A Few Thoughts about the Texans game, in no particular order

[Virgil]

One of the more well-known comments heard in the NFL is "On any given Given Sunday....", referring to the idea that any team can win any game at any time.  Fans see upsets all the time and this Sunday was no different as a NJ Jets team was able to pull a win out against the Titans.  However, sometimes Goliath is just plain Goliath and they smack David down with a force that makes them question if the NFL really the right career choice for them.  On Sunday, over the course of multiple plays, series, and quarters, Bills players showed Texans players what it's like to have another grown man simply dominate them.

 

1 - Edmunds - If you've been reading along, you would know that I'm not sold on Edmunds as our MLB of the future and do not believe he is worth top 10 money when his current deal runs out.  However, if Edmunds could replicate his performance he displayed against the Texans towards all future opponents, I would be willing to Venmo the money to the Pegulas myself.  It would be easy to call out the interception Edmunds had as his highlight, but that's not the play that stood out to me.  The Texans stacked the strong side along side a few additional receivers.  They called a toss to the halfback and mismatched blockers to Bills defenders.  While everyone else got swallowed up in the play, Edmunds watched the blocks unfold, picked an open lane, and broke through for a great tackle about 2 yards passed the line of scrimmage.  This is the kind of play recognition, quick thinking, and decisive action I've wanted to see from Edmunds since he was drafted here.   Additionally, when covering the middle of the field, he was able to get his hands on a few balls for deflections, versus tackling the player after the fact.  Edmunds was a difference maker on the field today, which is what your middle linebacker should be.

 

2 - The Replacements - Gene Hackman must've been wearing a McD mask, because a lot of guys stepped up today in lieu of many key starters.  Cam Lewis was all over the field today, including the backfield in run support.  Jaquan Johnson did an amazing job filling in for Poyer and possibly sealed the shutout with a late game interception.  Basham started on the first series, in what appeared to be a heavy line set, and even recorded his first NFL sack!  Ike was solid starting for Feliciano and I'd argue they had their best rushing game of the season (sorry Cody Ford).  Klein was solid filling in for Milano (please be back for the next two games) and had a tipped pass at the LOS, which led to an interception.  Overall, excellent job all around for guys making the most of their opportunities.

 

3 - Not Today - It can be difficult at times to feel a hit from the stands or grasp the speed at which a play can happen.  However, Ed Oliver had a stop in the backfield that left the crowd quiet.  Oliver shed his block and destroyed the halfback in the backfield so quick that even his momentum ran away scared.  This was the play many of us visually when we drafted Ed and he also played a solid overall game.  He showed great speed and relentlessness as he was chasing down plays all over the field.  With Star excelling beside him, Oliver was left to feast.

 

4 - Here's the selfless confession
Leading me back to war
Can we help that... our destinations
Are the ones we've been before

 

5 - Defensive Line - The game ball for this game has to go to the defensive line as all of them seemed to make standout plays.  Star had his second sack of the season after brushing his defender out of the way like a rag-doll.  Hughes and Addison played the edges beautifully and were able to break down a few plays where the Texans were trying some quick screen throws.  Groot was fairly silent, but was decent in coverage off the line.  If this line is able to play even a fraction of this good next week, our chances get incredibly better.

 

6 - Knox - I'm not sure how many more games people need to see from this kid, but Knox seems to really be taking advantage of his third year growth.  Knox was a monster in this game and wide open a lot (I'll get to that later).  His first TD showed some great run after the catch while his other was a great play execution.  Knox was again strong in run blocking and caught everything thrown his way.  The tape of this game may cause opposing teams to have to account for him, which can only help Allen and the rest of the receivers find better connections.  I look forward to seeing how this season ends for the Angry Run season winner.

 

7 - 3rd down/Red Zone - Again this season, the Bills are struggling to convert in the Red Zone and on 3rd downs.  What makes this more alarming is how successful they were just last season.  A lot of the drives don't have that rhythm to them that keep the opposing defense off balance or even make you confident as a fan.  The QB sneak, which turned into an outside run, was a beautiful play by Josh; as was the TD to Knox.  However, on the play before the Knox TD, Allen scrambled to his right (for what looked like a TD) and hesitated to throw to an open Knox earlier for a TD.  Something is missing in these situations and we are not going to be facing forgiving teams over the next two weeks.  We need 6 instead of 3 if we hope to take either game. 

 

8 - Deep Seam - The Texans played quite a bit of Cover 2 against the Bills and being in the fans showed me just how many deep passes we missed out on, leaving me with some concerns about Allen's downfield vision or confidence.  Sanders is a monster at finding open holes in the zone.  On a play which ended in a sack, Josh had Sanders wide open down the middle deep for a touchdown, but either never saw him or didn't want to pull the trigger.  To be clear, this isn't a situation where he was open for a quick second or Josh was scrambling.  Josh was clean in the pocket with no one near him and I'd say Sanders was open for a full second or two.  Even worse, Sanders did the same thing on the next play and was also missed.  This is another area that I'm concerned about going into next weeks game and about Josh's performance so far this season.

