December 31, 2004

Maddox, Scott back in Steelers' lineup _ but possibly not for long

Tommy Maddox and Chad Scott figured to be among the Pittsburgh Steelers' most important players this season.

Steelers Promote St. Pierre to Active Roster, Release Veteran Receiver

The Steelers have made two roster moves as they head into their regular-season finale this Sunday at the Buffalo Bills.

Where are they now?-Tim Tindale

Tim Tindale wants to apologize to anybody who tried to cross the Peace Bridge when he was there in the mid-1990s.

Bills would rather not be in the company of '73 team

The only other nine-win team to go home for the playoffs was the 1973 Bills, who went 9-5.

“Moment of Truth” Game for Bills

The foolin’ around with games versus the league’s dregs is over. This Steelers game will be a “day of reckoning” of sorts for these Bills.

Moulds encourages Colts to help Bills by beating Broncos

"But I was trying to tell him to ask (coach) Tony Dungy to let them play at least a half and let Peyton try to add to his touchdown record. Marvin said he would mention it to coach Dungy. Hopefully those guys will go out to Denver and play well."

Lindell flying under radar

Somewhere along the line, a place-kicker usually has a chance to decide the outcome of a game. Rian Lindell is still waiting for his.

It's a Buffalo stampede

Roethlisberger's jersey is top seller

Scott replaces Townsend at left cornerback

Notebook: Steelers injury list unchanged

Steelers to face tough offseason choices

Steelers Notebook: Farrior fined for facemask penalty

Steelers' Scott returns for start vs. Buffalo Bills

Scott makes his return to the starting lineup Sunday in Orchard Park, N.Y., against a Buffalo Bills team that has scored 228 points in its previous six outings, in a game that has absolutely no bearing on the Steelers' playoff seeding.

From the ashes

With a win Sunday, and some help, the Bills could make history.

Big Ben right on time

Big Ben won't toll for the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, good news for the Buffalo Bills but bad news for football fans in general.

December 30, 2004

Bills' OG Villarrial questionable with rib injury

Bills' guard Chris Villarrial missed his second straight practice Thursday because of a rib injury, but expects to play in Sunday's season finale against Pittsburgh.

Donahoe's Stamp Evident on Bills' Rise

Flip through the Buffalo Bills' media guide and you'll have difficulty finding much information on team president Tom Donahoe.

Do You Bill-ieve?

Excitement surrounding the Buffalo Bills is building with playoff hopes hinging on a couple of big games this weekend.

Bills fans are excited again, snapping up team merchandise

Fans of the Buffalo Bills are daring to hope their team will make it to the playoffs for the first time since the 1999 season.

Steelers Try to Avoid Late-Season Letdown

The Pittsburgh Steelers insist they'll play Sunday's game at Buffalo as if it is any other during their unexpectedly good season.

'Billieve' shirts make debut, other merchandise flying off shelves

The Buffalo Bills are asking their fans to show that they believe in the team's playoff chances by wearing the word on their chest.

BillsZone’s Postgame Report Card: Bills vs. 49ers

Quarterbacks Drew Bledsoe had a solid game against a terrible 49ers defense. Actually, it was one of his best since the Bills played at Miami a few weeks ago. He did a great job executing the no-huddle and the short passing game. Bledsoe was 21/32 for 172 yards and threw 1 touchdown. He took command and moved the offense down the field for points in 5 out of 7 drives, with 3 of them for touchdowns, and never turned the ball over. Shane Matthews had a good game himself in relief. He drove the offense down the field 52 yards for 2:40, completing it with a beautiful 33-yard touchdown pass to Lee Evans. Matthews was 2/3 for 44 yards and 1 touchdown for a whopping 149.3 QB rating. JP Losman came in to finish the game in the 4th quarter and just handed the ball off to run out the clock. Grade: A

Running Backs: Willis McGahee had a stellar comeback after being day-to-day and then questionable on the injury report with a hyper extended knee earlier in the week. Everyone thought that he wasn’t going to play much, if at all. He ran all over the defense and showed no ill effects from the injury. McGahee had 15 carries for 102 yards and ran for 2 touchdowns, but he did lose a fumble. He also caught 1 pass for 14 yards. Shaud Williams came in to give him rest and did a nice job filling in. Williams had 15 carries for 93 yards, including a sweet 27-yard touchdown run. Daimon Shelton had another day with solid blocking. He also caught 1 pass for 4 yards. Overall, it was a great day for the Bills backs. Let’s hope they can keep this up next week against a very tough Steelers defense. Grade: A

