Bills vs Patriots: Five players to watch

Sep 13, 2015; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills running back

(29) runs for a touchdown during the first half against the Indianapolis Colts at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Bills beat the Colts 27-14. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports

Karlos Williams

Karlos Williams’ NFL career couldn’t have gotten off to a better start, as he ran for a 26-yard touchdown on his first ever regular season carry. (He did the same on his first carry in college.) He ended the day rushing for a game-leading 55 yards.

The Bills are going to need more of the same against the Patriots – in fact, probably more. As things stand, LeSean McCoy‘s status for Sunday is uncertain.

The 2013 NFL rushing leader left practice on Thursday, with hamstring tightness, and while Rex Ryan is hopeful, there are no guarantees. As such, Williams’ importance has now been magnified.

The rookie back had his own injury issues to deal with during preseason. However, he’s said he is now 100 percent recovered from the undisclosed surgery, and is eager to prove himself against New England.

Williams has had his running style compared to a certain Eric Dickerson. He shot up the depth charts during training camp, giving the Bills enough confidence to release the extremely popular Fred Jackson.

If I’m honest, I’m still not happy with that move by Doug Whaley (not that I don’t understand the reasons’ why Jackson was cut). However, if Williams can have a good game on Sunday, it will further justify the general manager’s decision.

Next: Can he stand the heat against Brady?