8 and Uh-Oh

Bills TE Scott Chandler has become a major weapon in Buffalo's
passing game since joining the team in 2010.
(Source: Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images North America)

The only undefeated team remaining in the NFL this season will have its work cut out this Sunday. Ralph Wilson Stadium will be rocking the whiteout as the (3-5) Buffalo Bills look to upset the (8-0) Kansas City Chiefs. If you think this game is another mark in the loss column, think again. Here are five reasons why the Buffalo Bills will knock off the unbeaten Kansas City Chiefs:

1. The possible return of the two-headed monster: The Buffalo Bills will likely get their biggest weapon on offense back for week nine, running back C.J. Spiller. The former Clemson Tiger sat out last week against New Orleans due to a high ankle sprain. Buffalo ranks 7th in NFL this season in rushing yards per game, which is an amazing statistic given the health of their running backs. Team captain and running back Fred Jackson has had to fight all season long through nagging injuries of his own, while leading the team in rushing with 425 yards on 101 attempts (4.2 AVG). If a healthy Spiller gets the nod on Sunday, Kansas City will be playing chase all game long. 

2. Chief's struggling in the passing game- Kansas City quarterback Alex Smith has received a tremendous amount of praise this season for the success of the team, but his stats might tell you otherwise. Kansas City sits 24th overall in passing yards per game this season with just over 200. Let's not forget that their leading receiver is running back Jamaal Charles. Smith likes to play in small blocks, meaning he's comfortable with passes in the 1-10 range and checkdowns. When Smith decides to throw the ball 21 yards down the field or longer this season, the former number one overall pick only completes 3 of 13 balls (23%). The ineffectiveness of wide receiver Dwayne Bowe might have something to do with the absence of a deep threat thus far. Kansas City has relied heavily on the rushing attack this year, averaging 122 yards per contest. Although this is their weapon, Buffalo will have an answer for it in week nine.

3. Mr. Big Stuff and company- Former Buffalo Bills great Bruce Smith, went on record of saying that this year's defensive line is the best in franchise history. Although the numbers haven't quite showed it, Smith might be onto something. The Defensive line consists of Mario Williams (11 SACKS), Kyle Williams (38 TKL) and "Mr. Big Stuff" Marcell Dareus (29 TKL), all strong candidates to the make the Pro Bowl this season. With talent like linebacker Kiko Alonso, cornerback Stephon Gilmore and safety Jairus Byrd behind them, Buffalo has the potential to go off at any time. 

4. Chandler finding the end zone- Since tight end Scott Chandler was picked up by Buffalo at the end of the 2010 season, he's become an absolute nightmare for Kansas City. In the season open in 2011, Chandler caught five balls for 63 yards and two touchdowns. The following season Chandler snagged only two balls but gained 53 yards and put up a score. Even though the Chiefs have had success this year in defending the tight end, look for number 84 to repeat history. 

5. Fandemonium- Orchard Park, NY is has a tremendous atmosphere on gameday, but this week nine matchup will bring the best out of the fans. Expect the 12th man to be in full effect in a game where fans are encouraged to completely whiteout Ralph Wilson stadium. The fans at Arrowhead might be loud, but there is nothing like the hostile environment at the Ralph. Former Bills radio announcer Van Miller might have tell everyone to "fasten their seat belts," because this place will be "fandemonium!"

Byrd to Take Flight?

Bills FS Jairus Byrd has been a trade possibility since signing
his free agent tender in August.
(Source: Paul Connors/AP Photo)

The NFL trade deadline is Tuesday, October 29 at 4:00 PM ET and Buffalo might be active. Buffalo Bills' franchise safety Jairus Byrd could be on the move, but there's a catch. According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, Buffalo is only interested in trading Byrd if they can get a young talent, not a draft pick, for the Pro Bowl safety. Although this move is highly unlikely, Buffalo could use a big wide receiver or even a cornerback in return for Byrd. 

Here are some players around the league that are rumored to be on the trading block: Jacksonville Jaguars running back Maurice Jones-Drew, Oakland Raiders running back Darren McFadden, Minnesota Vikings defensive end Jared Allen, Washington Redskins tight end Fred Davis, New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks, Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald and Cleveland Browns wide receiver Josh Gordon. 

