BuffaLowDown’s DJ Eberle breaks down the Buffalo Bills’ Week 12 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars, including the three keys to the game.
After a week off, the Buffalo Bills have the chance to stack together consecutive wins for the first time this season on Sunday.
In a matchup against the lowly Jacksonville Jaguars, and with the return of Josh Allen under center, the Bills have a good chance to do just that.
But how?
Each week during the regular season this column will provide the three ways the Bills can secure a victory. So, without further ado, here are the “Three Keys to Victory” for the matchup against the Jaguars.
Take away the Jacksonville running game
Whether it’s Leonard Fournette, Carlos Hyde or T.J. Yeldon carrying the ball, there’s talent coming out of the Jacksonville backfield.
By now you’re likely aware that the Bills have the second-best defense (according to yards per game) in the league. If you break it down further, they’re first against the pass and ninth against the run.
Buffalo’s secondary will likely shut Blake Bortles and Co. down. In fact, expect an interception or two.
The key is slowing down the running game.
The return of Trent Murphy could be a huge boost for the front seven. With some key Jacksonville offensive linemen expected out, or at the very least less than 100 percent, Buffalo will have an advantage up front.
Get LeSean McCoy in open space
Like the Bills, Jacksonville sports a vaunted passing defense, giving up the third fewest yards through the air per game.
But you can run the ball against Jacksonville. They rank 15th.
LeSean McCoy is coming off his best game of the season, and with Allen back in the starting lineup, opposing defenses shouldn’t stack the box as much anymore.
While the offensive line will likely still struggle, McCoy should be able to have some success in the open field.
If the Bills can get McCoy going early, Allen will have a much easier time in the passing game.
Get a takeaway, or two
The Bills are minus-seven in turnover margin this season.
While the offense has given up the ball at a terrible rate, the defense hasn’t been able to come away with many, either.
In a game that’s expected to be an offensive struggle, an extra possession or two will go a long way.
Prediction: Bills 24, Jaguars 17
Buffalo scores a touchdown on either defense or special teams.
With a strong defensive effort, McCoy carries the load on offense and Allen finds the end zone through the air. Against Jalen Ramsey.