SB Nation - Lee Evans

Bills drop No. 13 in a row to New England

Brian Galliford — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 21:20:14 -0000

Well, that was typical.

Trailing 17-10 in the fourth quarter after Lee Evans caught his first career touchdown pass against the New England Patriots, the Buffalo Bills recovered an onside kick with three minutes remaining. The potential game-changing play was negated, however, by the fact that rookie defensive end Aaron Maybin crossed the 30-yard line prior to the ball being kicked. Offsides; no play; ball goes back to New England.

But that's not the end of the world - not when the Bills' defense has completely shut down the Patriots for the entire second half, holding them to three points in just under two quarters. On a third down, Tom Brady his Wes Welker for a first down - the Pats' only first down of the final quarter. Game, set, match.

The loss is Buffalo's thirteenth straight against Bill Belichick and the Patriots. It came in a pretty unique way; Ryan Fitzpatrick was benched, then Trent Edwards hurt his ankle and carted off the field, so Fitzpatrick came back in and hurt his own ankle, and then gave the Bills at least some semblance of a chance at winning the game late in regulation with his touchdown pass. Buffalo lost linebacker Bryan Scott late, too, as he joined Edwards as Bills carted off the field of play.

Buffalo lost this game well before Maybin's miscue, commiting 11 penalties for 124 yards and giving up six sacks on Fitzpatrick and Edwards. That's 165 free yards for a New England club that only gained 224 yards offensively - Buffalo actually out-gained the Patriots offensively, if you'll believe it, gaining 241 yards themselves. Penalties - the most critical of which were defensive holding or pass interference calls - absolutely killed the Bills in this game, particularly in the first half.

The loss overshadows strong individual efforts from Fred Jackson (80 rushing yards, 32 receiving yards, 108 return yards), Paul Posluszny (9 tackles, INT) and others. Buffalo held Brady in check; Brady completed just 11 of 23 passes for 115 yards, with one TD and the Posluszny interception. Despite the solid defensive effort, the team couldn't muster enough offensively to pull off the upset.

Buffalo is now 5-9 on the season, including a 2-3 record under interim head coach Perry Fewell. The team has officially been eliminated from playoff contention. Next week, they travel to Atlanta to take on a Falcons team that pulled off a last-minute win over the New York Jets on Sunday, evening their record at 7-7.

Keys to Victory: Buffalo Bills vs New England Patriots

Brian Galliford — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 14:29:54 -0000

This is it. The 5-8 Buffalo Bills, on the verge of an off-season of sweeping change and their tenth consecutive season without playoff football, are about to play in their Super Bowl. Call it Super Bowl AMNF (Avenge Monday Night Football), if you like. (Super Bowl ADOF - Avenge Decade Of Futility - works too.) The point is this: as far as big games go, this is by far the biggest of the three that the 2009 Bills will play this season.

You know the facts. The New England Patriots have won 12 straight games against the Bills, and 17 of 18 overall. The Bills had the Pats dead to rights in Week 1, leading the game 24-13 in the fourth quarter, but two Tom Brady touchdown throws to Benjamin Watson - sandwiched around a fumbled kickoff by Leodis McKelvin - allowed the Patriots to stick a dagger into Buffalo's hearts yet again, escaping with a 25-24 victory.

The Patriots are on something of a slide, however. They've lost three of their last five games after starting the season 6-2, and now lead the AFC East by just a game. We're all aware of what the Bills are, but there's a chance - however minor - that Buffalo could pull the upset on a vulnerable New England team. They'll need to accomplish all five keys to victory after the jump, however, to do so.

Find a way to get off the field defensively. Even with Brady banged up and the offense struggling to score points, Buffalo's defense is not going to be able to completely shut down the Pats, because nobody can. Buffalo has never been capable of containing Brady, either - just look at Brady's 39 completions in Week 1 after returning from a year's football hiatus as proof of that. The Bills' league-worst run defense won't be able to completely contain the Patriots' deep stable of runners, either. You can bet large sums of money, too, that Bill Belichick is keenly aware that the Bills have forced at least four turnovers in four of their five victories this season - so he'll preach ball security at all costs. That leaves third down defense. If Buffalo can't get off the field on third downs, they're duck soup.

Limit the big play. As mentioned, New England's offense is struggling a bit right now. They're averaging 19 points per game in their last three outings, and if the Bills play well, that number shouldn't grow dramatically given the Patriots' road woes. With that in mind, the Bills absolutely cannot give up long gainers on a frequent basis to bail the Pats out. Make them earn every yard. This obviously goes for Brady and the passing game (specifically Randy Moss), but it goes for the run defense, too, which gives out 20-yard runs like Santa gives out Christmas gifts.

Play mistake-free football offensively. By mistakes, I obviously mean penalties and, far more importantly, turnovers. The Bills have not had a turnover-free game offensively since their Week 7 victory at Carolina put them at 3-4 on the season. That's the team's only turnover-free game all season. Last week, a three-turnover outing offensively ruined Buffalo's chances of blowing out Kansas City; instead, they snuck out a hideous 16-10 victory on the road. Asking for a minimal amount of penalties might be getting greedy, considering the Bills will start their eighth different offensive line combination this week, but playing turnover-free football against a desperate opponent is of critical importance.

Get Lee Evans involved. This won't happen if Terrell Owens doesn't play (I think he will), because without Owens on the field, Belichick will simply employ his usual double coverage and completely erase Evans from the game. I swear, Patriots fans don't even know Lee Evans exists, unless they happen to have him on their fantasy teams. In 11 career games against New England, Evans has a mere 28 catches for 397 yards. That's less than 3 catches and about 36 yards per game. Lee Evans has never scored a touchdown against the New England Patriots. That's tough to wrap your mind around, isn't it? The statistical ineptitude needs to end, because the Bills are a different offensive team when Evans is involved, and there's no reason not to target Lee as many times as they target T.O. It's time for the New England suckitude to end, Mr. Evans.