 

9 - Diggs - If you want to look at the impact a player can have on an opposing defense, look no further than the touchdown pass to Knox.  Diggs was wide open about 10 yards in front of Josh, whom pump-faked towards him.  On that pump fake, the entire secondary jumped towards Diggs, which allowed Knox to become that much more open.  That's what a true #1 can do for your team.  Even with that level of focus on him, he still managed to haul in a ton of passes and break the hundred yard receiving mark.  Diggs was able to get open deep and anywhere else he pleased in this game.  While it's been a slow start to the season, hopefully this was a good tune-up game for Diggs and Allen to get ready for the Chiefs next week.

 

10 - Stadium Experience - I've mentioned some of these things after the home opener, but I had to walk around and verify things.  After this terribly rainy game (twice in a month), I'm all in for a new stadium.  For starters, Allen was terrible in the rain in throwing a first pass interception and missing guys by 5-10 yards.  Even if the stadium is 5 years out, let's give Josh the following 10 years a home he can excel in.  Secondly, we need wider tunnels for people trying to walk around the stadium to not have to push their way through people waiting in line for food.  With so many people trying to take cover from the rain, the tunnels were a nightmare.  Lastly, and by far my biggest issue, is the food selection, availability, and signage.  There are signs for food above almost every concession stand that aren't actually sold there.  The beer area had 4 options, and none of them were Labatt Blue Light.  I couldn't get an italian sausage anywhere.  I had to walk ten sections down to get pizza logs and they were sold out by halftime.   Most of the concession stands have half of their menu covered up, because the selection has been reduced so much.  From what I could tell, fan food options are hot dogs (everywhere), pretzels (everywhere) chicken tenders (50%), pizza (50%), buffalo chicken logs (25%) pizza logs (20%), wings (5%), and then basic snacks.  I have never seen such poor signage, availability, and stock in my entire history of going to stadiums for any sport or team.  It's an absolute joke. 

 

 

We are on to the hardest part of our schedule and I can't say I feel as confident as everyone else is.  While our defensive line has been good, it was fairly neutralized by Washington.  Allen was good against Washington, but not great against anyone else.  Our ability to convert on 3rd down or in the red zone is huge opportunity.  We need this game against the Chiefs, not only for the home field advantage, but to prove to our guys that they can beat them.  They are our biggest mental obstacle and all that stands in the way from fully believing we can win the whole damn thing.  Josh needs to be on, the defense needs to swarm, McD needs to get big brother Andy out of his head, and Daboll needs to have some plays dialed up.  Mafia.....Mount Up!

 

Go Bills!!!

Edited October 4, 2021 by Virgil

[saundena]

Always enjoy your comments (although the lyrics/quotes are always lost on me)

 

Your David and Goliath is very true.  Sometimes, Goliath simply pulverizes David.

 

With respect to 8 - deep seam, I noticed this too and I wonder if any of Josh's supposed hesitation on those through might be due to the weather at yesterday's game?  It was very wet and he seemed to be throwing high all day, like it was sipping out of his hand a spit second too early.

 

The INT... to me that seemed like a miscommunication.  

 

I'm very happy with Edmonds

Edited October 4, 2021 by saundena

[Virgil]

1 minute ago, saundena said:

Always enjoy your comments. with respect to 8 - deep seam, I wonder if any of Josh's supposed hesitation on those through might be due to the weather at yesterday's game?  It was very wet and he seemed to be throwing high all day, like it was sipping out of his hand a spit second too early.

 

The INT... to me that seemed like a miscommunication.  

 

It was dry on those plays and he previously made some deeper attempts. You could be right, but I don't feel like this was the case here.

[Coach Tuesday]

Overall pretty good list but your omission of Spencer Brown is notable.  Potentially a huge story line going forward.

[Virgil]

1 minute ago, Coach Tuesday said:

Overall pretty good list but your omission of Spencer Brown is notable.  Potentially a huge story line going forward.

 

Honestly, the offensive line was tough to keep track of at times from the stands.  I read a lot about things he did well after the game, but it would have been me relaying things second hand

[Gugny]

27 minutes ago, Virgil said:

 

 

What took so long?  I'm noticing a trend. 

[Warcodered]

14 minutes ago, saundena said:

Your David and Goliath is very true.  Sometimes, Goliath simply pulverizes David.

Yeah you don't hear about all the guys before David that got wrecked.

[Virgil]

2 minutes ago, Gugny said:

 

What took so long?  I'm noticing a trend. 

 

I'm trying to be consistent with when I put these out.  I used to rush for Sunday evenings, but with them getting prime time games and me attending more, Monday is an easier commitment.

 

Also, I never hear you complaining.

[Ethan in Cleveland]

Good write up

1. Agree with everything you said about Edmunds including the play you highlighted.

1a. Star is playing his best football. 

2. On the Josh scramble for the pylon, it was hard to tell how open Knox was.  It looked like he was wide open but but there may have been a defender trailing him that we could not see

3. Diggs is just a flat out super-star. Not as physically dominant as some of the top tier WRs's like Hopkins and Julio Jones but he and Cooper Kupp are probably the best route runners in the league.  He has great hands as well.