For the latest trade updates around the league, follow me on twitter @TonyMiller716.

Bills Fall Flat, Saints Brees to Victory

The Buffalo Bills defense was exposed by Saints QB Drew Brees
 on this TD to WR Lance Moore.
(Source: Derick E. Hingle/USA TODAY Sports)

The 5-1 Saints came off their bye week to face the 3-4 Bills on familiar turf. Prior to kickoff, Buffalo announced running back C.J. Spiller and line backer Manny Lawson were officially ruled inactive, while New Orleans' star tight end Jimmy Graham was given the thumbs up.

Electing to receive, Buffalo took over from their own 20 after a touchback. The first play from scrimmage was an absolute nightmare for the Bills offense. Quarterback Thad Lewis lined up in the shotgun with running back Fred Jackson to his right, the ball was snapped and appeared to be running a read option. Lewis took off to his left, finding a small hole before being clobbered by Saints line backer David Hawthorne. Lewis taking a shot to the ribs and turned the ball over in the process. New orleans recovered while Lewis stayed on the ground. Lewis eventually walked off gingerly,  but returned on the next series.

The remainder of the game consisted of little Buffalo offense, penalties, and big plays from the Saints through the air.

New Orleans' quarterback Drew Brees started off the day rusty deep in Bills territory, unable to find a groove. Brees finally hit wide receiver Lance Moore on a slant to take the 7-0 lead. The Bills took advantage of only being down one touchdown after two Lewis fumbles with a strike from Lewis to wide receiver Stevie Johnson for a score, tying the game at 7-7. Things drastically changed right before the end of the half after a field goal from Bills kicker Dan Carpenter (10-7). Brees found wide receiver Kenny Stills on a busted coverage for a 69-yard throw and catch, giving New Orleans a 14-10 lead. After a Bills quick 3-and-out, punter Brian Moorman was forced to boot the ball back. After a few completions and some helpful flags from Buffalo, the Saints found themselves in the oppositions territory. Brees methodically worked his magic, finding his favorite red zone target, Graham, on a 15-yard touchdown with just under one minute remaining in the half.

After returning from the locker room, the game gradually turned into the Drew Brees show. The Super Bowl XLIV MVP added two more touchdowns on the day, finishing with a final stat line of 26 for 34, 332 yards and 5 touchdowns. While New Orleans thrived, Buffalo struggled consistently to get something going. Jackson rushed for a grand total of 5 yards and a touchdown in the second half and Lewis thew for 126 yards to go along with an interception in the second half. 

If it wasn't bad enough, Buffalo was yet again hit with the injury bug. Running back Tashard Choice left the game early and wide receiver Stevie Johnson limped the whole game dealing with an injured groin. 

Buffalo would eventually lose to New Orleans 35-17. The score doesn't show how close this game was and should have been. Buffalo did not take advantage of opportunities and kept multiple drives for the Saints alive with penalties. 

Buffalo falls to 3-5 as the Saints march to 6-1 on the season. Buffalo will be in action next week as they take on the undefeated Kansas City Chiefs at Ralph Wilson Stadium.

Even in a loss, there were some bright spots, including rookie wide receiver Marquise Goodwin making some spectacular fingertip grabs. Although his numbers weren't remarkable, Goodwin continued to impress.

Three stars for the Bills in week eight:

1. Stevie Johnson- 7 REC, 72 YDS, 1 TD 
2. Kyle Williams- 6 TKLS, 1.5 SACK
3. Brian Moorman- 3 P, 137 YDS, 45.7 AVG

Thadisfied?

Bills QB Thad Lewis gives a thumbs up during his first start
with Buffalo in week six.
(Source: Tom Szczerbowski/Getty Images)

Bills quarterback Thad Lewis has started in two games this season, winning his first as a starter last week at Miami. After being promoted from the practice squad, it's safe to say the majority of fans are satisfied with Thad's performance thus far.