Wide Receivers: Lee Evans continues to wow the fans. He caught 2 more touchdowns, which moved his total to 9 (Bills rookie record) for the season. Evans caught 8 passes for 92 yards and 2 TDs. He also had a nice 21-yard run on a reverse. Eric Moulds had another good day, catching everything that Bledsoe threw his way. He finished the day with 8 receptions for 81 yards. Josh Reed had 2 receptions for 11 yards. Jonathan Smith had 1 nice catch for 11 yards. Overall, it was another good day for the Evans/Moulds duo as they both caught every single pass that was thrown their way. I hope to see this for many years to come. Grade: A+

Tight Ends: Both were used mainly for their blocking. Ryan Neufeld did a great job making some holes for McGahee. Rod Trafford had some good blocking, plus he caught a 5-yard pass to convert a third down. Grade: B

Offensive Line: This line deserves a lot of credit. Bledsoe had tons of time to throw and there were some big holes for the backs to run through too. They also did a nice job keeping up with the no-huddle offense as the 49ers defense wore down. The line allowed only 1 sack according to the stats. However they did get away with a sack and fumble that wasn’t counted and was ruled an incomplete pass. Grade: A

Defensive Line: Aaron Schobel had a nice game. He was pressuring the 49ers quarterbacks all day. Dorsey and Pickett looked lost out there. Schobel also recovered a fumble and helped force an interception from his pressure. Chris Kelsay didn’t do much and lost time to Ryan Denney who finished the game with 5 total tackles. Sam Adams also put some pressure on the quarterbacks and had a sack. He did struggle with the run a bit. Pat Williams only had 1 tackle and also allowed Kevan Barlow to run over him quite a bit as he missed some tackles. Overall, the pressure outweighed the run defense and that helped the Bills defense shut down the 49ers. Grade: B+

Linebackers: Takeo Spikes was his usual self. He was all over the field and in the backfield pressuring the quarterback. Spikes had 7 tackles, and 1 sack, and almost got an interception, but he couldn’t get his hand onto it. London Fletcher had a good day too. He also had 7 tackles and made some big plays to help hold San Francisco to under 100-yards rushing. Jeff Posey missed a tackle that would have stopped a run for only a 1-yard gain. He also had a roughing the passer penalty as he hit the quarterback and knocked him down well after the ball was thrown away. Posey finished the day with 4 total tackles. With how dominating this game was, the Bills even had a chance to check out some of their backups. Josh Stamer did the best by tipping a pass and intercepting it. He also had 2 tackles. Mario Haggan and Angelo Crowell both saw some action too. Grade: A-

Secondary: Nate Clements had another solid game with good coverage. He also added another interception to his resume, when he deflected a pass and caught it. Terrence McGee was good and had 7 total tackles, but he was burned on a 4th down and 17. Kevin Thomas had a great play towards the end of the 2nd quarter and it was probably the turning point of the game. He came in on a blitz and Dorsey never saw him coming as he sacked him and forced a fumble, which the Bills recovered. Lawyer Milloy was rather quiet in the game, but still managed to get an interception. Troy Vincent was also very quiet and has only 1 tackle. Apparently, these guys weren’t needed because Buffalo shut San Francisco down to only 109 total passing yards and 2 interceptions from the defensive backs. It was a pretty good day by the secondary and hopefully they can do the same thing to a potent Steelers offense next week. Grade: A