4.  Knox is a star in the making.  Most physically gifted TE they have had in three decades - maybe ever.  He can get deep. He can get separation. He runs well after the catch and he makes difficult catches. Drops seem to be getting better.  He is at best an average blocker but his work in the passing game makes up for that.

5. Stadium experience - great points.  I don't know how many on this board have a chance to go elsewhere.  The food and drink options in the club level at Highmark pale in comparison to many other places.  And the general admission food options and tunnel issues are awful.  Now that said, there are worse out there too.  Oakland was the worst experience ever.  Chicago was not much better.  Green bay was disappointing too(the Milwaukie Baseball stadium is amazing though) I've not been to Dallas or Vegas yet, so I can't compare to them all, but the top of the line for me was Arizona club.  KC has really good food too.  

 

 

 

[Gugny]

Just now, Virgil said:

 

I'm trying to be consistent with when I put these out.  I used to rush for Sunday evenings, but with them getting prime time games and me attending more, Monday is an easier commitment.

 

Also, I never hear you complaining.

 

I just thought you might be sticking your fingers where they don't belong like that Urban Meyer fella.

[Albany,n.y.]

I'm worried that if, after yesterday,  the Bills don't add Cam to the 53, he'll get signed by another team.  Then the question is who do you cut in order to get him on the 53.  My choice is Ford.  

[Ethan in Cleveland]

11 minutes ago, Coach Tuesday said:

Overall pretty good list but your omission of Spencer Brown is notable.  Potentially a huge story line going forward.

Good call out.  Getting a 3rd round pick to be a capable rookie RT could be huge.  If Williams can play RG at a decent level the starting 5 may be quite  abit better than what they started the year with.  

[Mango]

Great write up per usual. 

Re: Stadium experience, a few things: 

 

-I am unsure how a different open stadium would help Allen in the rain? 

- Why would different cement and rebar effect where Labatt Blue is sold and the stadium having more than just delivered pizza? This is relatively new and firmly falls on the Pegula's and/or Delaware North. The stadium is having some structural issues and needs to be replaced. But lets not confuse poor hospitality management with new construction. That one falls firmly on the organization no matter what building they are in. I am rarely a conspiracy theorist, but I think this is on purpose from the Pegula's. My tinfoil hat says that they are trying to downgrade the gameday experience to garner more support for a new stadium and/or get more money from the state/county. 

[J-Bo]

Always a great analysis and game breakdown...keep up the great work Virgil! Enjoy it sooooo much!

[billsfan1959]

39 minutes ago, Virgil said:

The Texans played quite a bit of Cover 2 against the Bills and being in the fans showed me just how many deep passes we missed out on, leaving me with some concerns about Allen's downfield vision or confidence.  Sanders is a monster at finding open holes in the zone.On a play which ended in a sack, Josh had Sanders wide open down the middle deep for a touchdown, but either never saw him or didn't want to pull the trigger.  To be clear, this isn't a situation where he was open for a quick second or Josh was scrambling.  Josh was clean in the pocket with no one near him and I'd say Sanders was open for a full second or two.  Even worse, Sanders did the same thing on the next play and was also missed.  This is another area that I'm concerned about going into next weeks game and about Josh's performance so far this season.

 

I'm not sure how many deep passes were missed out on and the All-22 isn't out yet. I'm not really sure not seeing open receivers deep is any kind of an issue as much as it is a matter read progressions, line breakdowns, etc. For example, on the play in which Allen was sacked, Sanders was going deep to Allen's left. Allen started his progression on the right side of the field moving to the left. I believe he did see Sanders; however, by the time he looked to the left side of the field and started to set up, Mercilus was on him for the sack. The very next play he did hit Sanders over the middle.

 

[SlimShady'sSpaceForce]

38 minutes ago, Virgil said:

 

I'm trying to be consistent with when I put these out.  I used to rush for Sunday evenings, but with them getting prime time games and me attending more, Monday is an easier commitment.

 

Also, I never hear you complaining.

I think you just did 

[Over 29 years of fanhood]

40 minutes ago, Albany,n.y. said:

I'm worried that if, after yesterday,  the Bills don't add Cam to the 53, he'll get signed by another team.  Then the question is who do you cut in order to get him on the 53.  My choice is Ford.  

Cody isn’t getting cut. 

[LabattBlue]

The concession stand issue is why Delaware North shouldn’t have the contract.   Let local restaurants fill the entire concession area.  Think about a food truck festival without the trucks.  
 

Did I say Delaware North sucks, and the same goes for the crap they provide at Key Bank Center. 
 

👎👎👎

[Ed_Formerly_of_Roch]

1 hour ago, Virgil said:

One of the more well-known comments heard in the NFL is "On any given Given Sunday....", referring to the idea that any team can win any game at any time.  Fans see upsets all the time and this Sunday was no different as a NJ Jets team was able to pull a win out against the Titans.  However, sometimes Goliath is just plain Goliath and they smack David down with a force that makes them question if the NFL really the right career choice for them.  On Sunday, over the course of multiple plays, series, and quarters, Bills players showed Texans players what it's like to have another grown man simply dominate them.