Lewis has completed 40 of 64 passes for 418 yards, 2 touchdowns and only 1 interception. It seems as though Lewis is rather comfortable with offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett's system and is extremely wise in making quick decisions. Maybe this has something to do with Lewis' time spent at Duke University. Blue Devils head coach David Cutcliffe has a rich history of developing elite quarterback's. Cutcliffe coached both of the Manning brothers during both of their careers at Tennessee and Ole Miss. 

Number 9 has been a pleasant surprise for Bills fans, giving them some hope until first round pick, E.J. Manuel returns sometime next month. Lewis will have his first big test on the road this week as the Bills take on the Saints in the Superdome. 

With a win, Buffalo will be back in the playoff picture with a 4-4 record going into next weeks matchup against the undefeated Kansas City Chiefs in Orchard Park, NY.

Spiller Out, Mingo In

Bills RB C.J. Spiller will be inactive for Sunday's game
against the Saints.

The Buffalo Bills made some roster moves this morning after head coach Doug Marrone announced starting running back C.J. Spiller will not play this Sunday at the Saints (ankle). 

With running back Fred Jackson banged up and uncertainty with running back Tashard Choice, Buffalo was in search for a third back. The front office didn't look too far for a replacement, as they called up running back Ronnie Wingo from the practice squad. Mingo comes in as an underrated free agent who was released by the Atlanta Falcons early in the season. The former Arkansas Razorback will likely see some NFL action for the first time due to the health of Jackson. 

To make room for Mingo on the 53-man roster, the Bills released cornerback Brandon Burton.

On the other side, New Orleans Saints tight end Jimmy Grahm and defensive end Cameron Jordan practiced today with limited reps. Both were updated to questionable for Sunday's matchup.

Buffalo is looking to win back to back road games for the first time since the 2009 campaign (weeks 6 & 7). 

Mario on Track to Sack Strahan's Record

Bills DE Mario Williams recorded a video-game-like 4.5 sacks
against QB Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers.
(Kevin Hoffman/USA Today Sports)

Buffalo Bills defensive end Mario Williams has been an absolute sack machine this season, living up to his nickname, "Super Mario." Through the first seven games, Williams has recorded 10 quarterback takedowns, a Bills record through that stretch.

New York Giants great Michael Strahan broke the NFL single-season sack record in in 2001 with a whopping 22.5 sacks. If Williams continues his dominance, he'll surpass Strahan by a half sack.

Williams also earned his second Defensive Player of the Week award this season after his dominant performance against the Miami Dolphins. Number 94 took the game into his own hands with a late strip sack, which set up Carpenter with game winning field goal.

When the Bills Go Marching In

Bills P Brian Moorman finds DE Ryan Denny on a 25-yard TD
 pass against the New Orleans Saints in 2009.
 (Source: Rick Stewart/Getty Images North America)

The Buffalo Bills will hit the road yet again this week as they prepare to take on the Super Bowl XLIV champion New Orleans Saints. The game will be played at 1:00 PM ET at the hostile Mercedes-Benz Superdome. 

In the past three matchups, the Saints have completely owned the Bills. On those previous occasions, the Bills have put up a miserable 6.67 points per game, while the Saints produced 23.3 points per game. If that isn't gloomy enough, since 2001, the only Bills player to throw a touchdown pass against the Saints was punter Brian Moorman. Moorman threw a 25-yard pass to former Bills defensive end Ryan Denny on a fake field goal. 

But going into Sunday's game, the Bills have something to encourage fans. There has only been two teams in the NFL this season to score at least 20 points in each of their games, the Denver Broncs and the Buffalo Bills. We all know how effortlessly Saints quarterback Drew Brees can pick apart a defense and score points in bunches. If the Bills can continue to put at least 20 on the scoreboard, they'll be able to hang with any opponent, including the New Orleans Saints.

Scoop and Score Kyle

Bills DE Kyle Williams being mobbed by his teammates
after recovering a fumble late in the game.

After the Bills pulled out a dramatic 23-21 victory over the Dolphins Sunday, fans were treated with footage of the teams congratulatory locker room speech. Head Coach Doug Marrone addressed the team first.

Marrone credited his group on an all around team win, congratulating all three phases of the ball. Marrone was glad to see that the guys had some fun and worked together as a team. The most important thing was somehow, someway, finding a way to win.

The Game ball was given to Bills owner Ralph Wilson, who celebrated his 95th birthday last week.

