Read more on streaming the Buffalo Bills’ important 23-20 victory over the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. With the win, they advanced to 11-4 on the season and had an active four game winning streak. The win was vital as the Bills prepare for the playoffs, but their performance raised questions about their defensive consistency, particularly in the first half of games.
With a little over five minutes remaining in the game, the Bills were faced with a must-have scenario. They were going to need one more staunch defensive stand to secure the win. Defensive end Greg Rousseau was the best player on the field, dominating from the first whistle. He finished with 2.5 sacks while helping prove he can be someone who gets after the QB when it matters.
Still, the game was not without its hiccups. Knox drew a lot of blame for a drop on a touchdown pass in the end zone. Though a small misstep, that missed opportunity could have changed the momentum and put the Bills back in control. Even with this miscue, Buffalo’s defense had balled out the rest of the game.
In past defensive battles, cornerback Christian Benford was instrumental for the Bills, providing game-changing turnovers. With the exception of Jones, against the Browns, it was this entire defense that took turns proving how strong their collective depth is. Safety Jordan Poyer and defensive tackle DaQuan Jones both made athletic and impressive interceptions. Their incredible defensive effort helped them earn the victory.
Though they’ve been successful, the Bills’ first half performance was eyebrow-raising. This year, they’ve allowed 23 touchdowns on the opening half of games. That statistic ties them for 27th in the league. Additionally, they have struggled on third downs, permitting opponents to convert 50.5% of their attempts in the first half, ranking them 31st in that category.
Head Coach Sean McDermott didn’t shy away from those issues in his post game remarks.
“Defensively didn’t start as well, came back in the second half and did some things to help us win the game there, obviously,” – Sean McDermott
Buffalo’s offense started off with three straight touchdown drives after Cleveland. They sputtered in the second half, managing just three points. Quarterback Josh Allen left the field early before halftime due to a right foot injury, raising concerns about his health moving forward.
“Toughness of [the] overall football team, good to see, but still plenty to work on. So we need to do the basics, the basic things better.”
McDermott was understandably sensitive to Allen’s situation after the game. McDermott’s comments showed more concern about his team’s performance than his quarterback’s.
Buffalo’s defensive adjustments after halftime were smart and productive, and the Bills shut down what could have been a Jets comeback while never losing their lead. Babich, the Bills defensive coordinator, lauded his unit’s adaptability to stop any kind of offensive game plan.
“Do we need it to be more consistent? Yes. You can’t allow a team to do what they did,” – Sean McDermott
Previously overlooked here were some huge forces working against the Bills, as this game was an undeniable test by the opponent. New QB Shedeur Sanders met immediate resistance from Buffalo’s ferocious D. He averaged only 2.2 air yards per attempt, easily one of the worst such performances in the last decade.
“They can throw it, they can run it, they can do it all,” – Bobby Babich
Looking forward, Buffalo’s defensive efforts will be key when they begin to face playoff competition. It will be their capacity to adapt and seize opportunity that will probably help the tide through pressure-packed moments.
Looking ahead, Buffalo’s defensive performance will be crucial as they prepare for upcoming playoff games. Their ability to make adjustments and capitalize on turnovers will likely determine their success in high-stakes situations.
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