Special Teams: The unit that is called Special Teams, continues to the be special for the Bills. They may have not had any points or any huge plays, but they definitely helped the Bills in the win. The coverage team was great again, as they held Maurice Hicks to 7 kick returns for an average of 13 yards and 3 of them within the 20-yard line. The kick return team was also solid as they helped Jonathan Smith get a 28-yard return on one kick return and helped Terrence McGee get a 36-yard return with some key blocks. The punt-return team was even better. Nate Clements had 4 returns for an average of 15.2 yards, including a 21 and a 28-yarder. Brian Moorman had only one punt for 36-yards, but it was a nice one that went out of bounds at the 8-yard line. He also tried to convert a 4th down and 3 with a fake punt. Moorman found Pierson Prioleau, but Prioleau dropped it. Either way, it wouldn’t have counted as Ryan Denney drew an ineligible downfield kick penalty. Rian Lindell was perfect on field goals, hitting 2 out of 2 (31, 23) and hitting all 5 of 5 extra points. Lindell also did a nice job with the kickoffs, putting 4 out of 8 within the 10-yard line. Overall, it was another good day by this unit. The Bills offense benefited by getting the ball back around the 45-yard line each time. Let’s hope they can continue to do this next week and maybe McGee will end the season with one last return for a touchdown. Grade: B+

Coaching: Mike Mularkey continued to keep this team focused each week, no matter how many times they can easily get distracted. They have always played their hearts out every week. As for this week, even when the Bills were not doing anything in the first quarter, the Bills would make a couple big plays in the second quarter. Jerry Gray had a great game plan against the 49ers offense and showed absolutely no mercy against the young quarterbacks as they continued to blitz all the way through. They also forced 4 more turnovers, which proves how dominant this defense is compared to last year. The offense also did a great job. Tom Clements kept using the run and the short passing game and it worked tremendously. Using the no-huddle was a brilliant move by Clements. It worked out perfectly as they wore down the defense and then could run all over the place. It may have come against the worst team in the league, but it was a good win. Overall, the wins this year may have come against a bunch of bad teams, but the Bills have continued to prove how superior they are by dominating each opponent. Hopefully they can do the same thing against the Steelers next week. I’m sure Coach Mularkey will savor that win for a little bit, especially if it gets them into the playoffs. Grade: A

Clayton: First and Ten

Pittsburgh Steelers at Buffalo Bills: Steelers coach Bill Cowher and Bills general manager Tom Donahoe didn't part on great terms when Donahoe was let go by the Steelers years ago. Donahoe naturally was bitter. He's a Pittsburgh guy who had to go to Buffalo to work and now he has the Bills on the verge of making the playoffs.

Fact or Fiction- Bills making the playoffs?

Merril Hoge Fact: The Bills are the hottest team in football. The defense is playing as well as any team in football and is extremely tough to score on. Offensively, the Bills are doing a great job mixing it up. They are keeping teams off balance with a strong running game that opens things up for quarterback Drew Bledsoe. This team is going to be difficult to get past in the playoffs.

'Throwaway' games could slow momentum

In the final game of the 1999 season, already sporting a 13-2 record and locked into the No. 2 seed in the AFC playoff bracket, the Indianapolis Colts traveled to Buffalo, and got walloped, 31-6, by a Bills team that had claimed a wild-card berth.

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

The Bills felt they had landed a great prospect at wide receiver with the selection of Lee Evans 13th overall in last April's draft. But the dynamic Wisconsin product has come on faster than even they expected.

Bills report: Notes, quotes

Steelers coach Bill Cowher said Wednesday he holds no grudges against Tom Donahoe, Pittsburgh's former director of football operations who took over the Bills in 2001 after losing a celebrated power struggle with Cowher.

Bills report: Inside slant

With a six-game winning streak during which they've scored 228 points - more than even the Jim Kelly-led Super Bowl teams ever produced - the Buffalo Bills have become the team nobody wants to face in the NFL playoffs.

Playing at Indy likely in playoffs

If the Buffalo Bills make the playoffs, they very likely will go to Indianapolis for the wild-card round of the playoffs.

Reunion an afterthought for Mularkey

Mike Mularkey grins when he recalls skimming the newly released NFL schedule last spring to see when Buffalo played Pittsburgh.

Cowher would love to pop Bills' balloon

Steelers head coach Bill Cowher laughed, albeit nervously, when I asked if he would take any personal pleasure from knocking a Tom Donahoe team out of the NFL playoffs this Sunday at Ralph Wilson Stadium.

Steelers draw huge TV ratings in Pittsburgh

Ratings for the Ravens-Steelers game Sunday were higher in the Pittsburgh area than any TV program in any other market, according to Nielsen Media Research and the NFL.