Give these Pats your best shot. I don't mean play hard, because that's a weekly goal, win or lose. I'm talking about being the aggressor. I'm talking about playing with "1-17" stamped ferociously into your brain, Buffalo. Play pissed off, because you should be. This is a team that has used you as a freaking doormat for a decade. They clearly remain the more talented team, but there is absolutely no reason not to play to dominate this game - that's what the Pats do, after all. It goes beyond playing for pride, or playing to hang around with a superior team. It's about getting the franchise a signature win - it's been a meaningless decade of football in Buffalo, but knocking off New England and ending the losing streak might be the win of the decade. Play to dominate. Play to embarrass. Play within yourselves, Buffalo, but don't be passive. Kick some Patriot ass, even if you lose. Take it to this team.

Web Rumblings: Buffalo Bills Links, 12/19

MattRichWarren — Sat, 19 Dec 2009 12:52:34 -0000

More photos » by Winslow Townson - AP

3 months ago: Former Buffalo Bills quarterback Jim Kelly, right, talks with New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady before an NFL football game between the Bill and the Patriots on Monday, Sept. 14, 2009, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Winslow Townson)

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Bills O-line a comedy of calamities - AFC East Blog - ESPN
"Buffalo's football operations department left the line woefully inexperienced at the start of the year, and it deteriorated from there. It's the NFL's most-penalized unit. One of the five has started all 13 games at his position. Four who've started are on injured reserve. Kugler has patched together seven different starting combinations and could assemble an eighth Sunday against the New England Patriots in Ralph Wilson Stadium. "

Kelly's Call: Injuries Bills' biggest detriment - BuffaloBills.com
"The continuity of the offensive line has been a compromising factor in all of this and I feel bad for the offensive linemen trying to hold that thing together despite all the changes. As a quarterback I know it has been no picnic for them and for Ryan Fitzpatrick. When the quarterback is getting hit and sacked the first set of guys that are blamed are those linemen."

Buffalo Bills game sells out, TV blackout avoided | Democrat and Chronicle
"Sunday's AFC East game between the New England Patriots and Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium in Orchard Park is officially sold out and will be televised locally, the team announced this morning."

WGR 550 SportsRadio - Schopp + Bulldog's Bills 'Bad' Team of the Decade
The list includes captain Willis McGahee, Marshawn Lynch, Terrell Owens, Jason Peters, Antoine Winfield, Nate Clements, and an empty spot at punter. "They don't have to be the worst player in Bills' history, just a name that personifies what was wrong with the last 10 years of Bills' football."

Bills' secondary to face major exam : Buffalo Bills : The Buffalo News
Randy Moss and Wes Welker, not to mention the rest of the Patriots passing attack, may present challenges to the Bills pass defense that they haven't seen yet in their otherwise stellar season.

Final Word: AFC East - AFC East Blog - ESPN
- Terrell Owens and Lee Evans have to be amped to face the Patriots secondary.
- If the Bills defeat the Patriots on Sunday, then interim coach Perry Fewell gets the job

Fan Friday 12-18 – Inside The Bills
Chris Brown tackles questions on how the Bills are doing right now, switching to a 3-4, Eric Wood's recovery (he's still in a wheelchair), next year's opponents, and Tim Tebow.

NFL fines Incognito for on-field actions : Buffalo Bills : The Buffalo News
The NFL fined the new Buffalo Bills guard $50,000 on Friday for committing two unnecessary roughness penalties during St. Louis' 47-7 loss at Tennessee last Sunday, according to several reports.

BillBoard: T.O. in TO
It looks like Terrell Owens' "illness'' didn't keep him from making a trip to Toronto Friday night. On his Twitter page, he talked about his autograph signing at Sears and attending a Toronto Raptors game (he was dogging the Nets, calling them a D-League team, which they are). But doesn't it strike you as odd that Owens was well enough to go to Toronto, but too sick to practice the last two days? Or is it just me?

Owens questionable for Sunday | BuffaloBills.com
"It wasn’t the cold that kept Terrell Owens off the practice field late this week, it was an illness. Owens missed practice on Thursday and Friday, and it’s left him questionable for Sunday’s game against New England."

Simmons to I-R; Klopfenstein re-signed | BuffaloBills.com
"The revolving door leading to Buffalo’s injured reserve list is spinning again and another Bills offensive lineman is walking through. Just a month after being signed by the club to fill a hole on the interior of Buffalo’s offensive line, veteran Kendall Simmons was placed on injured reserve with a shoulder injury."

Buffalo Bills' Bryan Scott finds success at linebacker | Democrat and Chronicle
"The second coming of Ray Lewis he is not. But as learning-on-the-fly linebackers go, Bryan Scott has filled in surprisingly well for the Buffalo Bills. So well that even one of the NFL's most respected coaches, Bill Belichick, was praising the move earlier this week."

Injury-prone Bills place T Simmons on IR - The Sports Network
"The Buffalo Bills placed offensive lineman Kendall Simmons on injured reserve Friday, marking the 16th player the team has placed in IR this season. The Bills' team record for players on IR is 17, set in 2007. Simmons became the sixth offensive lineman this year to be placed on the list."

Video: How do T.O. and Moss compare? - AFC East Blog - ESPN
ESPN analysts Mark Schlereth and Tedy Bruschi discuss how Buffalo Bills receiver Terrell Owens compares to New England Patriots receiver Randy Moss in advance of Sunday's game in Ralph Wilson Stadium.