But the top highlight came during defensive captain Kyle Williams' speech. As Williams began giving some strong and encouraging words to his teammates, emphasizing the amount of guts the team displayed, the squad gave Williams a new nickname, "Scoop and Score Kyle." Referring to the inability to scoop up Tannehill's fumble and get into the end zone late in the final quarter. The entire squad shared a laugh, including Williams who was a good sport throughout. 

When met by the press later on, Williams admitted that he purposely did not try to get up and run. The thought process was simply strategic. Luckily for Kyle, the Bills went on to sink the Dolphins with a last minute field goal.

You can check out the exclusive postgame speech in the video section at BuffaloBills.com

Miami Fumbles Chances, Bills Win

Bills DE Mario Williams was relentless all game long in
Buffalo's win over Miami.

Buffalo came into Miami sitting dead last in the AFC East. After a tough loss to the Bengals last week, the team was looking for redemption against divisional foe, Miami Dolphins.

The Bills defense started the game off hot with a pick-six from cornerback Nickell Robey. The strong play continued with two straight three-and-outs forced. Miami was forced to punt, bringing in quarterback Thad Lewis to lead the way. Lewis manipulated the Dolphins defense throughout the drive using his two big tight ends, Scott Chandler and Lee Smith. Spiller pitched in moving the chains deep in Dolphins territory. Eventually, the drive was capped off with a three-yard burst from running back Fred Jackson. The lead was stretched to 14 with time running down in the first quarter. On the ensuing drive, Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill worked his way into Bills territory. On a third-and-five, Tannehill took a shot to the end zone. Tannehill's touch pass for wide receiver Brian Hartline was left short into double coverage, resulting in an interception by safety Aaron Williams. The Bills took over from the shadows of their own end zone.

After a Moorman punt, the Dolphins needed to find a way to put points on the board. A strong run from running back Lamar Miller gave Miami 30-yards and the ball on Buffalo's 32. Just five plays later, Tannehill found tight end Charles Clay for a touchdown.

The momentum suddenly started building in favor of Miami. 

Miami forced a three-and-out, only using 22 seconds of the game clock. The Dolphins surged back right before the half and cut the lead to three with an easy pitch and catch from Tannehill to wide receiver Brandon Gibson. Buffalo went into the locker room with a 17-14 lead. 

The second half saw more of how Miami ended the first. Buffalo struggled to move the ball and Miami played smart and turnover free. After another three-and-out, Miami took advantage. Converting three third-downs on their longest drive of the game, Tannehill capitalized yet again with Brand Gibson for their first lead of the afternoon.

Trailing 21-17, Buffalo later responded with a 20-yard chip shot from kicker Dan Carpenter.

The following dive was all about the Bills defense. Defensive end Mario Williams came up with a huge sack on second-down, beating the tackle and absolutely punishing Tannehill for it. On the following play, line backer Kiko Alonso sniffed out a Miami throw, dragging down running back Daniel Thomas for a loss. Forced to punt, Miami pinned Buffalo inside their own 20. The upcoming drive had a similar feel to the first drive in overtime last week against Cincinnati. Unfortunately it ended in a three-and-out, forcing another Moorman punt. 

Miami faced a long second down with 2:56 remaining in the fourth. Instead of running the clock, Tannehill dropped back and was quickly met by Mario Williams, resulting in a strip that was recovered by Bills defensive end Kyle Williams. Williams was unable to jump up to advance the ball after the recovery. Buffalo took over with 2:48 on Miami's 34. The smart running by running backs Tashard Choice and Fred Jackson moved the ball effectively down the field, setting up a chance for 31-yard field goal with under a minute to play. With no timeouts left, the Dolphins couldn't ice Bills kicker Dan Carpenter who nailed it right down the middle. 

The former Dolphin stole a win from his former team as Tannehill's hail marry was not answered with no time remaining. 

Bills 24 Dolphins 21 FINAL

The eight game winless road loss in AFC East has ended, head coach Doug Marrone picks up his first division win and Thad Lewis earns his first career win as a starter.

The Bills move to 3-4 on the season, while the Dolphins remain winless in the AFC East and drop to 3-3 overall.