More to Steelers than magical arm of rookie QB

Nobody would argue that Roethlisberger's emergence and the Steelers' success this season are mutually exclusive, but it would be a gross misrepresentation to suggest Roethlisberger is the only factor in the Steelers' turnaround.

Bledsoe's field generalship jells in a hurry

The Buffalo Bills came out in the no-huddle offense Sunday in San Francisco and held the ball on their first five drives for 12, nine, 10, nine and seven plays.

Bills steel for one huge game

For the Bills to be still in a position to make the NFL playoffs on the final day of the regular season, dozens upon dozens of factors had to fall perfectly for them over the past two months.

Steelers will play to win

It’s the only way Bill Cowher knows how to coach football. He’s done it that way when the Steelers have had good records at the end of a season, and he’s done it the same way when the Steelers have had bad records at the end of a season.

Cowher names Maddox as the starter Sunday

It's official: Maddox to start

Nothing personal between Steelers and Bills

Tom Donahoe does not have a say in who wins NFL coach of the year, but if he had a vote, it would go to Bill Cowher.

Bills' playoff chances no longer slim

On Dec. 16 in this space, I offered a blueprint for the Buffalo Bills to make this season's NFL playoffs.

Gray's defense near top

A year ago, head coach Gregg Williams, top assistant Dick LeBeau and defensive coordinator Jerry Gray each had a hand in the Buffalo Bills' second-place ranking in total defense in the NFL.

Steelers head into Buffalo intent on winning

In theory, the game means absolutely nothing to the Pittsburgh Steelers, but that doesn't mean coach Bill Cowher is going to flood the field at Ralph Wilson Stadium with reserves Sunday afternoon.

December 29, 2004

Receiver says right eye not troublesome

Peerless Price insists the vision in his right eye is fine, even though an ophthalmologist diagnosed him with a retinal disorder last summer.

Season On The Line Sunday

It’s a big week for the Buffalo Bills as they’re preparing to play their biggest game in years.

Tommy's Turn: Maddox To Start Sunday

Backup quarterback Tommy Maddox will make his first start since September when the Steelers play the Bills on Sunday in Buffalo.

Mularkey facing former team with playoffs on the line

Mike Mularkey grins when he recalls skimming the newly released NFL schedule last spring to see when Buffalo played Pittsburgh.

Conference call-Head coach Mike Mularkey

Can you tell us about your winning streak

We have really executed well in all three phases. That has been the difference, to me.

Steelers list Roethlisberger as 50/50 with bruised ribs; Bettis is doubtful

Ben Roethlisberger's ribs are only bruised and Pittsburgh Steelers coach Bill Cowher listed the rookie quarterback as questionable for Sunday's meaningless regular-season finale at Buffalo.

Offense keeps Bills in high gear

The Bills have evolved into what President and General Manager Tom Donahoe envisioned four years ago, a philosophy he maintained when he hired coach Mike Mularkey.

Teams Earn the Right to Rest Players

The Pittsburgh Steelers come to Ralph Wilson Stadium this weekend to take on the Buffalo Bills, perhaps the hottest team in football. Pittsburgh is 14-1 and has home field advantage secured. They can't improve their position so why not rest your starters?

Roethlisberger won't play Sunday

Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has nothing more serious than bruised ribs that he may even test today by throwing a football, but he will be held out of the team's regular-season finale Sunday against the Buffalo Bills.

Offense rages, but soaring Bills riding Gray's ball-hawks

You watch the Buffalo Bills hammer San Francisco, and you wonder what happened to make these guys a playoff threat. Then the light goes on: They have something they didn't have a year ago, and I'm not talking about a healthy Willis McGahee

Baker gives Bills a boost

Undrafted rookie safety Rashad Baker came off the bench Sunday as the Bills rolled to a 41-7 victory over the San Francisco 49ers - Buffalo's sixth straight win and eighth in the last nine games.

Cowher not interested in getting Bettis to 1,000 yards

Steelers coach Bill Cowher said he wouldn't be tempted to put injured running back Jerome Bettis in the game Sunday, just to help him reach 1,000 yards.

