are question marks, and ultimately, over the last decade, many of them end up not living up to expectations. Our team has been satisfied with mediocrity while other teams pursue excellence. I'm hoping I'm wrong, and that our roster is better than I think, but, after reading that article, it looks like the Patriots are absolutely stacked, and there are other teams as good, too, that we'd have to contend with: Pittsburgh, San Diego - and in the NFC the Giants and the Eagles have crazy talent. I guess I'm saying that it really hit home how questionable our roster is when it's lined up next to these playoff teams. It looks like we'll have to have luck on our side, and get everything out of our players, and call all the right plays to even be in the hunt.

At least we won't have to wait long to see how we stack up against the Pat's.

[All you Hamden Lovers should see plenty of him this year]

I suppose Joey Porter shouldn't be named because he only had 17.5 sacks last season...playing part time. Now he has been informed he will play full time this season.

Playing along with Jason Taylor this season the Dolphins might just set a new sack record.

 

To be real, I'd be more concerned about the Bills facing Kris Jenkins 2x this season. He dominated the Bills O line while taking on three blockers and still got to the QB. Yea, that's right, both guards and center tried to block him in the first game had had little success. That is the main reason those players are no longer in Buffalo and were cut lose.

 

But what gets me is how can this batch of nincompoops on the coaching staff think things will be better by having two rookie guards and a back up free agent center blocking him when seasoned veteran players couldn't get the job done. Not to mention that the rookie O line coach didn't seem to get his job done last season either, so who will teach these new players the proper technique they will need to succeed???

 

 

I like your reasoning and your memory. The Bills front office is apparently willing to rely on athleticism and skill, even out of rookies and previous part timers. I'm personally up in the air on this one. I actually like our interior, and think it'll be good - but definately better year two and three. We haven't seen Walker as LT yet, so we can't clamor for an upgrade until he stinks it up. I think this year the F.O. is looking to get by with a line like Arizona had last year - decent. Not great, not terrible. I'll hold off on judging them until I see them play.

[How many different defenses are there?]

Obviously, with my attendance here, I'm a football fan. I read the posts everyday looking for some new way to entertain my thoughts about the Bills. Mostly I just like talking and reading football.

I was thinking. There is the 3-4, and the 4-3. There's variations of the two. There's the old 4-6. What other forms might the defenses take in the future? Right now the 3-4 is envogue. What changes could be made to a defense to make it better?

[Sad Sack Bills]

The Bills have the best ST's unit. That counts for something outside of the "we don't have X number of stars..." And this is the Bills' first year in awhile with 2 stud WR's, a chain-moving 3rd WR, 2 stud RB's, promising TE's (Fine will surprise some people and Nelson has some wheels), what looks to be an imposing interior OL, and a very good secondary. I'd like to see another stout DT and Tinoisamoa (or a better alternative) added to shore-up the LB'er spots, but I think the Bills have the makings of a good team this year.

 

 

I like your thinking - and agree. I've wondered why the Bills didn't pursue certain things this offseason more, considering, as I believe, they weren't trying to hold back spending for the sake of being cheap - which is to say, I think if they saw a real need and saw a good upgrade, they would've gone after it. And then they didn't sign an OLB, which means they either didn't offer enough, or weren't convinced they needed one. Again, we obviously need an upgrade at DT. The stats for stopping the run last year put the best in our division on top, and the parellels for stopping the run and winning are huge, and we were bad at it last year; so, unless they believe McCargo will break out this year, or Williams will blossom, then we might be looking at the one spot on our Defense which, in a man, is the difference between playoffs and almost. If we can't stop the run, we'll be in trouble. I'm hoping our new D-line coach will turn a bust into a star in McCargo.

[Who makes and calls the plays?]

I know the readers here are intelligent and don't like repeat posts, so I tried to look and see if I posted anything like this before, but couldn't figure it out, so, if it has already been asked, I apologize.

Anyway, when I read people's posts saying how terrible Dick Jauron is on game day, and the bad play calling, and the horrible offense, I always wonder who's job it is to make up the plays and to call them on the field, both offensively and defensively. Other than the Patriots, who seem to do good with new coordinators - which I assume means the Bill B. does a lot when it comes to plays - it seems that a coach of average ability could be considered great with the right coordinators. I guess Indy will be a good test of that this year. To the point, doesn't the O.C. and the D.C. make the plays and call them, or, does Jauron decide which plays to call, or is it o.k.'d by him before the play? How does it work, and who should really be getting the critisism for bad play calling?

[Six consecutive years where you just plain suck on offense]

I think the one main reason for our decline last year after game six was Trent Edwards and other QB play. It was the worst I've ever seen. Maybe O.C. had something to do with it, but Trent looked terrified out there, and absolutely unwilling to throw the ball. Deer in the headlights. No other team could've won with that kind of QB play. Let's hope it doesn't happen again, or, it if does, they see the signs quick and substitute.

[Marshawn bulked up a bit]

The RB's speed, and Marshawn's, are similar. I think what makes him seem slow is that he hasn't had a lot of opportunities to run more than ten yards without carrying people on his back. Still, when he has, he seems to get caught from behind after about twenty yards. I think the 40yrd times are not a clear picture on going the distance speed. Some backs might get faster and faster, or keep that speed going - as AP seems to, and some might hit their peak at the twenty yard or thirty, and slow down some after. I think a 100 yard dash time might be interesting to see.

[Hello, Dick, why did we draft Maybin #1?]

