On Saturday, the Buffalo Bills played the first of their three preseason games for the 2023 NFL season. The Bills won the game 23-19. I understand that the score in a team's first preseason game is generally insignificant. It's also difficult to draw conclusions after one game, but even with this small sample size, I believe there are some highlights that deserve attention.
The two biggest offensive stars, Josh Allen and Stefon Diggs sat out this game. However, another key starter, running back James Cook, did start the game, and made immediate and favorable contributions. Four carries, 20 yards, and a touchdown were enough to allow others in the backfield to show their talents, even as Cook solidified his position as the featured RB heading towards the regular season. With Damien Harris sitting out due to injury, running backs Jordan Mims and Latavius Murray showed promise, each averaging around 3.5 yards per carry. An assortment of Wide Receivers shared playing time as well, with a total of 11 targeted at some point in the game, and 8 catching at least one pass. KeeSean Johnson, Andy Isabella, and Marcell Ateman led the way, each with over 40 yards receiving. Tyrell Shavers and Dezmon Patmon each scored touchdowns, with 38 and 35 receiving yards respectfully.
On the defensive side of the ball, most projected starters did see action for at least two series. Some highlights include an interception by Dane Jackson, and a team leading 7 tackles by rookie linebacker Dorian Williams. An outstanding feel-good moment with this group was seeing Damar Hamlin return to game action for the first time since his near-death experience on the field last January. He contributed 3 solo tackles in an excellent, inspirational effort. Overall, the defense made it very difficult for the Colts 4th overall pick QB Anthony Richardson to establish any consistent ball movement, and a resulting 39.2 QB rating.
The question now, after this first game is how are some of the position competitions affected? Some key position battles are at middle linebacker, cornerback, and wide receiver. At this time, I don't see any of these battles being decided, especially with two preseason games still to go. However, some players either provided an advantage for themselves, or in some cases, put their name in the hat to be considered. At linebacker, Terrel Bernard is said to have the lead for the starting spot. However, he missed the game due to a hamstring injury. A competitor for the spot, Tyrel Dodson played well, with two tackles, but did little to impress in raising his status. At cornerback, leading candidate Dane Jackson had the game's only interception, and saw no further action, confirming him to be a leading candidate for the starting position. One last defensive note to mention is the outstanding play of the defensive line. Not only did the starters contribute their fair share, but potential third stringers such as Boogie Basham and free agent pickup Poona Ford were impressive as well. Basham had a sack with his three tackles, and played very inspirational defense during his time in the game.
Perhaps no position for the Bills has more depth than wide receiver. However, the quality of that quantity still remains to be seen. Still, impressive performances by previously mentioned receivers will make the final decisions a bit more difficult. Andy Isabella also made a case with a couple of excellent kickoff returns.
One final debate to discuss is that of backup quarterback. Projected number two Kyle Allen did nothing significant to impress. Matt Barkley on the other hand completed 14 of 15 passes for 172 yards and two touchdowns. Yes, it was against a mostly third team defense by that point, but the 154 quarterback rating speaks for itself no matter who it's against. Keep an eye on this situation in future matchups.
Many will say that NFL preseason games are insignificant, and in some ways they are. However, I find it very interesting watching both new and old players perform, and it makes for some very interesting discussion as we move closer to the final roster deadline and the start of the season. Stay tuned for Game two!!
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