Well, the Bills are two weeks into the season and fans can already feel the optimism that surrounds this revamped team. Buffalo has already proved that they can win on the road and it is time for the home opener against the Jets. One week ago, I thought the Bills would come up three points short to the Dolphins because of our defensive line. Did those guys put on the performance of a lifetime or what?! Speaking of performances, Lindell has quietly become one of the best kickers in the league.
This young defensive corps is really making a statement early in the year and if the offense can continue to play mistake free football, people around here are REALLY going to have something to shout about. The coaching staff is easing Losman into the system without asking him to win the game on his own. Now that the defense has regained its’ identity, it will take a lot of the pressure off the young QB and allow him to manage the game. Just wait until Evans hits his stride and Steve Fairchild (the offensive coordinator) starts to open it up a little bit.
The Bills and the Jets both come into this game exceeding expectations and a victory will help the winner keep pace with the Patriots. On paper, the Bills match up very well against the Jets as New York comes in ranking close to last in the league in rushing. One of the weaknesses the Bills have is run defense so that is good news come Sunday.
One statistic the Jets have on their side is their 48% rate of converting third downs. Pennington has carried the Jets through the air so far and I look for that to come to a screeching halt as the Bills front four continue to torment opposing QBs. The rookie safety tandem has exploded on the scene and I expect them to have a busy day as well.
If Spikes comes running out of that tunnel when they announce the defense, I would not be surprised if he actually ate Pennington by the end of the first quarter! Do you think he is going to be fired up? The home crowd is going to be a HUGE advantage for the Bills and I believe that it is going to carry on to the field. Because this does not look like the Bills of old that played down to their competition, I expect them to really put a stamp on this Jets team. Buffalo is a well prepared and disciplined team that is only going to improve as the season goes on.
I cannot wait to get out to the Ralph on Sunday and watch these guys fly around in person. The Jets will be able to hang early but expect a Bills victory by the end of the day.
Prediction:
Buffalo 27
New York 13
Season Prediction 1-1