Buffalo Bills: 3 key matchups in Week 2 against the Miami Dolphins

Jan 3, 2021; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Stefon Diggs (14) slides before being hit by Miami Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard (25) and strong safety Bobby McCain (R) during the second quarter at Bills Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

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Sep 12, 2021; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Stefon Diggs (14) runs with the ball after a catch around Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Tre Norwood (21) during the first half at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports /

WR Stefon Diggs vs. CB Xavien Howard

After not playing at all during the preseason while nursing a knee injury, Stefon Diggs returned to action with a solid effort against the Steelers. The All-Pro wide receiver converted 14 targets into nine receptions for 69 yards in Buffalo’s season-opening loss while matching up mostly with Pittsburgh corner James Pierre.

If the previous matchup between the Bills and Dolphins is any indication, Diggs will face a much taller task this upcoming week.

In Week 17’s contest against Miami, Diggs squared off mostly with defensive back Xavien Howard and it seems likely that Howard will travel to Diggs’ side of the field in Week 2.

In the Dolphins’ Week 1 victory over the Pats, Howard looked just as good as he did last year. The 2020 NFL interception king was mainly responsible for covering Jakobi Meyers, and he did an excellent job at keeping the Patriots’ receiver in check.

It’ll be a battle between two premier players at their respective positions when Diggs and Howard go toe-to-toe. The winner of this duel will greatly enhance its team’s chances of winning, as both players are absolute game-changers.

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