Van Pelt contacts Wannstedt about possible job

Former Pitt quarterback Alex Van Pelt has enjoyed working as a color analyst on Buffalo Bills radio broadcasts, but he has a coaching itch he said needs scratching.

December 28, 2004

One Fan's View: Stayin Alive and strutting my stuff

The Buffalo Bills fan ride continues to be an exciting one. Again, I went into this game thinking, now is the time for the let down game, but this team is still riding high. Everything except the Broncos game worked out our way. I can’t believe that the Jags lost. How ridiculous is that? No, seriously, how ridiculous is that? I’m sure some of you read my “God is wearing a Bills Jersey” comment from last week and shrugged it off. But when the Texans traveled to Jacksonville and beat the Jags in a shutout. I don’t know how many more signs you need to be convinced. However I will try to spell it out for you.

I would have liked to see the Bills score a touchdown on defense or on special teams. You can’t win games solely depending upon your offense. I’m kidding. I’ve been harping about how the Bills offense has been bailed out by the defense and the special teams in this incredible run. I just wanted to see if I could irritate you by being hypocritical. This week, it was like playing a friend who hadn’t played that year’s version of Madden. “Sure, just push B. That does everything.” Meanwhile, you are using your set audibles and kicking onside kicks until your friend turns off the game and no one says anything for a few minutes.

The Bills offense really came to play. Pretty much anyone could have run for 5 yards against this team. I have to say as a 5’8” guy, it was pretty awesome to see Shaud do so well. I’m always very excited about the little guy showing it to the bigger guys.

On the passing side, I don’t think there was a play where there wasn’t a receiver open. When Josh Reed is catching multiple balls, things are going very well.

I only hope that all the teams that the Buffalo Bills play from here on out look as bad as the 49ers did on Sunday.

Kevin’s DVD Extras:

• Before the game, the Bills checked with perennial back-up Regis Philbin to see if he was available as a RB. Unfortunately he was doing the New Years Eve party. Subsequently, he would have averaged for 5 yards a carry had he played.
• Do you realize that Bledsoe is averaging like 5 yards a carry in the last 3 weeks on his run attempts? Quantum physics has made more sense to me than Bledsoe being mobile.
• Why did they put Matthews in? Was that part of his contract? Did he have to play like 5 minutes during the season? That seems like it would have been a good time to let J.P. air it out a little. Instead he was just handing the ball off when he got in. I don’t understand how that helps his development.
• I saw “Meet the Fockers” on Christmas Eve. Funny Stuff. I watched the 49ers play defense Post Christmas day. Funnier stuff.
• With the Moorman Pro Bowl snub rubbing me the wrong way, I had so much emotionally invested to see him complete that pass. He should be 2-2 for pass attempts. You hate to see a good man held down. However, I know by the time this is published, this stat will have been talked about ad naseum, but Moorman had a better QB rating than the two 49er QB’s.
• I’m proud to let you know that my dad received a Bills Jersey from me for Christmas. If you see the “Angioman” at the stadium, wave hello. So he joins the good ranks of myself and God to be proud Bills jersey owners. Not bad company if I don’t say so myself.
• Ref Report – non factor. When a team can beat itself as well as the 49ers, refs are never going to be a factor. It was nice to see a Bills game finish before other games with the same start time.
• Sports reporters are as useless as are regular reporters. You know how a lot of reporters are saying, “You know maybe we didn’t cover the beginning of the Iraq war well enough to give people the information they need.” A lot of people attributed it to reporters just being lazy. I think the same is true, perhaps more so, to sports journalists. Prime example, the Pats lay an egg in Miami, and everyone comes out of their foggy haze from sucking up to the Pats to realize, “this team has just been lucky as can be.” All week, every reporter was saying, “Perhaps we are too high on this team. They have a ton of injuries.” Why did it take this long? True, they beat the Jets. But who are the Jets? They won, 1 of 5 games that were “big” games. If you could reduce all the hype to simplest terms, it wasn’t any bigger than the Browns vs. Miami. In short, I’m just really excited that Charlie Weiss is out of the NFL and pretty boy Brady will be exposed as the hack he truly is.
• If the Jets lose to the Rams, a team that needs that win to make the playoffs and a coach that wants to hold onto his job that will feel so sweet. I’m sure I speak for all Bills fans located in NYC that going into the Office in the New Year will be so sweet if the Jets are knocked out. In fact, I am thinking about bringing my Bills Starter jacket and a boombox to the city after the Pittsburgh game. I will play “Stayin’ Alive” and strut everywhere I have to go. Hopefully, other New York Bills fans, will form the obligatory Michael Jackson Dance Triangle behind me as we overtake the streets. I’m sorry, I’m salivating just thinking about this. God, please let this be.
• I hope Indy plays Denver tough. Denver is just so bad. They are the least deserving of AFC teams that could be in the playoffs.
• Apparently, there are no shortage of combinations that the Dolphins have on ugly uniforms. That all teal situation made me sick.
• Do you think Ralph Wilson is still bored by the Bills? - They had the short 5 minute Reggie White segment prepared so quickly on Sunday, it just makes you wonder if they have these segments ready to go for every player.
• I wonder what Antonie Winfield would have said at 3-6. Do you think he would have said, “It’s over. We are out of the playoffs.”
• Eating Crow. If you look at my week 2 article, I said in the opening sentence, “The bills season is over.” I am Antoine Winfield. - However, to clear my good name, I did proclaim during the futile moments this year that we would get our day of reckoning where we would score almost at will. You win some, you lose some. And if you really are checking up on old articles, you’ll keep quiet the fact that I said that I don’t see it coming any time soon.
• So this may be one of the last articles written for the season. How do I feel about it? Well, I’m not going to focus on things I can’t control. I am just going to write the best damn articles I can and hope the other pieces fall into place.

