Buffalo Bills: Takeaways from preseason win over Carolina Panthers

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - AUGUST 16: Rashaan Gaulden #28 of the Carolina Panthers tackles Isaiah McKenzie #19 of the Buffalo Bills during the second quarter of their preseason game at Bank of America Stadium on August 16, 2019 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

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CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA – AUGUST 16: Isaiah McKenzie #19 of the Buffalo Bills breaks away from Ross Cockrell #47 of the Carolina Panthers during the second quarter of their preseason game at Bank of America Stadium on August 16, 2019 in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

Isaiah McKenzie takes lead in training camp battle

The battle for the final wide receiver spot seemingly has come down to Isaiah McKenzie and Ray Ray McCloud, with McCloud taking the early lead. However, McKenzie has now put together two solid performances in the preseason and has passed McCloud for that final spot.

After leading the Bills in receiving against the Colts, McKenzie only had one reception but took it for 37 yards. The former Denver Bronco is known for his speed, however what was so impressive about his play was his patience. He caught a screen pass from Matt Barkley and was patient enough to let his blockers get in place before breaking past the line of scrimmage for a big gain.

Meanwhile, Ray Ray McCloud finished the game with one reception for zero yards on two targets.

While McKenzie has taken the lead, the battle for that final spot is far from over with two preseason games left. The coaching staff will likely want as much tape as possible before making a decision but McKenzie should feel good about his performance to date.

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