Buffalo Bills: There is no focal point on the offense

The Buffalo Bills have a glaring problem at quarterback, but the issues on offense run much deeper than just one position.

It is easy for anyone to make jokes about Nathan Peterman. Buffalo Bills fans have watched him put up historically bad numbers as he continues to get more chances.

But yesterday’s loss is not entirely on Peterman. And while the offense struggled immensely once again, the problems are due to a lack of talent and execution at all 11 positions.

There is just no focal point on offense. No one player who is seen as the individual who can be relied upon in tough times.

Kelvin Benjamin is listed at the team’s No. 1 receiver. So far he only has 20 receptions for 302 yards on the year. That is 20 receptions on 53 targets. Not all of the missed connections are his fault, but most Bills fans can think of several key drops or balls he just doesn’t fight for in nearly every game this year.

Then there is LeSean McCoy. He is second on the team in rushing so far in what is the worst season of his career. He finished yesterday’s game with 10 yards on 10 carries. That comes one week after he had 13 yards on 12 carries.

McCoy’s best game was when he had 85 rushing yards in the win over the Tennessee Titans. He has finished with fewer than 40 yards in six of the eight games he has played in this season.

Part of the reason he has been so ineffective is because the Bills keep getting in deficits early. The offense is forced to move away from the running game, and any run play is rather basic and predictable. Teams are bringing constant pressure against this offensive line, as seen against the Chicago Bears, and McCoy doesn’t stand a chance.

The offense line is a whole other story. Peterman took huge hits all game against the Bears while we know how McCoy did. It seems as if Brandon Beane was either unprepared or simply had too much faith in the players along the line.

He was dealing with several retirements, but he still had time to try to plug the gaps. Instead, the quarterbacks are paying the price.

This situation is so frustrating because it is hard to even get excited for games and there are seven remaining. The eventual return of Josh Allen should help spark some excitement, but it will be concerning to watch him back there if the line remains so bad.