Two Bills Drive

‘Buffalo rode Doug Flutie all the way to the playoffs – after opening the season 0-3. The Bills became just the fifth team in NFL history to lose its first three and rebound to make the postseason. Flutie stepped in for an injured Rob Johnson and never relinquished the job, winning seven of 10 starts down the stretch. Despite that performance, Flutie is by no means

guaranteed a starting role all season – Johnson owns a $25 million contract and he doesn’t figure to just concede his spot.’

‘The starters on offense and defense are expected to play at least the first half, and perhaps into the third quarter if one group doesn’t get enough work in the first 30 minutes. Doug Flutie will start at quarterback, Rob Johnson will likely take over at the start of the third quarter, and Alex Van Pelt may see action late in the fourth quarter.’

Don’t read this. Buffalo doesn’t even get a mention. This is for your “Sports Experts to Serve Crow in December” bookmark folder.

’13. BUFFALO BILLS…Outlook: The Bills are counting on more miracles from quarterback Doug Flutie, and it could happen. The Bills have tried to build some depth, and they have some good young players like WR Eric Moulds and RB Antowain Smith. And don’t forget that guy at defensive end — Bruce Smith, who at 36 can still make big plays.’

‘The Bills had a good draft. Watch for Peerless Price to settle under some long throws from the revitalized Doug Flutie, and for cornerback Antoine Winfield’s big-time hits. They also have a good blend of top youngsters (Moulds, guard Ruben Brown, linebacker Sam Cowart) to go with a strong array of vets. There’s no lack of leadership here.’

‘”I’m just a lot more relaxed this year,” Flutie says. “I have the same intensity and the same attitude about it. I’ve always that had that drive and desire to be as good as I can be and win and all that. But I’m just so much more comfortable with the whole surroundings, locker room, guys in the locker room, on the field, the offence. It’s just a much more relaxed situation for me.”‘

‘”I play the best I can,” said Hansen, beginning his ninth year in Buffalo. “If recognition comes, great. If it doesn’t, play harder.”‘