Byrd expects Moss to be on a mission - AFC East Blog - ESPN
"He's going to come in here with a chip on his shoulder," Jairus Byrd said. "Everything that's in the media and what happened last week with Carolina. We know he's going to have a chip, try to prove something. That's the game of football."

Patriots may look more to the ground game against Buffalo | New England Patriots | projo.com | The Providence Journal
"Because of the problems against the run, Buffalo’s opponents have had the ball for 902 plays. No other team has had to play defense for that many plays. "

The New England Patriots need to come together as a team to beat the Buffalo Bills - ESPN Boston
Mike Reiss of ESPNBoston and former Pats linebacker Tedy Bruschi break down this weekend's matchup. It's rather in-depth but obviously from a New England perspective.

Buffalo Bills NFL News Updates - CBSSports.com Rapid Reports
"If the Bills find a way to upset the Patriots, it would be a huge feather in interim coach Perry Fewell's cap. "Without a doubt, it'd be huge ... we want to be part of that reason for him to be considered for the position of the head coach," RB Fred Jackson said."

Matching up against the Bills - the Patriots take on another divisional opponent - Pats Pulpit
"It's no secret the Patriots are an aerial team. But with a suspect Buffalo run defense and a very strong pair of Bills running backs, I think both teams will keep to the ground more often than not."

Poor writing mars good stories about Van Miller : The Buffalo News
"Heaven knows, the 81-year-old Miller deserves a book. "Fasten Your Seatbelts: The Van Miller Story" isn’t it."

Perfect gift for Bills’ fans | Olean Times Herald
Chuck Pollack reviews Jeff Miller and Marv Levy's book Game Changers about the best play s in Bills history.

BillBoard: Shanahan reportedly talks to Redskins
"The Post also said that, according to an NFL source, when Shanahan met with Bills COO/GM Russ Brandon about the team's coaching and front office opportunities last month Allen was supposed to be part of the package deal."

Owens, four others questionable for Patriots game

Brian Galliford — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 18:18:49 -0000

More photos » by Orlin Wagner - AP

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Buffalo Bills wide receiver Terrell Owens, who missed practice on Thursday and Friday due to illness, has been listed as questionable for Sunday's home tilt with the New England Patriots.

Owens, who has 45 receptions for 705 yards and 4 touchdowns on the season, is Buffalo's leading receiver. The upset-minded Bills would likely be forced to start Josh Reed next to veteran Lee Evans on Sunday if Owens can't go. Owens was in team meetings on Friday, reports BuffaloBills.com, and Owens has been listed as questionable and played in games earlier this season.

Coming up on the end of the one-year, $6.5 million deal he signed this past March, Owens may be embarking on the final three games of his Buffalo career. He will be an unrestricted free agent after the season.

Meanwhile, three other players - left tackle Jonathan Scott, reserve tackle Jamon Meredith and special teamer Justin Jenkins - are listed as questionable alongside Owens. Unlike T.O., all three participated in practice on Friday.

Jairus Byrd, who continues to deal with a groin injury, is listed as probable.

To close out the week, head coach Perry Fewell had the Bills practicing outdoors. Here's a worthy note from WGR 550:

Andy Levitre was the only Bill to brave the frigid outdoor practice in short sleeves, and scoffed at the idea of wearing long sleeves.

Web Rumblings: Buffalo Bills Links, 12/18

MattRichWarren — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 13:45:36 -0000

More photos » by Steven Senne - AP

3 months ago: Buffalo Bills defensive end Aaron Schobel (94) carries New England Patriots running back Sammy Morris (34) on the way to the goal line as he scores a touchdown after an interception in the second quarter during an NFL football game, Monday, Sept. 14, 2009, in Foxborough, Mass. (AP Photo/Steven Senne)

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Incognito could start Sunday – Inside The Bills
"With Kendall Simmons nursing a shoulder injury and not practicing again on Thursday, Richie Incognito said he stepped right in with the first unit in Simmons’ place at right guard."

Owens is sick – Inside The Bills
Terrell Owens missed Thursday’s practice due to illness.

Phil Sheridan: One ex-player presses on for safer NFL helmets | Philadelphia Inquirer
"Mark Kelso, who now does radio commentary on Bills games, isn't remembered as well for his 30 career interceptions as he is for wearing the ProCap helmet pad - an extra layer of protection that made him look, in his own words, like the Great Gazoo from the old Flintstones show."

Dierdorf expecting competitive game – Inside The Bills
"There are some teams in this league that just aren’t competitive," said Dan Dierdorf, the CBS color analyst for this weekend's game. "Maybe once or twice a year they can muster it up, but the Bills certainly don’t fall into that category. The Bills are 5-8. This is a much better Buffalo team than some of the bottom dwellers. They only lost to Jacksonville, 18-15. They lost to the Jets, 19-13. This is not a bad football team. It’s a team with a losing record, but this team is far from being an embarrassment."

Question Mark: To get competitive, Bills need more elite players : The Buffalo News
The News' Mark Gaughan answers your questions about the Bills missing a home run in the draft, getting an eye on young players now that we're out of the playoffs, and line of scrimmage.

WGR 550 SportsRadio - The 2000s so far: Moment No. 9
Nick Mendola says the angriest he's ever been doing his job was covering the Bills announcement of the Toronto series. It's moment 9 on WGR's list of the top 10 Buffalo sports moments of the decade.

Bills eager to end Pats streak - BuffaloBills.com
"It’s the Patriots. They’ve beaten us 12 straight times now. We’re trying to get rid of that. We want to. I haven’t beaten them since I’ve been here," Fred Jackson said. "I want to get that first win and know what it feels like to beat the Patriots."