Three stars for the Bills in week seven:

1. Mario Williams- 3 TKLS, 2 TFL, 2 SACK, 1 FF

2. Fred Jackson- 11 CAR, 36 YDS, TD, 4 REC, 49 YDS

3. Dan Carpenter- 3/3 FG, 2/2 XP

Make Yourself at Home

Buffalo will have to find the ground game to beat Miami
 on Sunday.

The Buffalo Bills go into Sunday's matchup against the Miami Dolphins with a dreadful eight straight division road losses. In order for the Bills to make a dent in the AFC East this season, they'll have to pull out a win at Sun Life Stadium.

Head coach Doug Marrone is still in search of his first divisional win, while quarterback Thad Lewis is looking for his first career win as a starter.

Since 2001, this series is all knotted up at twelve games apiece. Perhaps this is due to the fact that both teams have continually tried to find answers at the quarterback and head coaching position. 

Buffalo's QB's since 2001: Alex Van Pelt, Rob Johnson, Drew Bledsoe, J.P. Losman, Kelly Holcomb, Trent Edwards, Ryan Fitzpatrick, Brian Brohm, E.J. Manuel and Thad Lewis.

Buffalo HC's since 2001: Gregg Williams, Mike Mularkey, Dick Jauron, Perry Fewell, Chan Gailey and Doug Marrone. 

Miami's QB's since 2001: Jay Fiedler, Ray Lucas, Brian Griese, A.J. Feely, Sage Rosenfels, Gus Frerotte, Joey Harrington, Daunte Culpepper, Cleo Lemmon, Trent Green, John Beck, Chad Pennington, Chad Henne, Tyler Thigpen, Matt More and Ryan Tannehill.

Miami's HC's since 2001: Dave Wannstedt, Jim Bates, Nick Saban, Cam Cameron, Tony Sparano, Todd Bowles and Joe Philbin.  

This Sunday's matchup will be an ariel attack from former Texas A&M star Ryan Tannehill of the Miami Dolphins. Newly acquired wide receivers Mike Wallace and Brandon Gibson bring star power to an already strong group. Wide receiver Brian Hartline and tight end Charles Clay have led the way with a combined 48 receptions, 629 yards and 4 touchdowns. On top of a strong throwing style offense, Miami comes into Sunday with one of the most physical defenses in the NFL.

To counter Miami's strengths, Buffalo must run the ball efficiently and shut down Miami's receivers with a strong showing from their healthy secondary. Running back C.J. Spiller has been playing most of the season on a bum ankle, but was reported earlier in the week that Spiller is nearing 100% again. Wide receiver Stevie Johnson missed last week's game against Cincinnati (back), but will return to the field this week. This will help Thad Lewis in his second start with Buffalo. Look for the play-action game to be in full swing throughout the day. Don't be surprised if tight end Scott Chandler has a big day.

Matchup to watch: Mario Williams vs. Jonathan Martin and Tyson Clabo- Mario Williams has been earning his money this season. After six games, Williams has recorded 8 sacks and has manhandled almost every offensive line he's faced this year.

Both teams seem to be headed in the right direction, taking the steps that are necessary to building a successful organization. 

Master Carpenter Returning to Miami

Bills K Dan Carpenter went 4 for 4 in the 27-20 loss
to the New York Jets in week 3.

Buffalo Bills kicker Dan Carpenter has been virtually automatic this season. After rookie 6th-round pick Dustin Hopkins injured his groin (IR), the Bills turned to the veteran Carpenter. 

The former University of Montana standout signed with Buffalo after being released by the Miami Dolphins, Arizona Cardinals and the New York Jets. History showed that Carpenter had a cannon for a leg, but wasn't always up to par in the consistency department. With a career long of 60-yards and a field goal percentage of 82.6, special teams coach Danny Crossman was happy to acquire the 27-year-old. 

Since being in Buffalo, Carpenter has gone 12 for 13 with a long of 55. He will face his former team this Sunday as the Bills take on the Dolphins in Miami. 

Carpenter may have earned his spot on the Bills' roster for many years to come. 

Ralph Wilson Turns 95

Bills owner Ralph Wilson, Jr. celebrated his 95th birthday
 this Thursday.