 

1 - Edmunds - If you've been reading along, you would know that I'm not sold on Edmunds as our MLB of the future and do not believe he is worth top 10 money when his current deal runs out.  However, if Edmunds could replicate his performance he displayed against the Texans towards all future opponents, I would be willing to Venmo the money to the Pegulas myself.  It would be easy to call out the interception Edmunds had as his highlight, but that's not the play that stood out to me.  The Texans stacked the strong side along side a few additional receivers.  They called a toss to the halfback and mismatched blockers to Bills defenders.  While everyone else got swallowed up in the play, Edmunds watched the blocks unfold, picked an open lane, and broke through for a great tackle about 2 yards passed the line of scrimmage.  This is the kind of play recognition, quick thinking, and decisive action I've wanted to see from Edmunds since he was drafted here.   Additionally, when covering the middle of the field, he was able to get his hands on a few balls for deflections, versus tackling the player after the fact.  Edmunds was a difference maker on the field today, which is what your middle linebacker should be.

 

2 - The Replacements - Gene Hackman must've been wearing a McD mask, because a lot of guys stepped up today in lieu of many key starters.  Cam Lewis was all over the field today, including the backfield in run support.  Jaquan Johnson did an amazing job filling in for Poyer and possibly sealed the shutout with a late game interception.  Basham started on the first series, in what appeared to be a heavy line set, and even recorded his first NFL sack!  Ike was solid starting for Feliciano and I'd argue they had their best rushing game of the season (sorry Cody Ford).  Klein was solid filling in for Milano (please be back for the next two games) and had a tipped pass at the LOS, which led to an interception.  Overall, excellent job all around for guys making the most of their opportunities.

 

3 - Not Today - It can be difficult at times to feel a hit from the stands or grasp the speed at which a play can happen.  However, Ed Oliver had a stop in the backfield that left the crowd quiet.  Oliver shed his block and destroyed the halfback in the backfield so quick that even his momentum ran away scared.  This was the play many of us visually when we drafted Ed and he also played a solid overall game.  He showed great speed and relentlessness as he was chasing down plays all over the field.  With Star excelling beside him, Oliver was left to feast.

 

4 - Here's the selfless confession
Leading me back to war
Can we help that... our destinations
Are the ones we've been before

 

5 - Defensive Line - The game ball for this game has to go to the defensive line as all of them seemed to make standout plays.  Star had his first sack of the season after brushing his defender out of the way like a rag-doll.  Hughes and Addison played the edges beautifully and were able to break down a few plays where the Texans were trying some quick screen throws.  Groot was fairly silent, but was decent in coverage off the line.  If this line is able to play even a fraction of this good next week, our chances get incredibly better.

 

6 - Knox - I'm not sure how many more games people need to see from this kid, but Knox seems to really be taking advantage of his third year growth.  Knox was a monster in this game and wide open a lot (I'll get to that later).  His first TD showed some great run after the catch while his other was a great play execution.  Knox was again strong in run blocking and caught everything thrown his way.  The tape of this game may cause opposing teams to have to account for him, which can only help Allen and the rest of the receivers find better connections.  I look forward to seeing how this season ends for the Angry Run season winner.

 

7 - 3rd down/Red Zone - Again this season, the Bills are struggling to convert in the Red Zone and on 3rd downs.  What makes this more alarming is how successful they were just last season.  A lot of the drives don't have that rhythm to them that keep the opposing defense off balance or even make you confident as a fan.  The QB sneak, which turned into an outside run, was a beautiful play by Josh; as was the TD to Knox.  However, on the play before the Knox TD, Allen scrambled to his right (for what looked like a TD) and hesitated to throw to an open Knox earlier for a TD.  Something is missing in these situations and we are not going to be facing forgiving teams over the next two weeks.  We need 6 instead of 3 if we hope to take either game. 

 

8 - Deep Seam - The Texans played quite a bit of Cover 2 against the Bills and being in the fans showed me just how many deep passes we missed out on, leaving me with some concerns about Allen's downfield vision or confidence.  Sanders is a monster at finding open holes in the zone.  On a play which ended in a sack, Josh had Sanders wide open down the middle deep for a touchdown, but either never saw him or didn't want to pull the trigger.  To be clear, this isn't a situation where he was open for a quick second or Josh was scrambling.  Josh was clean in the pocket with no one near him and I'd say Sanders was open for a full second or two.  Even worse, Sanders did the same thing on the next play and was also missed.  This is another area that I'm concerned about going into next weeks game and about Josh's performance so far this season.

 

9 - Diggs - If you want to look at the impact a player can have on an opposing defense, look no further than the touchdown pass to Knox.  Diggs was wide open about 10 yards in front of Josh, whom pump-faked towards him.  On that pump fake, the entire secondary jumped towards Diggs, which allowed Knox to become that much more open.  That's what a true #1 can do for your team.  Even with that level of focus on him, he still managed to haul in a ton of passes and break the hundred yard receiving mark.  Diggs was able to get open deep and anywhere else he pleased in this game.  While it's been a slow start to the season, hopefully this was a good tune-up game for Diggs and Allen to get ready for the Chiefs next week.