WGR 550 SportsRadio - Whitey's Bills-Pats preview: What they have, that we don't
Jeremy White visited Boston and took in a day at Patriots Place, the stadium for the hated rival. Well as White explains, you can do virtually anything and buy anything right at the stadium. Take a look.

Video: Bills given little chance versus Pats - AFC East Blog - ESPN
ESPN's Jenny Dell previews the New England Patriots at Buffalo Bills game with the AccuScore report. In one of the more lopsided forecasts of the season, the Patriots won 71 percent of the time in AccuScore's 10,000 simulations

Shawn Springs keeps eye on Terrell Owens - BostonHerald.com
If they both play this will be the 11th meeting between Shawn Springs and Terrell Owens this weekend.

Pats recall an eerie trip to the eastern end of (Lake) Erie - Brockton, MA - The Enterprise
The Patriots recall the weather conditions last December in Buffalo when wind gusts made kicking and throwing virtually impossible and the goal posts had to be realigned before each kick.

Return to Buffalo is special for Aiken - Patriots.com
Patriots special teams captain Sam Aiken discusses playing against his former teammates.

Evans and Draft fuel up - BuffaloBills.com
Bills wide receiver Lee Evans and linebacker Chris Draft spoke to the kids about the importance of nutrition and being active for 60 minutes a day. Students also participated in various physical fitness activities like jump roping, relay races and three-legged races and received a healthy lunch.

Schobel vs. Brady - Patriots Blog - ESPN Boston
Aaron Schobel has sacked Tom Brady more times (12) than any other player. Obviously that's more an indictment of Matt Light than anything else.

Patriots Today - Brady, Buffalo, Wrap-A-Pat and more video
"The Patriots are naturally quite familiar with the Buffalo Bills, but it's been three months since the division rivals first faced off in 2009. Tom Brady, Bill Belichick and others chime in on Wednesday with thoughts on what's in store this Sunday in Buffalo."

Lightening the load - Press-Banner
Andy Levitre donated $5000 to his old high school football team to kick off their campaign to install lights on their football field. The NFL matched the donation.

Perfect Game - 12.21.09 - SI Vault
Sports Illustrated did a feature on punters this week and as part of that article showed how, in their words, "Browns punter Dave Zastudil almost single-handedly beat the Bills."

Si's Punter Ratings - 12.21.09 - SI Vault
Sports Illustrated ranked Bills punter Brian Moorman 24th on their list of NFL punters using this bizzare adapted QB rating system for punters. Shane Lechler, who is having an amazing season in Oakland, isn't even in the top 10.

Fitz on former teammate Chris Henry – Inside The Bills
"It was very sad," said former Bengal Ryan Fitzpatrick. "Tragic news. I think for the guys that know him, it’s very different than the public perception of him. The trouble that he got in the past and all that, everybody knows that he’s a great guy."

Former teammate's death throws Bills' Fitzpatrick for a loss : The Buffalo News
Fitzpatrick said, "I'm still trying to grasp what really happened because it's such tough news and a shock to hear."

Not so Incognito
Wilfork might meet his match – Inside The Bills
"It’s no secret that Vince Wilfork has had his share of cheap shots against the Bills over the years. Only difference between Richie Incognito and Wilfork is the Patriots DT rarely gets caught. For those that don’t know here’s the quick laundry list."

Bills claim OL Incognito - BuffaloBills.com
"The last three years we won five games total," said Incognito. "That’s a lot to lose and it takes its toll on you as an athlete more than I really imagined. And now it’s good to take a step back, get out of the situation and come here with a clean slate and play ball. I’m going to be a lot less selfish with the penalties and just the acting out." Incognito will wear jersey number 62.

New Bills lineman Incognito defends his play : The Buffalo News
The News profiles newest Buffalo Bill Richie Incognito and his reputation.

Team in Transition
Redskins hire Allen as GM | WIVB.com
"Bills sources told us weeks ago they had approached Bruce Allen to see if he was interested in coming to Buffalo. He was not."

Warming up the NFL coaching carousel | National Football Post
"Buffalo is a job for a retread without other options, a Charlie Weis (Wilson tried to hire him six years ago), Brian Billick or first-timer willing to work cheap. The retread is the statistically better option. "

Bills Tweets
Twitter / Fake Perry Fewell
,500 record = Bills Coach of the Decade.

Twitter / Sal Maiorana
Bills sold out Sunday' Pats game on time, but there are still 5,000 tix left for Colts. That might be 1st blackout of the year

Twitter / Sal Maiorana
CBS' Dan Dierdorf on Bills: "It’s a team with a losing record, but this team is far from being an embarrassment." Still, no playoffs 10 yrs

Bills Fantasy Friday: Week 15 Start 'Em/Sit 'Em

Kurupt — Fri, 18 Dec 2009 13:00:25 -0000

More photos » by Ed Zurga - AP

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By now, pretty much every fantasy league should be in their playoffs. If not, what kind of league are you in?! For those of you lucky (or savvy) enough to still be fighting for your league's championship, congratulations.

The Buffalo Bills host the New England Patriots this Sunday in a matchup with decent fantasy implications - even for the Bills. Buffalo looks to finally knock the Patriots off, while Tom Brady and company are looking to better their playoff and division title chances with a road victory. Besides Brady, who might be worth a start in this do-or-die fantasy week? Let's find out.