Buffalo Bills Hall of Fame owner Ralph Wilson, Jr. celebrated his 95th birthday today.

Wilson was one of the founding owners of the American Football league, which eventually merged with the National Football League in 1970. The Detroit, Michigan native is the oldest owner in the NFL, and is the last AFL owner to still have his franchise in its original city.

Wilson has been unable to attend a game this season, stating that, "travel continues to be a challenge for me."

The Bills organization will try to give Mr. Wilson the best gift they can give, which is a win against their long-time division rival Miami Dolphins this Sunday.

Turn Up the Heat

Bills HC Doug Marrone brought the heat to Orchard Park
during Wednesday's practice.

After rain forced Buffalo to practice indoors today, head coach Doug Marrone took advantage of what mother nature gave him. Marrone decided to turn up the temperature in the fieldhouse to prepare for Sunday's game in Miami. Although the conditions were not identical, anything will help the team get ready for the humid 88 degree forecast during gametime.

The Buffalo Bills (2-4) are seeking their first division win as they take on AFC East rival Miami Dolphins (3-2).

This is just another example of how the new regime operates in Buffalo. 

Bills Release G Colin Brown

Bills G Colin Brown will have to go job hunting
after being dumped by Buffalo on Tuesday.

Starting one day, unemployed the next. Guard Colin Brown was released this afternoon by the Buffalo Bills. After starting the first five games of the season, coach Doug Marrone didn't see enough production from Brown to keep him on the roster. Brown was battling for the starting left guard position with Doug Legursky.

Due to the release of Brown, the Buffalo Bills made numerous roster moves. Practice squad offensive lineman Mark Asper was promoted to the 53-man roster. Standing at 6-7 and 325 pounds, Asper has continued to show promise since being drafted 178th overall by the Buffalo Bills in 2012.

The Bills also announced the signing of Offensive lineman Bryant Browning and linebacker Jacquies Smith. While releasing defensive end Jamie Blatnick.

Look for a healthy Doug Legursky to add strength to an already proven offensive line.

Bills Acquire QB Matt Flynn

Bills sign former Raiders signal caller Matt Flynn.

As speculated Sunday afternoon, the Buffalo Bills gave former 7th-round pick a workout. Just hours later the team announced the signing of Flynn.

Matt Flynn brings valuable experience to a beaten up quarterback situation in Buffalo.

Flynn backed up Green Bay Packers star Aaron Rodgers from 2008-2010. When Rodgers went down with a concussion, Flynn thrived. His best performance was on January 1, 2012. Flynn threw for 480 yards and 6 touchdowns (both Green Bay records) against the Detroit Lions.

Flynn then landed with the Seahawks in Seattle the following season. But with the emergence of rookie quarterback Russell Wilson, Seattle announced they'd start the rookie and trade Flynn.

The Oakland Raiders decided to take a chance on Flynn when they traded a 5th-round pick for the Tyler, Texas native. It was now a battle between Terrelle Pryor and Matt Flynn. Due to poor play from Flynn and the development of Pryor, Flynn was demoted from first string to third just weeks into the season. Flynn was eventually released by Oakland.

The Buffalo Bills now have a solid situation at quarterback with their new acquisition. With the strong performance of Thad Lewis on Sunday and Matt Flynn's strong presence, the team will have short term help until E.J. Manuel returns from injury (knee).

Thad Lewis is still expected to be the starter when they take on the Miami Dolphins this Sunday.

Nugent Sinks Buffalo in OT

Bengals K Mike Nugent ends Buffalo's late game heroics
with a game-winning 43-yard field goal in OT.

This week six matchup between the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals was an absolute roller coaster ride in Orchard Park, New York.

Filling the shoes of injured quarterback E.J. Manuel was not going to be elementary. With little time to adjust, quarterback Thad Lewis knew he had to go through the week confidently along with using practice time wisely. Lewis seemed to do just that. As a result, Lewis looked like a seasoned veteran against Cincinnati.

