The preseason ended for the Buffalo Bills on a dismal note with a 14-6 loss to the Detroit Lions, as almost all of the starters were rested before the season opener against the Seahawks. Despite the offenses inability to get into the end zone, there is plenty of optimism in the Bills camp. The return from a thigh bruise of QB Trent Edwards, who spent the summer working with the starting unit to get familiar with the offense, should bring a lot of cohesion to the team. The hold out of All-Pro caliber OL Jason Peters is a major concern because of the lack of depth and because Peters was one of the best lineman in the league last year. RB Marshawn Lynch should be a given 1,000 rusher this year barring injury, but has the potential to bust out and run for over 1500 yards. If you are looking for a second tier running back, he would be a great pick up if you can get him for a minimal risk price.
WR James Hardy continues to impress, showing off his downfield blocking prowess which shows he is working on becoming a complete player. WR Lee Evans has been the best receiver on the team the past couple of years and I expect him to pick it up, with the challenge from Hardy to be the top dog on the team. I would not pick up WR Josh Reed as I see his role diminishing daily!
TE Robert Royal was a big blocking lineman type last year who got just enough catches to keep the defense honest. This year, it look slike there will be much more involvement at that position with Royal catching 2 TD’s in 1 preseason game.
The additions of DL Marcus Stroud and LB Kawicka Mitchell will alleviate a lot of the pressure on others to get to the quarterback. DL Aaron Schbel, and L Chris Kelsay should benefit, as they will get more 1 on 1 situations. I look for LB Paul Puzluzny to have a huge impact on the team with his return from a broken arm last year. With veteran LB John Digiorgio filling in at outside linebacker, the front 7 should be very competitive. Look for CB Leodis McKelvin to make an instant impact, either with an interception for a TD, or getting toasted on D for a TD the other way.
K Rian Lindell has been kicking in Buffalo long enough to be as reliable in the cold weather as any of them, plus with the more wide open offense, look for more extra points out of the kicking position! Interesting games, but I am sssooooo ready for some real football!!!!!!!!