Defensive Struggles Threaten Buffalo Season
Buffalo sit at 5-1 after their bye week, but the numbers on defence tell a troubling story. The Bills rank 30th in points allowed per game at 28.5 and 31st in yards allowed at 386.8. They are also last in the league in first downs allowed per game at 25.7.
As they prepare for a Week 8 match against the Baltimore Ravens, head coach Joe Brady knows the team must get better. Brady said that their best football has to be ahead of them. He added that if a team plays its best football in September, there is a problem.
Poor Secondary Play Raises Big Concerns
The main problems are in the passing defence. Only the Detroit Lions give up more passing touchdowns per game. The top seven defensive backs for Buffalo have allowed a combined passer rating of 107.8. That is five points higher than quarterback Josh Allen rating.
Defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard believes the issue comes down to bad communication rather than talent. The team switched to his 3-4 scheme this year. Players like Christian Benford, Cole Bishop, Damar Hamlin, Maxwell Hairston and Jordan Hancock are adjusting to new roles. Injuries and roster changes have also hurt chemistry. C.J. Gardner-Johnson faces a suspension for spitting, while new arrivals Davison Igbinosun and Dee Alford are still settling in.
Tre'Davious White Returns to Guide Team
To fix these errors, Buffalo signed veteran cornerback Tre'Davious White to the practice squad. White spent nine years in the league and started 16 games for the Bills last season.
White said that many players have not played together yet, which causes growing pains in a new system. He believes the secondary just needs more time and better communication to get on the same page.
Focus Turns to Baltimore Game
Despite having an offence that leads the league in scoring and yards per play, the team knows defence wins games. Pass rusher Bradley Chubb said the coaching message has been full steam ahead.
Chubb said the main goal is to play hard, fast and physical every single day. The Bills hope these adjustments show on the field soon as the schedule gets tougher.
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