Even though it hasn’t even been 48 hours since the Buffalo Bills’ big win over the Houston Texans, the Bills have limited time to celebrate because they will kick off Week 2 on the NFL schedule on Thursday Night Football. Buffalo's offense didn't miss a beat against Houston's elite defense, but the defense has some things to clean up going up against a tough Lions offense.
Even though there was a lot of like about the Bills' performance against the Texans, Week 1 is a chance to see what weaknesses they have and how they need to improve it. Some might be able to be fixed immediately, while others could take some time.
Going into Thursday night, the Bills have 3 areas of improvement that have limited time to fix this week if they want to start out the season at 2-0.
Bills must fix 3 key areas to go 2-0
Get James Cook, rushing attack going
While Josh Allen and the passing attack found success against the Texans, Buffalo couldn’t get the rushing game going with James Cook. As a team, the Bills only rushed for 86 yards with Cook leading the way 57 yards. We know that the Bills’ rushing attack can open up the pass, so it will be important for Joe Brady to utilize Cook on the ground more than usual.
Even though the Lions only gave up 91 yards on the ground against the Saints, their offense was focused more on passing as Tyler Shough threw the ball 56 times. So, Detroit’s defense could face a major challenge with Cook carrying the ball.
Cut down on the penalties
For as great as the Bills are, they one of the most undisciplined teams in terms of penalties. That didn't change against the Texans as they had 10 penalties for 85 yards. That is completely unacceptable, and you could make the case that it would have played a major factor if the Bills had ended up losing this game.
Four out of the five starting offensive linemen had penalties, whether it was a hold or an illegal man down the field call. The secondary was also called for some hold penalties. Joe Brady talked about it in his press conference on Monday about how the penalties played a factor, per Sal Capaccio.
Defense needs major improvement
The Texans are not known for having a high-scoring offense, but they managed to put up 31 points on the Bills' defense. Not to mention, they had the chance to win it late in the game, but then Deone Walker and Greg Rousseau ruined those chances.
Buffalo's defense, led by defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard, allowed the Texans to gain 381 total yards of offense and convert 7/16 of their third-down conversions.
Now, the Bills will take on a Lions offense that can light up the scoreboard through the air and on the ground. It's going to be a major test for the Bills' defense and it could get out of hand if they can't contain Detroit's offense.
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