Former Bills #1 overall pick Tom Cousineau stayed close to home

When he came out of Ohio State, Buffalo used the No. 1 overall pick in the 1979 draft to take him. It seemed like a good fit. The Bills were struggling and needed an infusion of talent. And playing in Buffalo, just three hours up I-90 from Cleveland, meant Cousineau would be close to home.

“I was incredibly flattered to have been drafted by the Bills and I looked forward to playing with them,” the now 47-year-old Cousineau said. “Chuck Knox, the coach there at that time, was a great coach. He was what they call a players’ coach. I just looked upon it as a great opportunity.”

But that feeling lasted for only a few fleeting hours – if that.

Ben Questionable, Bettis Doubtful For Buffalo

Quarterback Ben Roethlisberger is questionable for Sunday's game against the Buffalo Bills, meaning there is a 50 percent chance he will play.

AFC East Report: Week 16

The Bills extend their winning streak to six games this past week by annihilating the 49ers. The score was a thorough 41-7 thrashing of what is a young and up-and-coming 49er team two years away from competitiveness.

Steelers-Bills game offers compelling story lines

Of all the games on tap for the final Sunday of the NFL’s regular season, perhaps none is more significant than the Pittsburgh Steelers’ visit to the Buffalo Bills

Roethlisberger questionable for Sunday's regular-season finale

Ben Roethlisberger's ribs are only bruised and Pittsburgh Steelers coach Bill Cowher listed the rookie quarterback as questionable for Sunday's regular-season finale at Buffalo.

Rookie WR Evans helping to ignite surging Bills

Now that he's playing a big role in the Buffalo Bills' resurgence, rookie receiver Lee Evans has an easier time forgetting his tough start.

Bills, rooted in Pittsburgh, face Steelers in playoff bid

Perhaps the Buffalo Bills should wear their charging buffalo logo on just one side of their helmets this week.

Bills Peaking at the Right Time

Twelve short weeks ago first-year Head Coach Mike Mularkey was answering questions about the lack of scoring, winning on the road, and overcoming mistakes at critical times.

Steelers promise they won't coast at Buffalo in the finale

Now, despite two more injuries — quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's sore ribs and cornerback Deshea Townsend's broken hand — the Steelers promise there will be no letting up Sunday at Buffalo (9-6), even though they have little to gain by winning.

Ben Questionable, Bettis Doubtful For Buffalo

Steelers coach Bill Cowher held his weekly press conference Tuesday at the team's practice facility on the South Side.

McGahee shows heart in San Fran

Any doubts as to whether Willis McGahee is a competitor had to be erased by his performance against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday.

