Buffalo Bills vs. Washington Commanders: 3 key players to watch on offense

2.) Dawson Knox

One of the reasons why the Bills’ offense was able to move the chains effectively was the short-yardage game by bringing the routes closer to Josh Allen. While rookie tight end Dalton Kincaid has been targeted more, veteran tight end Dawson Knox has been a security blanket for Allen since the two teamed up in 2019.

Against the Raiders, Knox was targeted five times and caught three passes for only 10 yards, but one of those catches was for a touchdown. On the season, Knox has been targeted nine times total and has 35 yards on the season. 

Knox is not meant to be the big pass-catcher down the field, but he can be that main target on those third down and short plays to move the chains. He can also be one of the bigger targets for the end zone and run along the goal line to provide the simple throw from Allen.

If the Bills find themselves in third down situations against the Commanders, look for Knox to be one of the first weapons that Allen looks for which can allow the playbook to open up for the rest of the receiving core on the earlier downs of a drive.