Two Bills Drive

‘“We didn’t come together and really say it, but it was implied,” Smoot said of shifting into another gear while Miller was suspended. “We knew it was next man up and we knew going into camp what we could be up front. We knew everybody would play their hearts out.”’

‘Even if the Seattle defensive line is strong, the team’s run defense leaves quite a bit to be desired. The Seahawks have allowed 1,023 rushing yards this season – fourth-worst in the NFL. They’re allowing teams 5.0 yards a carry, and they’ve given up nine runs of 20 or more yards. The Bills, meanwhile, are continuing to find ways to use all three of their running backs. “Our line’s opening up the holes for (our running backs), as well,” Allen said. “It’s vital for our offense in terms of being able to move guys, create running lanes, our play-action game is very much predicated on how well we can run the ball.”’

‘36.2% – How well has Geno Smith played? He ranks No. 1 in the NFL in passing, despite facing the 11th highest pressure rate in the league (36.2%). Seattle also has allowed the fifth most sacks in the league (20).’

‘Calling all Bills defensive linemen: Stop the Seattle run game and you’ll be able to work over a Seahawks offense that has allowed 20 sacks in seven games. The Seahawks are averaging 4.5 yards per carry and are tied for fourth with 10 touchdowns. Get Seattle into third-and-long, and the Bills’ defense will have an advantage; opponents are 11 of 40 vs. the Bills on third down when needing 8 or more yards. Offensively, the Bills should have success exploiting Seattle’s 28th-ranked rush defense. A lot of James Cook. Some Ray Davis. A little bit of Ty Johnson. Especially in rainy conditions, take the air out of the football and fly home 6-2. Bills, 34-27.’

‘A compelling case can be made for each, but I’d rank them this way: 1. Cooper, 2. Hopkins, 3. Adams. We’ve seen in just one game what Cooper means for the Bills’ offense. In addition to making big plays against the Titans, Cooper opened things up for the rest of the Bills’ receivers. It remains to be seen what Hopkins will do for the Chiefs, although they had a need that was similar to that of the Bills. Adams is a solid player, but it feels like the Jets’ season is too far gone for him to make the type of impact New York would need him to make.’

‘But seven weeks into 2024, the AFC East is the worst division in football. Only the Bills sport a winning record, and the aggregate record of the four teams is a woeful 10-17.’