Bills need help from disinterested parties

The Buffalo Bills know what they have to do to have a shot at getting to the postseason — beat the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday at Ralph Wilson Stadium.

Steelers-Bills game offers compelling story lines

Of all the games on tap for the final Sunday of the NFL’s regular season, perhaps none is more significant than the Pittsburgh Steelers’ visit to the Buffalo Bills.

Implausible stretch creates excitement

The bandwagon is overflowing, taking on passengers at a dizzying rate. That's me hanging on at the rear, still properly skeptical but grateful for an exhilarating ride.

Steelers won't let up versus Bills

Now, despite two more injuries - quarterback Ben Roethlisberger's sore ribs and cornerback Deshea Townsend's broken hand - the Steelers promise there will be no letting up Sunday at Buffalo (9-6), even though they have little to gain by winning.

Bills show resolve of steel

The Buffalo Bills know what's needed to complete the fairy tale.

Steelers use injuries as motivation to win, not excuse for losing

The Pittsburgh Steelers had plenty of excuses for losing this season: Kendall Simmons' knee and Kendrell Bell's oft-injured groin. Chad Scott's knee and Plaxico Burress' thigh. Tommy Maddox's elbow and Casey Hampton's knee. So much for excuses. So much for losing.

Forever focused

The Steelers haven't had time to take a breath and think about what they have accomplished. And Pro Bowl center Jeff Hartings said they wouldn't take the time.

Steelers hope 'road' paved in black, gold

The Steelers have traveled this road before, the road that went through Pittsburgh and carried some other team to the Super Bowl.

Roethlisberger's record run will come to end vs. Bills

It appears rookie Ben Roethlisberger will retire from the regular season as the quarterback with the best record for a season in NFL history.

Mularkey Comeback Coach Of The Year

How can you explain the Bills turnaround? Left for dead, the Bills have reeled off six straight wins, and aren’t only in playoff contention, they have a great chance to get into the post-season for the first time since 1999.

Buffalo crowd wild card-hope fans can provide boost

A throng of about 74,000 fans at Ralph Wilson Stadium, who should be screaming when they're not eating their beef-on-weck sandwiches, could be enough to power the playoff-hungry Buffalo Bills over the powerful Steelers on Sunday.

Bills need help from disinterested parties

The Buffalo Bills know what they have to do to have a shot at getting to the postseason — beat the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday at Ralph Wilson Stadium.

Bills report card

Buffalo averaged 6.0 yards per play, piling up 441 yards on 73 plays.Willis McGahee ran for 102 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries, while Shaud Williams picked up 93 yards and a TD on 17 carries.

McGahee shows heart in San Fran

Any doubts as to whether Willis McGahee is a competitor had to be erased by his performance against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday.

Bills, rooted in Pittsburgh, face Steelers in playoff bid

Perhaps the Buffalo Bills should wear their charging buffalo logo on just one side of their helmets this week. It would be a fitting homage to the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Stability & Winning. Which Comes First?

Winning. Stability. They belong together.

Just under radar, three coaches have excelled

Mike Mularkey, Buffalo: You don't want to start your career as an NFL head coach by losing your first four games, but San Diego's Bobby Ross did it in 1992 and wound up in the playoffs. And if it can work for Ross, why not Mike Mularkey

How can the Bills beat the Steelers?

Leo: The better question is how can they not win?

A Bills offensive weapon returns

It was on a gorgeously sunny San Francisco day 12 years ago that the Buffalo Bills and hometown 49ers put on an offensive show for the ages.

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

PASSING OFFENSE A -- It was Drew Bledsoe's best game since a victory a month ago at Miami as he confidently ran the no-huddle attack, taking a seat late in the third quarter after building a 27-0 lead.

Bills report: Notes, quotes

Anyway you slice it, the Bills are on fire. During their six-game win streak, they've outscored their opponents 228-89, which works out to an average score of 38-15, for an average victory margin of 23 points.

Bills report: Inside slant

Buffalo's surge to a possible playoff berth has rekindled memories of Buffalo's Super Bowl seasons, and it's not just the victories, nine and counting.

December 27, 2004

Bills One Step Closer, Win 41-7

Game Center | Play by Play | Drive Charts | Team Stats | Photos

Streaking Bills Not Focusing on Playoffs

Coach Mike Mularkey knows the word, and has heard it raised around town during the Buffalo Bills' solid stretch run.