It seemed as though the Bills defense leaked one big player after another. Buffalo found themselves down two touchdowns going into the final quarter. Much of the reason being the play of Bengals quarterback Andy Dalton. Dalton rifled the ball down the field consistently and efficiently, setting up opportunities for his speedy playmakers. Wide receivers A.J. Green and Marvin Jones along with running back Giovani Bernard all capitalized on Dalton passes for touchdowns.

Despite the defensive struggle, Buffalo had an opportunity to make a late comeback. Showing poise and command from beginning to end, Lewis was the man to lead the charge. A late touchdown pass to tight end Scott Chandler and a 40-yard game tying bomb to wide receiver Marquis Goodwin, erased the 14 point deficit to force overtime.

The Bengals won the overtime coin toss and intelligently elected to receive. Unable to get into scoring position, Cincinnati was forced to punt, pinning Buffalo deep inside their own territory. The game now turned into a battle of field position. Needing to get out of the shadows of their own end zone, Buffalo ran on first and second down. On the following play, Thad Lewis was unable to connect with wide receiver Chris Hogan on a third and manageable. After a quick three and out, newly acquired Bills punter Brian Moorman was set to boot the ball back to Cincinnati. Bengals return specialist Brandon Tate back peddled to his own 38-yard line to gather the Moorman punt. Tate made a cut upfield and took off along the left sideline beating most of the coverage. Tate's return resulted in a 29-yard punisher, putting the Bengals in prime position to close out Buffalo. Four plays later Cincinnati sent out kicker Mike Nugent, who scored the winning points on a 43-yard field goal.

Bengals 27 Bills 24 FINAL/OT

The Bills fall 2-4, while the Bengals kicked their way to 4-2, and first place in the AFC North.

If the loss didn't sting enough, quarterback Thad Lewis confirmed in his post game press conference that he suffered a sprained foot during the contest.

Multiple reports say Buffalo will be working out free agent quarterback Matt Flynn. Flynn spent the beginning of the season with the Oakland Raiders. After injury, Flynn lost out on the starting job to former Ohio State standout, Terrelle Pryor.

Three stars for the Bills in week six:

1. Thad Lewis- 19 of 32, 216 YDS, 2 pass TD 1 rush TD
2. Kiko Alonso- 22 TKL, 1 TFL
3. T.J. Grahm- 4 REC, 74 YDS

Rookies Making Big Impact for Buffalo

The Buffalo Bills seem to have hit the jackpot
 in the 2013 NFL Draft.

Let's face it, in past years the Buffalo Bills haven't drafted much of anything. J.P. Losman, Aaron Maybin, John McCargo and James Hardy were all first and second round picks of the Bills. What do these players have in common? They're all no longer employed by the NFL. 

But, this years draft looks very promising. Buffalo's top three picks have already become household names in the league. First round pick E.J. Manuel has shown an incredible amount of poise and leadership for a rookie quarterback. The former FSU Seminole's numbers won't make you jump out of your seat, but Manuel can get the job done with limited turnovers and smart decision making. 

Buffalo's second round pick was former USC wide receiver Robert Woods. Woods is possibly the best route runner to come out of the draft. Through the first five games, Woods has caught 16 balls for 265 yards. That's a staggering 16.6 yards per reception. Woods has been a much needed addition to an unproven receiving group. This rookie will continue to impress throughout his career. Don't be surprised if you see Robert Woods' name on the Wall of Fame at Ralph Wilson Stadium after his time is up.

In the third round, the Bills decided to take a chance on the very talented Kiko Alonso. While attending the University of Oregon in 2010, Alonso was arrested on a DUI, and was charged with burglary, criminal mischief and criminal trespass. Alonso stayed clean his senior season, but his draft stock plummeted. When the Bills picked 46th, they couldn't pass on Alonso. Since then, Alonso has been one of the best linebackers in the NFL, recording 23 tackles, 5 interceptions, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery and 1 sack. Alonso earned Defensive Rookie of the Month honors for the month of September. Let's see if the legend of Kiko Alonso will continue this season as he makes a push for Defensive Rookie of the Year.

History in Favor of Buffalo

Bills WR Stevie Johnson celebrates a touchdown with his famous
"why so serious" t-shirt against the Bengals in 2010.

As we look forward to Sunday's matchup between the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals, let's take a look back at the history between these two teams. 

