49ers Vs. Bills Game Preview: Defense Is Key
By Jack Goods
Sep 23, 2012; Cleveland, OH, USA; Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Marcell Dareus (99) receives congratulations from defensive end Mario Williams (94) after he sacks Cleveland Browns quarterback Brandon Weeden (not pictured) during the fourth quarter at Cleveland Browns Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-US PRESSWIRE
After a horrendous game against the Patriots the Bills have a chance to redeem themselves. Unfortunately they are facing one of their hardest tests all season, matching up against the upswing San Francisco 49ers.
The 49ers are currently 3-1, needing a victory to tie the Cardinals for the division lead. Last week they demolished the New York Jets 34-0, giving up only 145 yards to the Jets defense. Three 49ers ran for 50 or more yards, including backup quarter back Colin Kaepernick. Frank Gore should be a huge factor as the Niners should be trying to take advantage of the Bills woes on the run defense.
The Bills will be without offensive linemen Cordy Glenn and Craig Urbik, which is a big blow to the Bills offense. Filling in the wholes will most likely be Chris Hairston and Chad Rinehart. Rinehart is questionable with a calf injury and did not participate in practice on Friday. Gailey plans on Rinehart playing this weekend, but if not Colin Brown was taking snaps in practice.
Jairus Byrd is questionable with a high pointer injury. He missed out on practice at the start of the week but has participated both Thursday and Friday. Spencer Johnson is out of the lineup this week on the defense.
The defense is coming off of a devastating second half in a game which they allowed to of the Patriots running backs to run for over 100 yards. Mario Williams had another lackluster game, and Kyle Williams had arguably his worst performance of the season. For the Bills to have any chance of victory there needs to be pressure on Alex Smith. A stronger run defense will also be needed. Gore is a much better back than who they matched up against last week, but factor in that they don’t need to focus on Smith nearly as much as they needed to for Brady.
One of the players who had the best day last week was Stephon Gilmore, who made some excellent plays. Gilmore and Aaron Williams will need to shut down the 49ers numerous weapons. Williams has been inconsistent this season, but needs to put in a good performance this week.
This is a game that on paper the Bills should not win and will require all players to be at their best. Kickoff is at 4:05 from Candlestick Park tomorrow afternoon.