I wouldn't be surprised in Maybin didn't see the field a lot this year. He's got to get a little bigger, and then, it'd most likely be on passing downs. The F.O. said, in picking him, one of the things that separated him from the other few top DE's fit for a 4-3 was that he could line up on EITHER side without it affected his play. Add his first step which can't be taught, his age, and I think they wanted to be able to bulk him up some and teach him into a role. My guess is taking Kelsay's place on passing downs, filling in for injury, and maybe OLB on obvious blitz plays.

As for Drafting - and why Jauron did it now - I still believe this draft marks the first one in a long time without heavy Wilson interference, and Wilson family. I think we're seeing a pure football draft for the first time in maybe ten years. And Buddy Nix.

[It's Official: Pisa agrees to terms with the Bears]

I'd like nothing more than an upgrade at the OLB position, but, when I looked into it, his stats weren't much better than ellison's, and he'd be only a two down backer. It makes sense not to pay a lot unless he's a considerable upgrade. Let's see if Ellison gets beat up on this year, or if the Bills sign someone else, or if someone on the roster unseats him. I'd be happier seeing Poz light it up this year, with a consistent Ellison, than a slight upgrade over Ellison, and no improvement out of Poz.

[How good would we be if......]

Definately, a handful of other coaches could have done more, I think. If he doesn't get it done this year, then I hope we'll have one of 'em next year. As it is, Jauron will have his chance to prove himself this year against some good teams and coaches.

[Jon Jansen released]

How many O-linemen should we look to keep - I'm not sure how many we usually have room for on the roster... but, at this point, if the money is right... competition is never a bad thing, and we need depth, considering our starters.

[Parrish wants more chances to catch passes]

I remember a play some years ago by K.C., in which Hall caught a pass going right up the middle of the field - he caught it maybe ten to fifteen yards up field and just burned everyone for the touchdown. He seems that kind of player - used sparingly, but if used right, maybe in motion, or, as Welker is used, and especially if he's being covered by a third corner or linebacker, he could explode. I'd like to see him given the chance. Didn't we use a 2nd round pick on him? I'd say, even at that high a pick, his special teams play is worth it. Maybe not his salary, but getting that extra ten or fifteen yards a possession is a luxury we haven't yet capitalized on. Short fields this year should mean a lot more for us.

[Superbowl Champs in 2009?]

I don't recall our schedule offhand, but I know we've got some tough games. As to whether or not there are any Super teams in the nfl this year - I think there are a few potential ones: N.E., Giants, Philly, Pittsburgh, Indy, and maybe even San Diego. Those teams will be real tough. With all that is on the line this year for this organization, and with hungry players who have a lot to lose, and who played some good games against good teams last year - I think we do have a legitimate shot at making a wild card. I think we're better than Miami and the Jets. I think our Defense will surprise some people this year and end up around ten overall. It all comes down to Trent, IMO, and the O-line. If they get it done, we'll be playing in at least one playoff game.

[Marshawn bulked up a bit]

A 230 lb Lynch, who already is hard to take down, coupled with Freddy - maybe some two back sets - that'll be nice. I like Fred more around the middle of the field, but, man, when Lynch gets close to the end zone, he seems to will his way in there at times. I think it's a perfect fit for what we've got.

[I actually see the Bills this season as similiar to the 1999 Rams]

We could only hope for so prolific an offense. The things that would prevent it: they had a dome, Orlando Pace, a different type of coach, and a willingness to light it up. I can easily envision our offense being high scoring. Given our talent, with the right coach and the right plays called, we could be a very versatile unit. We've got runners who can pound it, and we've got runners who are quick, and who are excellent recievers. We've got good recievers. Our QB is efficient when he's hot. I think it comes down to knowing what kind of offense we want, having the players know it, and then becoming it. Thus far, I haven't seen a specific type of offense recognizable - we're not a smash mouth team, or a pass happy team. We, to date, in this decade, have seemed more like an offense that just doesn't want to turn the ball over. I'd like to see us be a tough, smash mouth run team, who, when the defense gears up to stop the run, lights it up down field. I'd have to say weather is a factor, too. In the late end of the season, as evidenced in last year's cleveland game, Edwards, to date, hasn't shown the ability to throw it too well. Again, I hope that changes. I'd be happy with any kind of scheme, so long as it works, and it uses the weapons we've got. I'll have to say, though, that our O.C. was new to that role last year. Maybe after having one year's experience, and knowing our players better, and they him, we'll be much better for it. I look forward to seeing what he can put together this year. It's easy to say I like what I've heard of him, as far as what he'd like to do offensively, but until he can make it happen... How about those Bengals teams in their glory? What did their offense look like - I don't remember.

[Chroise vs. da Fitz]

Does anyone here really like Hamdan? I might be missing something here, but I was terrified thinking of him ever going into a regular season game. What are his strengths and weaknesses? He looks tiny - like a shorter version of James Hardy, to me. Am I wrong, or is he career backup at best?

[Never too many CB's]

I know there are a ton of Bills fans who hate the Bills recent penchant for bringing in CB's, but, when one goes down, it is a relief to have another one or two to take their place. It isn't far fetched to say that in the NFL, a team should have four good corners, of starting caliber. I like that we have four or five corners that could start on other teams. McGee's injury doesn't mean a lot now, so long as it's not serious. The other guys get reps, and that is good, especially as the Bills like to use their DB's for the return game. In our division, it might be better to be able to stop the run soundly - that'd give us a better chance against the Jets and the Dolphins, but, if we make the playoffs, we'll be facing the likes of Pittsburgh, N.E., Indy, San Diego, most likely at least one or two if we're lucky. We need to be able to handle a good passing game.

[Pisa to decide between Bills and Chicago]

If you look at the positives and negatives, it's pretty close either way. He knows either system. My guess is that it is all about the money. He wants to come as close to what he was getting paid by the Rams as possible.