 

10 - Stadium Experience - I've mentioned some of these things after the home opener, but I had to walk around and verify things.  After this terribly rainy game (twice in a month), I'm all in for a new stadium.  For starters, Allen was terrible in the rain in throwing a first pass interception and missing guys by 5-10 yards.  Even if the stadium is 5 years out, let's give Josh the following 10 years a home he can excel in.  Secondly, we need wider tunnels for people trying to walk around the stadium to not have to push their way through people waiting in line for food.  With so many people trying to take cover from the rain, the tunnels were a nightmare.  Lastly, and by far my biggest issue, is the food selection, availability, and signage.  There are signs for food above almost every concession stand that aren't actually sold there.  The beer area had 4 options, and none of them were Labatt Blue Light.  I couldn't get an italian sausage anywhere.  I had to walk ten sections down to get pizza logs and they were sold out by halftime.   Most of the concession stands have half of their menu covered up, because the selection has been reduced so much.  From what I could tell, fan food options are hot dogs (everywhere), pretzels (everywhere) chicken tenders (50%), pizza (50%), buffalo chicken logs (25%) pizza logs (20%), wings (5%), and then basic snacks.  I have never seen such poor signage, availability, and stock in my entire history of going to stadiums for any sport or team.  It's an absolute joke. 

 

 

We are on to the hardest part of our schedule and I can't say I feel as confident as everyone else is.  While our defensive line has been good, it was fairly neutralized by Washington.  Allen was good against Washington, but not great against anyone else.  Our ability to convert on 3rd down or in the red zone is huge opportunity.  We need this game against the Chiefs, not only for the home field advantage, but to prove to our guys that they can beat them.  They are our biggest mental obstacle and all that stands in the way from fully believing we can win the whole damn thing.  Josh needs to be on, the defense needs to swarm, McD needs to get big brother Andy out of his head, and Daboll needs to have some plays dialed up.  Mafia.....Mount Up!

 

Go Bills!!!

 

Good write up!  WRT

 

1  I wonder if Edmunds is just going to be one of these guys where if he has an open lane, he can wreck havoc, but not very good in "hand to hand combat"  May be due to him being so big and long, he loses balance and leverage??

 

5  Thought Star was credited with a sack last week?

 

6  Been saying all along  Knox has to many assets that can't be taught, speed, size, athleticism that you don't want to give up on him too soon.  It may be paying off this year, at least so far.

 

 

Some additional comments by me

 

Allen needs to stop the hard count.  It's gotten old and not fooling the other team anymore, (only Beasley)  Save it for when really needed in crucial situation.

 

On the incomplete to Moss at goal line.  Barber commented that had Allen waited a split second longer for Moss to turn, he'd have caught it.  From my view I felt if Allen did wait the defender was cutting down the angle and might have broke up the pass of it completed Moss would have run out of room to turn it up field.  My take was Allen threw it at the correct time, Moss needs to learn to turn earlier on them.

 

On potential Allen TD run that McD challenged,  those type of spot calls rarely are ever overturned so the odds of McD winning challenge were very low.  However Allen and rest of offense wasted so much time throwing their arm up wanting McD to challenge, there was no time left to run next play so only choice was TO or challenge which effectively gives you a TO.  The only downside is you only have one challenge left, but that late in game and with score as it was, wasn't likely to matter!

 

Onto to KC!!

[BearNorth]

39 minutes ago, Mango said:

Great write up per usual. 

Re: Stadium experience, a few things: 

 

-I am unsure how a different open stadium would help Allen in the rain? 

- Why would different cement and rebar effect where Labatt Blue is sold and the stadium having more than just delivered pizza? This is relatively new and firmly falls on the Pegula's and/or Delaware North. The stadium is having some structural issues and needs to be replaced. But lets not confuse poor hospitality management with new construction. That one falls firmly on the organization no matter what building they are in. I am rarely a conspiracy theorist, but I think this is on purpose from the Pegula's. My tinfoil hat says that they are trying to downgrade the gameday experience to garner more support for a new stadium and/or get more money from the state/county. 

Food service all over the country is having problems, 1.) finding workers, 2.) issues with the supply chain.  Suspect that may be also what's happening. 

6 minutes ago, BTB said:

The concession stand issue is why Delaware North shouldn’t have the contract.   Let local restaurants fill the entire concession area.  Think about a food truck festival without the trucks.  
 

Did I say Delaware North sucks, and the same goes for the crap they provide at Key Bank Center. 
 

👎👎👎

Wonder what the governor, who will be negotiating the stadium deal thinks about Delaware North???

 

[RiotAct]

to your final point, my dad and I were in 102 Row 1 and the water was pooling considerably at our feet by the start of the game.  Same thing on the tan-colored “warning track” at field level.

[Draconator]

59 minutes ago, Virgil said:

Also, I never hear you complaining.

Wait for it

[WhoTom]

13 minutes ago, Ed_Formerly_of_Roch said:

Allen needs to stop the hard count.  It's gotten old and not fooling the other team anymore, (only Beasley)  Save it for when really needed in crucial situation.

 

He's not always doing it to draw the D off-sides. Sometimes it's part of reading the defense - he does it to look for a "tell" in the D's movements. 

