Breaking down the Buffalo Bills defense through first four games
By Preston Seyl
The Buffalo Bills are 3-1 heading into Week 4, and the defense is a big reason for such a strong start. With all the injuries and revolving pieces on defense Sean McDermott and Leslie Frazier continue to find ways to put the defense in the most advantageous position to succeed.
The Bills’ defense has been without superstar cornerback Tre’Davious White through the first four games and the coaching staff has had to rely on a lot of rookies in Kaiir Elam and Christian Benford. Leslie Frasier and Sean McDermott have done a wonderful job in developing these young rookies, giving them the necessary tool they need to go out and do their job executing the game plan.
The loss of big-time All-Pro safety Micah Hyde is a tough blow for the secondary and defense in general. Yet, the secondary seems to be plenty capable of holding down a formidable unit in the backend. First round draft pick Kaiir Elam has had to step in for the loss of Dane Jackson and Christian Benford, but Elam is oozing with talent and athleticism.
The secondary moving parts haven’t been the downfall of the defense rather than an inexperienced bunch with loads of potential. All the experience they’re getting is invaluable to their development.
The pass rush coming into the season was a hole that needed to be filled, and free agent Von Miller’s presence has made all the difference for the defensive line. Miller currently has three sacks on the year with seven QB hurries according to Pro Football Reference.
He has made a huge impact on this defense that struggled to get the QB to the ground last year. This is no longer a problem and should pay dividends when they eventually see Patrick Mahomes who has been the Buffalo Bills’ kryptonite to their hopes of reaching the Super Bowl.
The Buffalo Bills’ defense has allowed the fewest yards per game (234.5) and second-fewest points per game (14.5) which is impressive when considering the number of injuries they have dealt with and being without Tre’Davious White for the first four games and Micah Hyde for the last two.
They have proven they are one of, if not the best defense in football, after shutting out the Ravens in the second half. When the defense gets some players back they will continue to build as they are motivated to take down the Chiefs and get to the Super Bowl and, it will be the defense that will have to be the ones to slow Patrick Mahomes down.
