Two Bills Drive

‘“Expectations are still there. There’s not as much pressure, though. I had more of an open mindset going into today. I know what the preseason is like now. Not that it doesn’t matter, because it definitely does, but I know the reps mean more than the result.”’

‘Tyrell Shavers, wide receiver: A low ankle sprain early in training camp didn’t stifle Shavers’ momentum. He’s been among the Bills’ most impressive weapons in practice, and his momentum continued Saturday with his 58-yard catch to set up Caden Davis’ 24-yard field goal that cut the Giants’ lead to 16-10 with 4 seconds left in the second quarter.’

‘Allen has partnered with New Era since his rookie year in 2018 and shoots ad campaigns every year with the company. But this elevates his role, making him more than just a company spokesperson.’

‘A Kids Day crowd of 69,835 sweated through a real-feel temperature of 89 degrees at kickoff. The offense, led by quarterback Mitch Trubisky, didn’t give them much to cheer about on its first two series, gaining just one first down in the first quarter.’

‘ It’s all informed the way Shavers thinks now, amid this pressing run to do something he hasn’t done yet: make a Week 1 roster. And when Buffalo’s pre-preseason depth chart came out Tuesday, where Shavers was slotted as a second-string receiver, this may finally be the year.’

‘Joey Bosa had a promising debut. After going through a lengthy solo workout on the field before the game, there was some question as to whether veteran edge rusher Joey Bosa would play in the Bills’ first exhibition. That question was answered on the team’s first defensive series, as Bosa was part of a defensive line that also included Ed Oliver and DaQuan Jones at tackle and Greg Rousseau at the opposite edge rusher. Bosa put together a few strong rushes against Giants quarterback Russell Wilson on the game’s first drive, which was a promising sign.’

‘Big/medium/no deal? Big deal … and getting bigger by the day. If this keeps going, the Bills might have to sign another tailback to get through camp because they don’t want to overtax Ray Davis and Ty Johnson. There should be moderate concern if Cook doesn’t practice until Week 1 – running back is a rhythm/conditioning position, so who says he won’t be ready for full duty against Baltimore? Both sides are clearly dug in on their stances and they are standing miles apart.’

‘The optics of the injury situation aren’t good for the strength and conditioning staff, but there are a few factors at play here, in my mind. The biggest of those is an abundance of caution. How many of these injured players would be able to gut through their ailments if this were the regular season? My guess is the list would not be as long as it is now. Knowing there are 17 regular-season games to play, and hopefully more in the playoffs, means it makes sense to give players the necessary time to heal right now. As McDermott mentioned, it’s more important to be healthy in January than it is July and August.’

‘But before contacting anyone on the wait-list, representing the potential for almost 20,000 seats, the Bills will put together an effort to reach out one last time to all fans who have previously said no to make sure they don’t miss out or harbor ill feelings toward the team about the process.’