With the 4-2 Buffalo Bills losing their second game in a row, and the 4-2 New England Patriots on the horizon, now is not the time to take things lightly.
It couldn't have come at a better time in the Bills' schedule for their bye week, as they have many issues to address before their next games against the Carolina Panthers in Week 8.
Key issues the Bills must tackle heading into Week 8
1. Rest to get players healthy in bye week
Every team in the NFL deals with injuries, especially since the 17-game season began in 2021. The Bills are coping without rookie defensive tackle TJ Sanders, who was recently placed on IR and will miss the next four games.
They also had defensive tackle DaQuan Jones, who injured himself in warmups before the Monday night game against Atlanta, and he is now week-to-week with a calf injury. The injuries that occurred during the game didn't help either.
With the extra week's rest, it will surely help reduce the wear and tear these injuries place on players' bodies.
2. Get running back James Cook in the game more
While having one of the best running backs in the NFL, it's hard to believe that Cook wasn't utilized more in the game last Monday night.
He only managed to total 17 carries for 87 yards after having three straight 100-yard games this season.
Cook was also not on the field for any of their third-down and short situations, even when OC Joe Brady called a "bizarre" end-around play where wide receiver Elijah Moore fumbled the ball.
Yes, Cook may have been overused in the first four games of the season to keep him fresh for later in the year. But for now, they should use him for his talent and speed to get the first down yardage needed to win games, then worry about the rest of the season.
3. Upgrade for talented players in trade deadline
With the trade deadline ending on November 4, the Bills' management really needs to look for some skilled receivers. Quarterback Josh Allen really needs that No. 1 receiver who can create separation in man coverage and make the spectacular catch in traffic.
Right now, the Bills have solid possession receivers who all excel in route running, but they lack speed. Therefore, it's critical to address their deep-ball receiver's need to help Allen in long-passing situations.
4. Figure out run defense
This was supposed to be an area of strength coming into the season as the Bills invested heavy in free agency and the draft with more beef and speed on the interior defensive line. But after six games into the season, the Bills have more questions than answers in stopping the run heading into the bye week.
In the game against Atlanta, the Falcons totalled 443 yards by running back Bijan Robinson and wide receiver Drake London combined.
Even with some of the previous injuries mentioned to the interior D-line, the Bills will be getting some reinforcements back as defensive end Michael Hoecht and defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi will return after each served 6-game suspensions for PED violations. Both will look to make their first impressions to help the defense in Week 8.