In 2010 it took Chan Gailey more than half a season just to win a game. In 2011 they got that out of the way quickly. While it is important not to make too much out of the Bills destruction of a troubled Chiefs team, let’s not dismiss the fact that Buffalo took advantage of all of those mistakes and performed their own KC Masterpiece. Ryan Fitzpatrick is currently the top rated passer in the NFL. That information and 4 bucks will get you a latte at Starbucks. But the offense line looked strong. Fred Jackson and Stevie Johnson played like #1 guys and the defense dominated.
When the Bills looked awful in a preseason game in Denver Nick Barnett smiled and told fans to “not sell their season tickets” After Sunday’s win I am reminding fans to not start call Orchard Park to ask about playoff seats. But I see games like this as ones that can start to change the culture of losing in Buffalo. The Bills have a chance to come home Sunday and play a Raiders team that will not crossing the country but playing on a short week. Buffalo has an excellent chance to go to 2-0 and have the Ralph rocking when the Patriots come to town the next week. Playing in games that actually matter is how that culture starts to change.
If the Bills would have lost yesterday I would have been saying the same thing. You cannot make too much out of the opening game. But the difference would be losing is what people expect out of the Bills. At some point they have to change that expectation and games like the one in Kansas City Sunday can be the start of that change. Chan Gailey had to feel immense satisfaction yesterday beating the team that fired him, but he knows how quickly things can change.
Most impressive players
1) Ryan Fitzpatrick: He looked like a quality NFL starter. Fitz threw with confidence and used the Tom Brady theory of passing. His favorite receiver was the open one.
2) Fred Jackson: The Pro’s Pro. Fred makes more out of his ability than any player on the team and arguably any player in the NFL. He runs from point A to point B with an economy of motion. I wish CJ Spiller would literally follow his lead
3) Stevie Johnson: The TD catch was the one #1 receivers make. Can you believe he made all those plays without Lee Evans getting double teamed on the other side (Sarcasm alert)
4) Scott Chandler. He looks more like a backup power forward for the Knicks. But at 6-8 the new tight end was a true go to for Fitz from a forgotten position in Buffalo.
5) Eric Wood: The center and his entire offense line. They were outstanding yesterday allowing just one sack and running at will. That might be the most thrilling part of the week.
Least impressive players:
1) Brad Smith: This is a total stretch because I had to pick someone. The Wildcat produced just 6 yards (one run for first down) and he threw a meaningless interception. I think Smith will have a key role as the season goes forward.
I picked the Bills to win by 3 so I’ll take the “victory” but I never saw a 5 touchdown blowout. But it will be fun going to the Ralph on Sunday for the home opener
MCatalana@13wham.com