Since 2001, the Buffalo Bills have won six of the last the seven games against the Cincinnati Bengals. In all of these previous meetings, the winning team has scored at least 22 points. I see this week being no different. 

Bengals superstar wide receiver A.J. Green has the ability to put up video-game-like numbers against almost any defense in the league. Green's ability to take the top off the defense and make leaping receptions is a scary thought for an inconsistent Bills secondary.

On the opposing sideline, the Buffalo Bills will continue to work their two-headed monster in the backfield. Running backs Fred Jackson and C.J. Spiller, have undoubtedly been the best tandem in the NFL this season. Jackson and Spiller have combined for 605 yards and 5 touchdowns. This run heavy offense will be tested against the 10th best run defense in football. 

If the Bills can win the turnover battle and get the run game going, they'll have a good chance to win this one. These keys will take tremendous pressure off their new starting quarterback, Thad Lewis. Let's not forget the return of the Pro Bowl free safety Jairus Byrd and top cornerback Stephon Gilmore. These playmakers will help stop the dangerous speed of the Bengals receiving core.

Byrd Hatches in Time for Week Six

Bills FS Jairus Byrd prepping for a return this Sunday.

Bills fans will see a familiar face on the field this Sunday. Franchise free safety Jairus Byrd practiced Wednesday and is prepared to play for the first time this season. Byrd has been battling plantar fasciitis in both feet since last year's 2012-2013 campaign. 

With recent trade rumors swirling about Byrd, Bills nation has had mixed feelings about the once beloved defensive standout. But with the secondary bruised, beaten and criticized, Byrd will add comfort and productivity to a much needed position.

There has also been some speculation that second year cornerback Stephon Gilmore will be back this week. Gilmore has been sidelined since week three of the preseason (hand). With uncertainty lurking, strong safety Aaron Williams has continued to take snaps at the cornerback position.

It's been a hectic week at One Bills Drive filled with substantial changes and unanswered questions. Despite the insanity, Buffalo will be focused on getting their third win of the season as they take on the Cincinnati Bengals.

Put Tuel Back in the Shed, Bring in Thad Lewis

Bills QB Thad Lewis showing off his mobility
 against the Detroit Lions.

With EJ Manuel sidelined for most of the preseason (knee), and Kevin Kolb being placed on IR (concussion), the Buffalo Bills traded for Thad Lewis. The former Duke Blue Devil played one game with the Bills in their preseason finale against the Detroit Lions. Lewis' performance was solid, but wasn't strong enough to earn a spot on the 53-man roster. EJ Manuel recovered quickly and was named the starting quarterback for week one against the New England Patriots. Undrafted rookie free agent  Jeff Tuel  had the hot hand in the preseason. With the top two quarterbacks on the depth chart going down, Tuel's practice reps and game time amplified. Tuel was then named Buffalo's backup for week one by head coach Doug Marrone. Although Lewis didn't have much knowledge of the offense, his talent and production did not go unnoticed. Lewis was signed to the practice squad shortly after.

Going into Thursday Night Football, Bills nation was anxious to see what the next chapter held in the EJ Manuel project. Late in the second half, Manuel took off and ran for a first down. Tiptoeing the sideline, Manuel was exposed for a big hit. Cleveland Browns saftey, Tashaun Gipson, went low on the scrambling Manuel and knocked him out of the game. It was now 'Tuel Time' for the Bills, as Tuel came off the bench late in the third quarter. With almost no production and a late pick six, the Bills went on to lose the nationally televised game. 

This week Manuel was diagnosed with a sprained MCL and is now expected to miss 4-8 weeks. The Bills brought in Pat White and Denis Dixon this weekend for workouts. Dixon was signed to the practice squad, while White was left in the dust. All signs led to Thad Lewis to be the starting quarterback for week six, and that's exactly what will happen.

Lewis has been on the practice squad all year, but has been in the booth on gamedays. Lewis is a smart player and has the most knowledge of Nathaniel Hackett's offense. Lewis has good speed and looks natural running the read option. Combined with a decent arm, it'll be compelling to see how the Bills will do this Sunday, when they take on the Cincinnati Bengals at Ralph Wilson Stadium.