Quarterbacks
Tom Brady - I think it's pretty obvious that if you own Brady, you start him. Despite having a "down" year from what many may have expected, he still has over 3800 yards and 23 touchdown passes thus far. And in case you forgot, he's owned the Bills throughout his career (240 yards per game, 2.1 touchdowns per game, 102.6 QB rating, 14-1 record). Start him with confidence, especially in this must win for the Patriots. Verdict: Start 'Em

Ryan Fitzpatrick - The typical Ryan Fitzpatrick games have returned as he's thrown for 184 yards the past two games....combined. Don't expect those numbers to improve greatly this week, even against a very susceptible Patriots' pass defense that's giving up 211 yards per game and has allowed 22 touchdown passes on the season. They've allowed over 300 yards passing in four of their last five road games. The opportunities will be there, but with Fitzpatrick as the quarterback, those will likely be wasted opportunities like so many other chances the Bills have had. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Running Backs
Laurence Maroney - Maroney has seen a bit of a rebirth this season, as he's been able to remain healthy and on the field for the entirety thus far. SInce taking over as the main rusher in the Patriots attack, he's put up 555 yards rushing and 8 touchdowns in 8 games. Those are solid numbers for a flex back, especially one who was mostly forgotten on draft day. With the Bills run defense still atrocious, Maroney will definitely have his chances to put up a monster game. Expect a short yardage touchdown and 75-100 yards at the very least. Verdict: Start 'Em

Sammy Morris - The former Bills has returned to the field recently after battling a knee injury. He's averaged roughly 7 touches per game in this three games since returning, but hasn't really had much of an impact. With Bill Belichick, you never know if Morris will assume the majority of the touches, but at this point, it's hard to believe he'll be anything more than a secondary option in the Patriots ground game. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Fred Jackson - Jackson continues to start and get the higher percentage of the rushes. I think that will continue. Jackson has been very successful against the Patriots recently putting up 276 total rushing and receiving yards and a touchdown in the past two match-ups between the teams. With Marshawn Lynch starting to come on, don't expect Jackson to get the type of work needed to reaches those numbers again, but he could be in line for a pretty solid fantasy day. I expect him to be a big factor in the passing game and he seems to be the goal line back at this point. I'd take a chance and go with him as a flex this week. Verdict: Start 'Em as a flex only

Marshawn Lynch - Lynch is starting to run a lot better recently, picking up 144 yards on 18 rushes over the past two games. With an offensive line that is beginning to run block a little better, Lynch is starting to benefit. However, he's still only averaged 8 rushes per game over his last six games. Don't expect a big game out of him, but he could have a solid game all around. He's not worth starting in fantasy though. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Wide Receivers
Wes Welker - Welker has been fantasy gold this year, in normal formats and especially in PPR leagues. He leads the league in receptions with a whopping 105 thus far, and his currently second in the NFL with 1,158 yards. Taking out the season finale last year where nobody could throw the ball in the wind, Welker has 34 receptions for 347 yards in four games against the Bills since joining the Patriots. Amazingly, he hasn't found the endzone. Don't worry about that though. Welker will be his usual self catching a ton of passes and moving the chains. Start him with a ton of confidence. Verdict: Start 'Em

Randy Moss - A lot has been said about Moss the past week, and whether or not he quit against the Panthers. I don't believe he did, but then again, I didn't see a whole lot of that game. One thing I do know, Moss, Brady and Belichick will be hellbent on getting this guy going again. I fully expect them to go to Moss early and often. He's dominated the Bills during his Patriots career. Again taking out the Wind Bowl game, Moss has 32 receptions for 437 yards and 6 touchdowns in four games. I fully expect Moss to have a big game this week, especially if Reggie Corner is involved at all. He'll get his. Verdict: Start 'Em

Terrell Owens - Owens scored last week, but again had a down game. He's put up good numbers against teams that reside in Florida this season, but has struggled in pretty much every other game. In the first match-up, Owens had just 2 receptions and was effectively taken out of the game. The Patriots will try to do that again and it's hard to believe they won't succeed. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Lee Evans - If ever there is a team to definitely bench Evans against, it's the Patriots. He's struggled mightily against them during his career and those struggles should continue. Evans has been a non-factor for much of the season. God bless you if you are actually contemplating starting him this week, or ever again! Verdict: Sit 'Em

Tight Ends
Benjamin Watson - (Who goes by Benjamin?) Watson pretty much destroyed the Bills in the 4th quarter of the first match-up and ending up scoring the two touchdowns to give the Patriots the lead for good. He's been a bit player in the Patriots passing attack since that night, which is a surprise to no one. Stick with whatever has gotten you to this point. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Shawn Nelson - No way. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Kickers
Stephen Gostkowski - Gostkowski is 5th in the NFL with 106 points and 6th with 23 field goals made. He's one of the few kickers that you should keep in your lineup each week. Verdict: Start 'Em

Rian Lindell - Surprisingly enough, Lindell is actually tied with Gostkowski with those 23 field goals made. Still, you really can't rely on him to get his chances from week to week. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Defense/Special Teams
New England D/ST - With Fitzpatrick and the cringe-inducing Bills offense as the opponent, there will be ample opportunities to pick up sacks and pick off some errant throws. They've been a solid fantasy unit this season, so you shouldn't really be concerned that they haven't done it this year. As is usually the case with fantasy defenses, you can pick up good chunks of points week to week based on matchups. I think this is one of those weeks. Verdict: Start 'Em

Buffalo D/ST - The pass defense has been opportunistic this season, but it's still hard to imagine them shutting down the Patriots this week. Verdict: Sit 'Em

Sleepers
None - If you're still playing in your league at this point, you really aren't looking for any sleepers to get you some cheap points. Plus, I don't think there's any in this game as it is.

*******

Let's just hope the Bills put up a fight and keep the game within striking distance. The Patriots will likely be coming in hungry and ready to smack the Bills around. I just hope the Bills are ready to smack back! Good luck in your fantasy playoffs this week, and Go Buffalo!

