As the Bills head into preseason game number two, the Bills are just looking for some improvement upon the eyesore that was their 42-17 loss against the Redskins. What better way to gauge themselves than to take on the reigning conference champions, the Indianapolis Colts.
The Bills are said to be letting the first team play longer into the second quarter in tonight’s game. It will be a chance for Trent Edwards to try and establish a rhythm beyond the first possession. It will be interesting to see what kind of weight the Bills put on C.J. Spiller’s shoulders in what is expected to be his first NFL start. The Colts aren’t known for their run defense, so in a regular season game, you’d expect that a heavy burden would be placed on the starting RB. This could be a showcase for what the Bills can expect from Spiller early this season.
Defensively, the Bills new 3-4 couldn’t face a tougher task than trying to slow down the great Peyton Manning and the Colts’ vaunted aerial attack. In Manning’s first preseason game, he went 8-10 with 91 yards, leading the Colts to 10 points on his two drives. In other words, it’s going to be difficult for Trent to look good by comparison tonight. Let’s see how the Bills’ secondary holds up against the Colts’ receivers, and if they can generate any kind of pass rush on Indy’s starting offensive line.
Some more familiar faces should return tonight. The offensive line should have OG Eric Wood and OT Demetrius Bell back for a few snaps tonight. Coach Chan Gailey also said that ILB Paul Posluszny and OLB Chris Kelsay will see their first action of the season.
Against my better judgment, the Bills will be starting George Wilson at FS in start of the injured Jairus Byrd. If you see Manning take any shots down the field, look to see if George manages to stay in your television screen.
QB Brian Brohm will get the lion’s share of reps tonight with the second team offense. He’ll get his chance after a DNP in game one of the preseason. Ryan Fitzpatrick was solid in his appearance against the Redskins, and will have the night off.
I’ll still be watching to see the tight ends for the Bills. I’m still hoping Shawn Nelson can work his way into the starting lineup. Jonathan Stupar continues to hold down the top spot on the depth chart. While Stupar appears to be an intelligent player who works hard, his upside isn’t nearly as high as Nelson’s.
Also watch the outside backers for the Bills to see how they perform. There could be some jostling for position. Starters Chris Kelsay and Reggie Torbor will be trying to hold off Chris Ellis, who made a nice showing for himself against the Redskins. We’ll see if Aaron Maybin makes more plays or penalties, and continue to monitor the progress of undrafted Antonio Coleman.
Most importantly, as any Bills’ fan of the last couple of years will tell you, you have to watch out for this. Let’s just hope Pat Summerall isn’t broadcasting tonight.
Check back tomorrow to see Paul’s analysis of the game and to voice your own opinions.