[John from Riverside]

These past two shut out games have been like a Ham Sandwich

 

Am I doing this right?

[Augie]

7 hours ago, Coach Tuesday said:

Overall pretty good list but your omission of Spencer Brown is notable.  Potentially a huge story line going forward.

 

I am VERY excited about what Spencer Brown could become, and what Dawson Know has become.  

 

I think the rebuild of our OLine has started with Brown. More to come.

 

Also, When Knox was having his issues with the dropsies, I endured it thinking it was more concentration than bad hands because he could make the difficult catches. I’ve always loved his ceiling and now he’s showing us what he’s capable of becoming. 

 

 

.

Edited October 5, 2021 by Augie

[freddyjj]

@Augie

 

You can say that again.  

 

Monday Happy Hour?

[GoBills808]

6 minutes ago, Augie said:

 

I am VERY excited about what Spencer Brown could become, and what Dawson Know has become.  

 

I think the rebuild of our OLine has started with Brown. More to come. Also, When Knox was having his issues with the dropsies, I endured it thinking it was more concentration than bad hands because he could make the difficult catches. I’ve always loved his ceiling and now he’s showing us what he’s capable of becoming. 

 

I am VERY excited about what Spencer Brown could become, and what Dawson Know has become.  

 

I think the rebuild of our OLine has started with Brown. More to come. Also, When Knox was having his issues with the dropsies, I endured it thinking it was more concentration than bad hands because he could make the difficult catches. I’ve always loved his ceiling and now he’s showing us what he’s capable of becoming. 

 

I am VERY excited about what Spencer Brown could become, and what Dawson Know has become.  

 

I think the rebuild of our OLine has started with Brown. More to come. Also, When Knox was having his issues with the dropsies, I endured it thinking it was more concentration than bad hands because he could make the difficult catches. I’ve always loved his ceiling and now he’s showing us what he’s capable of becoming. 

 

I am VERY excited about what Spencer Brown could become, and what Dawson Know has become.  

 

I think the rebuild of our OLine has started with Brown. More to come. Also, when Knox was having his issues with the dropsies, I endured it thinking it was more concentration than bad hands because he could make the difficult catches. I’ve always loved his ceiling and now he’s showing us what he’s capable of becoming. 

You can say that again

1 minute ago, freddyjj said:

@Augie

 

You can say that again.  

 

Monday Happy Hour?

😂😂dammit I’m late

 

[CSBill]

8 minutes ago, Augie said:

 

I am VERY excited about what Spencer Brown could become, and what Dawson Know has become.  

 

I think the rebuild of our OLine has started with Brown. More to come. Also, When Knox was having his issues with the dropsies, I endured it thinking it was more concentration than bad hands because he could make the difficult catches. I’ve always loved his ceiling and now he’s showing us what he’s capable of becoming. 

 

I am VERY excited about what Spencer Brown could become, and what Dawson Know has become.  

 

I think the rebuild of our OLine has started with Brown. More to come. Also, When Knox was having his issues with the dropsies, I endured it thinking it was more concentration than bad hands because he could make the difficult catches. I’ve always loved his ceiling and now he’s showing us what he’s capable of becoming. 

 

I am VERY excited about what Spencer Brown could become, and what Dawson Know has become.  

 

I think the rebuild of our OLine has started with Brown. More to come. Also, When Knox was having his issues with the dropsies, I endured it thinking it was more concentration than bad hands because he could make the difficult catches. I’ve always loved his ceiling and now he’s showing us what he’s capable of becoming. 

 

I am VERY excited about what Spencer Brown could become, and what Dawson Know has become.  

 

I think the rebuild of our OLine has started with Brown. More to come. Also, when Knox was having his issues with the dropsies, I endured it thinking it was more concentration than bad hands because he could make the difficult catches. I’ve always loved his ceiling and now he’s showing us what he’s capable of becoming. 

 
what are you trying to say?

[Augie]

2 minutes ago, freddyjj said:

@Augie

 

You can say that again.  

 

Monday Happy Hour?

One of those times where you hit submit and it doesn’t appear to go, again and again. 

 

 

And again.

 

 

And again.    🤷‍♀️

2 minutes ago, GoBills808 said:

You can say that again

😂😂dammit I’m late

 

 

Don’t feel bad. This is how you know I REALLY mean it! 

[billsfan89]

The Bills really just took care of business against the Texans. The only minor complaint is that the Bills offense did have some redzone struggles but they completely closed the door in the second half and consistently moved the ball all game. The defense put on one of the best performances you will see and the special teams was solid. Even the backups played well when they got plenty of garbage time. They pile up to 3-1 going into a tough two game stretch. Hopefully they can get past KC and really establish that they can beat a quality team and not just beat up on the mid level or lower teams. 

[TheBrownBear]

Good stuff as always and an interesting perspective on Allen in point #8.  Seems like it can be "all or none" with Josh sometimes.

[gdabillsfan]

Nice write up.

Ok, I guess I'll  add my thoughts too.

 

On a dreary, rainy, early fall day with the Texans in Buffalo to play the Bills the scene was set.

