‘Yesterday, Belichick said he has had to dramatically scale back the scope of his defensive scheme because his players weren’t picking it up.’
BillsBeat - December 14, 2000
Patriots continuing to simplify defense
‘…Bill Belichick has been disturbed, disappointed and dumbstruck that too often this season his Patriots have appeared soft, passive and disjointed because of poor communications against even some of the most mediocre offenses they’ve faced.’
Offense's lack of production leaves Bledsoe frustrated
‘"It’s been extremely draining," Bledsoe said of the emotional currency he has invested in the train-wreck season. "To come in with expectations, then to lose so many close games early, then to come back each week and battle again and still end up losing 10 of 14 has just been very, very difficult."’
Some Suggestions For Ralph Wilson After Bills' Next Two Meaningless Games
‘So with a very strong likelihood that Buffalo will end its season in the midst of a five-game losing streak, here’s my suggestions for owner Ralph Wilson as to how to clean up the mess at One Bills Drive.’
Bledsoe: I want to stay in New England
‘Patriots quarterback Drew Bledsoe says he wants to finish his career in New England, despite a disappointing season that finds his team in last place.’
Bills Hansen, Fina questionable; Johnson nursing sore elbow
‘The banged-up Buffalo Bills might be minus a couple of more players as defensive end Phil Hansen and tackle John Fina are listed as questionable for this weekend’s game.’
Phillips gives Johnson vote of confidence
‘"We’re making yardage and he’s a high-rated passer. That’s why we feel like he has a future," the Buffalo Bills’ coach said of his quarterback.’
PHILLIPS GIVES STAFF VOTE OF CONFIDENCE
‘Three particular staffers — offensive coordinator Joe Pendry, offensive line coach Carl Mauck and special teams coach Ronnie Jones — have come under fire by fans, the media and, in some cases, players.’
PARADE OF JOHNSON HITS HAS PHILLIPS CONCERNED
‘The Elias Sports Bureau recently released statistics that show Johnson throughout his career has been sacked once every 6.6 times he drops back to pass.’
FOUR BILLS GO TO PRO BOWL
‘Both of the starters from the Bills play on offense: Eric Moulds and Marvin Harrison of the Indianapolis Colts will start at wide receiver; Ruben Brown and Tennessee’s Bruce Matthews are the starting guards.’
BillsBeat - December 13, 2000
No Surprise Ending For Buffalo
‘When Ronnie Jones sends his troops out on the field, you know something bad is going to happen. You just don’t know when. Or how.’
Play calling has the Bills mystified
‘Moulds, when asked why he’s not getting the ball, responded, "You guys have to ask the coaches that. I just go out and run the routes that they call."’
Johnson says he's part of problem
‘Following the game, which officially eliminated the Bills from playoff contention, Johnson let down his guard, soiled his reputation as an uncaring beach bum, and showed some honest to goodness emotion. It’s about time.’
Bills try to resurrect pride in final games
‘"We just showed everybody that we didn’t have the character to stand up to a Colts team who I still don’t know how we got blown out (by)," said always animated defensive end Marcellus Wiley.’
Bumbling Bills attempt to salvage what's left of the season
‘The fallout from Monday’s 44-20 loss at Indianapolis found players questioning the Bills one-dimensional offensive scheme, others admittedly embarrassed, and a special teams unit in utter disarray.’