Web Rumblings: Buffalo Bills Links, 12/15

MattRichWarren — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 11:47:31 -0000

More photos » by Ed Zurga - AP

6 days ago: Buffalo Bills defensive back Jairus Byrd (31) breaks up a pass intended for Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Lance Long in the the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Dec. 13, 2009, in Kansas City, Mo. Long was call for pass interference on the play. The Bills 16-10. (AP Photo/Ed Zurga)

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Buffalo Bills’ All-Decay Team : Buffalo Sports Daily
"Every franchise has its busts, but few can put together a complete lineup of failures who came with so much promise. These aren’t just any scrubs; they’re guys who, based on what was invested in them, were counted on to make the team respectable at least. " Can't say I agree with Willis McGahee on here.

S Byrd leads NFL and interception-happy Bills - NFL - Yahoo! Sports
John Wawrow of the AP analyzes the Bills' interception totals from the year. [Ed. Note: Check out the caption on the photo above and catch the mistake.]

Evans again forgotten on Bills' offense : Jerry Sullivan : The Buffalo News
"You have to feel a twinge of sympathy for poor Lee Evans. Good guy. Good teammate. Good in the community. Good hands. Great speed. But in his sixth NFL season, the Bills' wide receiver is struggling through the most discouraging season of his career."

Bills replay: Running backs finally run wild : Buffalo Bills : The Buffalo News
In his game tape review, Allen Wilson focuses in on the Bills run blocking and running backs.

Buffalo Bills Replay | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle
"We're trying to say some nice things about the Bills because this might be our last chance. This is probably the last game they're going to win this season." Thanks Sal!

Perfect ending for Colts, Saints would be Super Bowl | Democrat and Chronicle
Buffalo was holding opponents to a 62.5 passer rating before Kansas City's Matt Cassel registered a 35.4 rating in a 16-10 home loss to the Bills. The Bills entered Sunday with a 25th-ranked 70.0 passer rating themselves, and Ryan Fitzpatrick had a 65.8 rating in victory Sunday.

Buffalo Bills NFL News Updates - CBSSports.com Rapid Reports
The Bills are currently leading the league in INTs with 25. The last time Buffalo had that many takeaways through the air was in 1975.

Moorman has shot at elusive number – Inside The Bills
"After Sunday’s masterful performance in which he finished with a net average of 53, Moorman’s net average for the season is now 41.4, good for third in the league."

Monday Morning Quarterback - Peter King - SI.com
King named Brian Moorman his special teams player of the week for punting four times for a 53-yard average and not surrendering a return yard. He forgot to mention the other stuff like getting a bad snap up for Rian Lindell and calling a timeout instead of taking a delay of game penalty.

Run game revs up - BuffaloBills.com
"My hat goes off to Jonathan Stupar because he played every play on offense," said Fred Jackson. "He was on the field (throwing up) at one point. He was a guy that wanted to perform for us and help us get a victory. Jamon coming in as another tight end to help us [when Shawn Nelson went down]. It was about guys just wanting to get a victory."

Scott growing into role at linebacker : The Buffalo News
"He's a big safety and a small linebacker," Fewell said. "Bryan is really stepping up to the plate for us because we need guys to step up to the plate. It's not the role that he envisioned himself to be in at the beginning of the season but it shows how unselfish he is and how unselfish this team is."

What Else Can We Expect? | Democrat and Chronicle | Three-Point Stance
Sal Maiorana lauds defensive ends Aaron Schobel and Chris Kelsay for playing well and explains why he dislikes Aaron Maybin so much. He also calls for Brian Brohm because Ryan Fitzpatrick "couldn’t start for about 20 Division I college teams."

No passing mark yet for Fitzpatrick | Olean Times Herald
"One question was emphatically answered on Sunday afternoon at Arrowhead Stadium: neither Trent Edwards nor Ryan Fitzpatrick will be the Bills’ quarterback come training camp next July."

Taking out the Trash: Bill of goods - George Winkler - Fantasy Source Blitz - Sporting News
"Perry Fewell says he's sticking with Fitzpatrick, but it doesn't take an Ivy League education for fantasy owners to know the Harvard grad should be punted."

Bills Announce Tickets Available For Last Two Games | WKBW News
The Bills have announced that approximately 2,000 tickets are available for Sunday’s game vs. the New England Patriots and over 5,000 tickets remain for the January 3rd game vs. the Indianapolis Colts.

Countdown Daily Insight Center: NE-BUF - ESPN Video - ESPN
Football Scientist KC Joyner takes you into the IBM Insight Center to tell you the keys to victory.

WGR 550 SportsRadio - Jake Locker Could Have Been #1
"Sam Bradford is a mid-first round talent. I project Colt McCoy as a late first to early second round pick, with the likes of Tim Tebow, Dan LeFevour, Tony Pike and Sean Canfield in a glut just beyond him. Watch out for Arkansas's Ryan Mallet, however. He's a very raw talent and underclassmen, but has the skills to sneak in to the first round if he elects to leave early."

It's my mom's birthday today so happy birthday mom!

Bills need to keep pounding the rock

Brian Galliford — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 16:46:13 -0000

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The Buffalo Bills have struggled to run the ball this season. Amidst massive offensive line changes and a three-game suspension to former starting running back Marshawn Lynch at the outset of the season, the Bills have surpassed 100 rushing yards as a team in just 6 of 13 games this season, to the team's overall offensive detriment.

Things are turning around for this unit, however. Interim head coach Perry Fewell has re-established the importance of the running game into his offensive game plans, and as a result, the Bills have rushed for over 100 yards as a team in three of Fewell's first four games as the head man, all in the last three contests. Buffalo's 200-yard rushing effort in yesterday's win over the Kansas City Chiefs may have been their most dominant ground performance of the season.