The oddsmakers had the Texans +17.5 points, and truly were not giving them any chance. If I were still betting on football, I probably would of taken the Texans and the points, even though I have a long standing rule to never bet against the Bills.

Considering that the weather was so bad, I didn't think the Bills would be able to score a ton of points (I was wrong).

I had watched the Thursday night game against the Panthers(who I consider to be a decent team this year), and Houston seemed to hold there own in the 1st half, with the the score being 7 - 6 at  halftime. Houston's D line played well, they  had a strip sack on Darnold, and the whole team played them tough overall. On offense the rookie QB Mills looked decent enough, and found Cooks numerous times for over 100 yds on the game.

Well the Oddsmakers were right.

 

Despite the weather having its way pouring sheets of rain down, and affecting both teams at the beginning, the Bills D just dominated, and by halftime it was pretty much all over for the Texans. (Even though Buffalo was only up 16 - 0)

 

When I say the defense dominated, it is kind of an understatement, but I have run out of superlatives to describe what I am seeing this year from them.

Despite being down 2 starters in the secondary, and losing Milano to a hammy midway , they never missed a beat. Edmonds (who I don't think has played badly this year, just not spectacularly) had that spectacular game . His excellent coverage in the middle led to his interception, while Milano put the pressure on the rookie QB to rush the throw.

 

When Milano went out of the game,  the next man up (Klein) filled in admiralbly with a tip, (which led to Hyde's interception), and a fumble recovery, when Edmonds (again) tied up the receiver, and Cam Lewis punched the ball out.  BTW, Cam Lewis played very well after being elevated from the PS for the game, when T. Johnson was ruled out. (Might be tough to sneak him back on the PS, in case a CB needy team covets him) Props to J Johnson (the other Bill's Johnson), who also played well, and added an interception later .

Even Matakevich got in on the fun in garbage time with a pick of his own.

Star and Boogie had sacks, and the pressure was decent all day, pushing Mills to make bad decisions.

 

As toJosh,

after starting out the game with an interception on a throw that sailed over Digg's head (in the pouring rain), and was picked off by #1 of the Texans, Allen settled down and had a decent, albeit mediocre game. He made some great throws and missed some too. I'll accept these type games from him as long as we won, because that is all that truly will be remembered in the end, is the W.

I thought both Moss and Singletary were  good in the running game. They both quickly and decisively hit the holes today. Moss is shifty, and never gives up. Props to 79 Spencer Brown ,the man mountain, for throwing him forward for extra yards at the end of the one run. Singletary had more yds total, but also found the doghouse for a bit with the fumble, he redeemed himself later in the game with timely runs (he had a great run called back because of a hold on Williams). Allen gets props for his rushes too, especially the sneak he turned up outside for the big gain. I loved the stiff arm as he was going out of bounds, he tackled the tackler Lol.

All told, I believe they finished with around 200 yards rushing total as a team.

The reshuffled oline had their struggles, mostly on the left side, with heavy pressure coming from that side early in the game. Dawkins whiffed a couple times on his man. although Williams didn't look great either at right guard(see penalty on Singletarys rush above),and he  was shaky in pass pro again early in the game. They seamed to settle in as the game went on though. Brown looked ok at right tackle. The question is what becomes of Cody Ford, will he be back at right guard?, or did Williams do enough to unseat him. All told they had Allen running around way too much, it's amazing he made such a good throw to Diggs down the sideline earlier in the game, while scrambling and leaping in the air.

Diggs had his breakout game of the young season, with Allen connecting with him numerous times for over 100 yds, and on a couple of beautiful long throws to boot. Sanders had good day as well and had a few nice receptions. Although Beasley (2 receptions on 2 targets) and Davis (0 for 1) were relatively quiet, Dawson Knox had 5 receptions on 8 targets and 2 TDs, and had some monster blocks in the game.( Err....aren't you glad we didn't trade for "you know who" now. I know I am)

 

Knox even got # 1(another Johnson) on the Texans to lose his composure and draw a penalty for unsportsman like conduct. Knox had tackled him on the sidelines on the play after #1 thought he had picked up a fumble on a supposed Diggs catch (however it was ruled an incompletion as the ball had hit the ground,so no fumble) . # 1 was pissed at Knox because he shoved him hard out of bounds on the tackle. # 1  then tried to get western with knox, and pushed him down when the play was over, (nice flop by knox),and the Zebra threw the flag.

However as karma will have it , that started a series of bad plays by the Bills though. The very next play Diggs did fumble on a sweep, and the Bills recovered. The play after that Allen nearly had a pass intercepted, and instead of getting in the end zone the Bills had to settle for the field goal. Props to Bass on FGs and the extra points, he made them all.

 

BTW, # 1 seemed like the best, and most active player on the Texans D, too bad he lost his mind on that play, because I believe he is a good player and played well for them otherwise.

