Preseason game review by V-Ry
Photo provide by the Buffalo Bills
Sink or Swim
The Bills defeated the Colts Saturday at home 27-24 in their first preseason action. The Bills didn’t play any of their starters, instead the coaches chose to play the reserves and rookies. The Colts ran with their starters through the first quarter, including quarterback Matt Ryan. The results for the Bills were very mixed as some players shined and others faltered.
The Good
Rookie cornerbacks Kaiir Elam and Christian Benford looked really sharp, breaking up passes and flying to the football. Rookie linebacker Baylon Spector acquitted himself well in pass coverage and was consistently around the ball. On offense, wide receivers Isaiah Hodgins and Khalil Shakir really stood out with crisp route running and a number of spectacular catches.
The Bad
Veteran quarterback and presumed backup Case Keenum had a rough afternoon, turning the ball over several times. Tight end OJ Howard whom the team acquired in free agency struggled with his blocking and was a non-factor in the passing game. The third team defensive line was overmatched throughout the second half, consistently being moved off the ball by the offensive line of the Colts.
My Two Cents
Khalil Shakir is a lock to make the team not only as a pass catcher, but also as a returner. Rookie linebacker Baylon Spector will make Tyler Matakevich expendable. Christian Benford will not only make the team, but will be on the field a lot this season. Matt Araiza will win the punting job over Matt Haack.
What to Watch
The Bills will be on the field again this Saturday at home against the Denver Broncos at 1 PM. It’s the annual kids day preseason game at Highmark Stadium. Expect the coaching staff to keep the majority of the starters on the bench once again.