Why are the Bills suddenly running the ball well? It has a lot to do with the fact that the team has finally strung together a few games in which the same offensive line has started. Buffalo has begun games with seven different line combinations this season - most in the NFL - but in their last three games, the Bills have been fortunate to start the same five along the offensive line (Jonathan Scott, Andy Levitre, Geoff Hangartner, Kendall Simmons and Kirk Chambers). Say what you want about the quality of our opponents or the issues that remain up front, but continuity has played an important role in the run game increases over the past three weeks.

This is a trend that needs to continue, particularly if Fewell is serious about removing the interim tag from his current job title. The only thing that matters to Fewell's job prospects right now is wins. Forget style points. Fewell doesn't need them. He just needs to keep winning, and if he wants to do it, he'll continue to emphasize the running game.

Lynch and Fred Jackson are simply too good to not get touches. Yes, the same can be said of Terrell Owens and Lee Evans, but let's face facts - Ryan Fitzpatrick is much more adept at getting touches for Lynch and Jackson than he is for Owens and Evans. If you want those receivers to get the ball, run a reverse.

Speaking of Fitzpatrick, a good running game is his best friend. It opens up the play-action game and, as much of that particular brand of offensive football features rollouts, it allows Fitzpatrick to utilize the one consistent strength to his game - his ability to make plays with his legs.

The offensive line is OK with a run-dominated offensive game plan, too. This is a group that has fatal pass protection flaws. They only gave up two sacks to the Chiefs, and the fact that that two-sack performance feels like a milestone achievement should speak volumes. But no matter how deficient this unit is pass-blocking, they know how to run block, because every blue-collar offensive lineman knows how to run block. It's what they've done their entire lives. There are no finesse players on this line. Every one of those guys is physical and plays the game with the correct demeanor. Their strength is in run-blocking. They may not be very good at it, but it's what they're best at. Let them continue to do what they're best at.

In 2008, Jackson and Lynch combined to rush for 1,607 yards and 11 touchdowns on 380 carries. Buffalo's quarterback play has gotten worse from '08 to '09, as hard as that is to believe, and as a result, the rushing numbers have suffered; the two backs have 1,153 yards and 4 touchdowns on 284 carries this season. But in their last three games, their numbers have picked up, with the two backs rushing for 353 yards and 3 touchdowns.

Buffalo's next three opponents are ranked Nos. 17 (New England), 23 (Atlanta) and 18 (Indianapolis) against the run. The matchups are there for the Bills to keep running the ball effectively. It's what Buffalo's offense does best, and the team's two most consistent threats just happen to be runners. Knowing Fewell's preferred brand of football and his quest for a starting job, the Bills should - and likely will - keep pounding the rock.

Game Day Web Rumblings: Buffalo Bills Links, 12/13

MattRichWarren — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 13:58:15 -0000

Gameday Tipsheet - Week 14
Chris Brown's comprehensive list of matchups and advantages to watch today.

Gameday Prep: Bills at Chiefs | The Goose's Roost
Ryan from TGR gives one of the best game previews out there.

Special Special Teams … Saturday Cup O’Chiefs | Chiefs Football at BobGretz.com
"There are certain coaches in the NFL that make for sleepless nights for other coaches. Buffalo Bills assistant head coach/special teams Bobby April is one of those coaches."

Game previews
1st qtr could determine a lot – Inside The Bills
The Bills, who have struggled to score points all season actually start games pretty well. They’ve outscored their opponents 57-30 in the first quarter this season. The Chiefs on the other hand struggle mightily in the first quarter. They’ve been outscored 76-19.

Something has got to give – Inside The Bills
"Kansas City’s pass defense has been torched for big plays all season. They’ve given up a league high 15 pass plays of 40 yards or more. With deep threats like Lee Evans and Terrell Owens on the field I’d like to think the Bills can add to that total."

Bills hope to reverse trend – Inside The Bills
"Since 2005, the Bills are combined 5-11 in the last quarter of the season. The good news is Buffalo is unbeaten in their last four games against AFC West opponents."

Parting of the Red Sea: Arrowhead will be friendlier to Bills : The Buffalo News
"Arrowhead Stadium and its fervent fans used to give Kansas City a major home-field advantage. Not any more. With the Chiefs stumbling and attendance slipping, the confines look a lot friendlier for the Bills."

Bills-Chiefs scouting report : Buffalo Bills : The Buffalo News
Rodney McKissic breaks down today's matchup.

Bills-Chiefs Game Preview - BuffaloBills.com
The Associated Press game preview for today's game.

Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs look to salvage pride | Democrat and Chronicle
"Right now it's just about playing for each other and trying to get some momentum to end this season on a good note," said Lee Evans, the disappointment undeniable in his voice. "I think that's how you've got to approach it and you just stay professional and work every day."

Experts Split on Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills Game - Arrowhead Pride
"The Kansas City Chiefs are preparing to take on the Buffalo Bills in Arrowhead Stadium. Unlike previous weeks, the experts are actually split on this one."

NFL Preview - Buffalo (4-8) at Kansas City (3-9)
The Sports Network preview of today's game.

NFL Game Center: Buffalo Bills at Kansas City Chiefs - 2009 Week 14
Buffalo Bills at Kansas City Chiefs NFL Game Center from NFL.com

Buffalo Bills Game Day (Two Bills Drive)
The Bills blog Two Bills Drive gives their game preview.

Chiefs-Bills scouting report - KansasCity.com
The Kansas City Star and their game preview breaking down team vs. team in several key areas.

