Buffalo Bills: 5 keys to beat the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 9
By Brandon Ray
2.) Run the ball early and often
One positive factor about the Bills this season compared to prior seasons is the improvement of the run game. The lead back in James Cook has taken a step forward from his rookie season last year and has helped the Bills run-attack become a game that forces defenses to defend.
The Bills are averaging 113 yards on the ground and it is, for once, not all because of Josh Allen. The Bengals have a below average run defense through the first eight weeks, giving up over 100 rushing yards in 5 out of 7 games played (4 games of allowing 140+ rushing yards).
In Buffalo’s five wins on the season, they have rushed for over 100 yards in each of them. In the three losses, the Bills averaged 69 rushing yards. Not only does it keep the passing game from being forced, but it keeps Cincinnati’s offense off the field and can make them play from behind.