 

Anyway,

 

by the end of the 3rd quarter,the Bills had the game sewed up, the score was 19 - 0, and the Texans were done. The Bills scored 2 more TDs in the 4th and then sent in the 2nd string with 10 minutes or so left to score 1 more, and the Texans at that point were probably feeling pretty much like the folks in the lyrics of the old Carpenters song:

Rainy Days and Mondays

"Talkin' to myself and feelin' old

Sometimes I'd like to quit

Nothing ever seems to fit

Hangin' around

Nothing's to do but frown

Rainy Days and Mondays

(after a devastating loss)

always get me down

 

On to Kansas City, go Bills!

[msw2112]

Does anyone know of the Texans #1 (mentioned in the previous post), who is named Lonnie Johnson Jr., is the son of former Bills TE Lonnie Johnson?  I did some searches online and couldn't find anything.  Just curious.  You'd think that the TV crew would have brought it up, but I'm not sure that Beth Mowins or Tiki Barber have ever heard of the Lonnie Johnson that played for the Bills.

[Michael1962]

Thanks for the write up as usual.  I am not sure where to put this but I find it interesting that when covering TB vs NE last night the rain was a significant factor (as to why he didn't perform better) while JA and crew put up 40 in similar conditions and nothing is mentioned.  Maybe it is just my homerism/inferiority complex. 

[sullim4]

1 hour ago, Mango said:

- Why would different cement and rebar effect where Labatt Blue is sold and the stadium having more than just delivered pizza? This is relatively new and firmly falls on the Pegula's and/or Delaware North.

 

This may or may not be true.  I will guess that the available kitchen space at Highmark is significantly more limited than it is in more modern stadiums.  My impression of the Bills' operation is that a majority of the food is heat-and-eat (pizza logs, hot dogs, pretzels, etc), pre-packaged, or is prepared offsite (such as the pizza).  Very little cooking, if any, actually happens at the stadium.

 

Contrast that experience to nearly every other stadium in the NFL, where you can get quality, fresh food prepared on site at equally outrageous prices.  If I'm going to spend that kind of money on ballpark food, I at least want something besides a hot dog or a slice of pizza made hours ago that has been sitting in an insulated container.

[gdabillsfan]

10 minutes ago, msw2112 said:

Does anyone know of the Texans #1 (mentioned in the previous post), who is named Lonnie Johnson Jr., is the son of former Bills TE Lonnie Johnson?  I did some searches online and couldn't find anything.  Just curious.  You'd think that the TV crew would have brought it up, but I'm not sure that Beth Mowins or Tiki Barber have ever heard of the Lonnie Johnson that played for the Bills.

I don't think so, it looks like his dad was the inventor of the Super soaker (big squirt gun) though, which ironically, I find to be more amusing than being the tight ends kid. 😆

[Rockinon]

Nice write up, but that was Star's second sack of the season.

[Virgil]

7 minutes ago, sullim4 said:

 

This may or may not be true.  I will guess that the available kitchen space at Highmark is significantly more limited than it is in more modern stadiums.  My impression of the Bills' operation is that a majority of the food is heat-and-eat (pizza logs, hot dogs, pretzels, etc), pre-packaged, or is prepared offsite (such as the pizza).  Very little cooking, if any, actually happens at the stadium.

 

Contrast that experience to nearly every other stadium in the NFL, where you can get quality, fresh food prepared on site at equally outrageous prices.  If I'm going to spend that kind of money on ballpark food, I at least want something besides a hot dog or a slice of pizza made hours ago that has been sitting in an insulated container.

I would agree with this if they didn’t have a better selection before.  

[LeGOATski]

You disrespected Star. 

[Mango]

1 minute ago, sullim4 said:

 

This may or may not be true.  I will guess that the available kitchen space at Highmark is significantly more limited than it is in more modern stadiums.  My impression of the Bills' operation is that a majority of the food is heat-and-eat (pizza logs, hot dogs, pretzels, etc), pre-packaged, or is prepared offsite (such as the pizza).  Very little cooking, if any, actually happens at the stadium.

 

Contrast that experience to nearly every other stadium in the NFL, where you can get quality, fresh food prepared on site at equally outrageous prices.  If I'm going to spend that kind of money on ballpark food, I at least want something besides a hot dog or a slice of pizza made hours ago that has been sitting in an insulated container.

 

Right, I get it, to a certain extent. But I have also gotten a beef on weck, italian sausage, cheeseburgers, etc. at The Ralph. Could a new stadium provide more room for meal prep? Sure, possibly. 

But lets not act like we have never gotten better selection at the Ralph before. Or that the best fix is to build a $1.5B stadium.

Not that you or Virgil is saying that specifically, but you have both eluded or stated that a new stadium would alleviate this issue, and neither mentioned much of another option or ask to resolve it. Which is exactly why it gives me pause. This is a relatively new or worse problem that wasn't happening like this in years past. As a long time food service worker, and somebody who relies on a lot of logistics everyday at work, I totally get it. It is especially tough out there at the moment for drivers and low wage workers. But I refuse to believe that La Nova's can pump out pizza for 70k fans, but the Bills cannot find a way to get any more food options in the building. La Nova's are the only ones who can prep food for the stadium in 2021? 

2 minutes ago, Virgil said:

I would agree with this if they didn’t have a better selection before.  

 

Sorta of mentioned you in the above unintentionally. I think we are on similar pages here. 

Thanks for your work here!