Week 14 NFL game previews - USATODAY.com
"Buffalo is surrendering 172.1 rushing yards per game and its undersized front seven is an appealing target for Jamaal Charles. Only four teams in NFL history have finished a season allowing more than 170 rushing yards per game."

Other Bills News
Calls and Effect: AFC East penalty tracker - AFC East Blog - ESPN
Jairus Byrd leads the division with 3 penalties of 15 yards - two unsportsmanlike conduct penalties and one offsetting unnecessary roughness. Two other Bills, cornerback Reggie Corner and linebacker Kawika Mitchell, have been zapped for two 15-yarders. On another note, the Patriots passed the Bills as the most-penalized team in the AFC East by yardage last week.

Bills need tackles, LBs in next draft : Larry Felser : The Buffalo News
"In its last eight drafts, Buffalo selected just one tackle above the fifth round. That was Mike Williams, one of the foremost flops in the team’s history. They must acquire at least two tackles able to protect a quarterback while he tries to locate an open receiver. The next priority is the drafting of linebackers."

Jerry Sullivan: Drafting high would serve Bills well : The Buffalo News
The only time the Bills have picked higher than 8th in the last 25 years they selected Mike Williams. "OK, so they had one top-seven pick in a quarter-century and blew it. Does that mean you run scared from picking high for the rest of eternity? If picking in the middle is so great, how come the Bills have been a joke for so long? "

Owens adopts 81 families - BuffaloBills.com
"Owens’ Catch A Dream Foundation, held its third Annual ‘December to Remember’ event at One Bills Drive for underprivileged families and children. The 81 Western New York families were nominated online at TerrellOwens.com and Owens chose the families he felt were most in need."

Bills Tweets
Nic Harris
Off to KC, possible 2nd start of the season....wish me luck!! Time to Ball out....

Aaron Maybin
GAMEDAY...Time to go to work!!!!!

Keys to Victory: Buffalo Bills at Kansas City Chiefs

Kurupt — Sat, 12 Dec 2009 15:30:13 -0000

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The final quadrant of the season is upon us, as the Buffalo Bills travel to Kansas City to take on the 3-9 Chiefs. Both teams have struggled all year on both sides of the ball and will be looking to take advantage of the weaker aspects of their opponent. The Bills will again be starting Ryan Fitzpatrick, while the Chiefs continue plugging along with the $63 million Matt Cassel experience. This isn't one of the better quarterback battles of the week. The Chiefs present potentially the last winnable game (against starters) for the Bills this year. Let's jump on in to see what they need to do to earn their fifth W.

Run wild: The last couple weeks, the Bills' running game has had some frisky moments. Last week against the Jets, Marshawn Lynch averaged 10 yards per carry and picked up his second touchdown of the season. The week prior, Fred Jackson had over 100 total yards and two touchdowns. The Chiefs are one of the worst defenses in the league trying to shut down the run, allowing 143.8 yards per game. There will be plenty of opportunities to run at this defense. In what should be a brisk afternoon, look for the Bills to try to grind out a victory. Taking advantage of the weak Chiefs front seven will go a long way in deciding the outcome of this game.

Hit a big one or two: The Bills looked to Terrell Owens deep a few times last week, but Darrelle Revis simply shut him down. A pair of Brandons (the dinged up Flowers and Carr) will attempt to duplicate Revis' success against Owen. I like TO's chances of having a bounce back performance, just as I like the potential (but not probability) of a nice Lee Evans game. In yet another game with nothing to lose, I'm guessing Ryan Fitzpatrick will air out some deep ones. Let's hope he hits a few.

Protect the football: The Bills have turned the ball over 5 times in their four victories (1.25 per game) and 18 times in their 8 losses (2.25 per game). If the Bills can hang on to the ball, with say just a lone turnover or none(!) at all, that will bode well for their chances this week. Giving the ball to a weak offense, one that is actually worse than Buffalo's, in good field position is just asking for poor results. Hang on to it Fitzpatrick and friends!

Eliminate Charles: Eliminate sounds so much cooler than "shut down" or "focus on", doesn't it? Jamaal Charles has been most of Kansas City's offense the past month after becoming the Chiefs' starting RB following Larry Johnson's dysfunctional exit. He's a big play threat every time he touches the ball, and has proven that already this season. Expect the Chiefs to run their offense (and kick return unit) through him. The Bills need to avoid giving up a big play to Charles for the same reason they need to protect the football: don't give the Chiefs offense any easy points!

Turn over the Chiefs: Obviously, turnovers have been a huge factor in the Bills' four victories this season. Maybe the biggest factor, actually. In those four games, the Bills defense has forced a whopping 16 turnovers. In their 8 defeats, they've only forced 9 turnovers. Without those key turnovers, the Bills are likely a one or two win team thus far. Against a weak quarterback and overall struggling offense, putting them in 3rd and long situations could easily result in some game-changing turnovers. (Side note: the Bills offense needs to avoid those situations just as much as the Bills defense needs to force the Chiefs into them)

Signs of Life: This is one of those games where it might be pretty easy to determine whether some players are just playing out the string while others are still going full blast. For those looking to remain in Buffalo next year, playing tough and inspired football will really give the new staff reasons to keep these guys around. There's nothing I hate more than a team that gives up and players that quit. I hope the Bills don't do that like they have the past few years.

*******

In what should be the most exciting game of the season (/sarcasm), we will all be hoping for no major injuries and a big play or two. What a sad, indifferent afternoon this is going to be. After this week, only three more games until the Bills Super Bowl... the offseason. Yay, I suppose! Anywho, go Bills! Another 54 point explosion in Arrowhead would be a fun sight to see!