Bills vs. Steelers Sold Out

The Bills-Steelers game this Sunday at Ralph Wilson Stadium is sold out and will be televised locally.

Marv Levy Interview

Marv Levy known for his 12 years as head coach of the Buffalo Bills from 1986-1997 is one of the most legendary coaches of our time. Four years later he came in during the middle of the 1986 NFL Season and took over the Buffalo Bills for the next 12 years. He ended up leading the Buffalo Bills to four straight Super Bowls, which were 25-28. In 2001 he was inducted into the NFL Pro Football Hall of Fame. A man with a degree from Harvard University and once more with his book Where Else Would You Rather Be that is the biography of his coaching life.

Buffalo's playoff dream seems quite possible

Six weeks ago, playing a meaningful game in January seemed like an impossibly cruel fantasy for the Buffalo Bills and their followers, a delusional hope that would require a complete reversal of form by the blue, white and red.

Buffalo keeps up push for playoffs

Coach Mike Mularkey shut off every television in the locker room Sunday morning, ordering his Buffalo Bills to focus on the only game with playoff implications they could control.

Bills on cusp of postseason

After starting the season with four consecutive losses, the Buffalo Bills have gone 9-2 over the last 11 weeks and have become the trendy team that no one wants to play in the postseason.

AFC East Recap: Week 16

New England showed why it is still the team to beat, preventing the Jets from clinching a playoff berth. Buffalo won its sixth straight game and now has a very realistic shot at making the postseason for the first time since 1999. Miami hired a new head coach and also won two consecutive games for the first time this season.

NFL Playoff Picture - What's the Scenario?

Buffalo (9-6, vs. Pittsburgh) - Would claim No. 6 seed in AFC playoffs with win over Steelers and Broncos loss to Colts, and could earn No. 5 seed with win over Steelers, Broncos loss to Colts, and Jets loss to Rams; would travel to face Colts or Chargers in AFC First Round.

An interesting week ahead for the Bills

This is going to be a fun week. If the Buffalo Bills, arguably the National Football League’s hottest team, don’t make the playoffs, this will be one of the franchise’s most unrequited seasons in its 45-year history.

Bills tune out TV, focus on blow out of San Francisco

Coach Mike Mularkey shut off every television in the locker room Sunday morning, ordering his Buffalo Bills to focus on the only game with playoff implications they could control.

No. 1, here they come

The final was Buffalo 41, San Francisco 7, but it actually was much worse than that. The Bills were running gadget plays by early in the third quarter and liberally sending in reserves shortly thereafter.

Bills Pound Helpless Niners into Oblivion

Now I’m no master lip reader, but did Referee Mike Carey, instead of asking the Niners which end of the field they wanted to defend at the beginning of the second half, tell Dennis Erickson that they were “on the clock.” This game pretty much went as scripted.

Grading the Bills

Passing game
A: In a word: sharp. Drew was superb and ran no-huddle well. Moulds and Evans were too good for Niners corners.

Having a ball

It's hard to believe, but they will make the playoffs if they beat Pittsburgh next week and either Denver or the Jets lose.

Bills turn 49ers into Buffalo believers

"This is probably the best football team coming in that we've played," Erickson said.

Defense comes close to blanking Niners

The Buffalo Bills' defense has accomplished many things this season, except recording a shutout.

Lethal receptions

Focus too much on Eric Moulds and Lee Evans will burn you. Take Evans away and Moulds will take you out.

No question: McGahee was ready to play

"You would have had to tie him down," right tackle Mike Williams said after the Bills' 41-7 win over the Niners.

California gold rush

The first thing Buffalo Bills coach Mike Mularkey did when he showed up at Monster Park on Sunday afternoon was turn off every television set in the locker room.

San Jose Mercury News Coverage (Subscription)

Hospitable hosts
Still the pain keeps falling
49ers rewind
Never say never: It's 49ers' worst ever
Woods fares worse in tale of two receivers
Little sympathy for this sorry outfit
Username- Billszone2004@aol.com
Passwod -billszone1

Contra Costa Times Coverage- (subscription)

Lloyd's injury paves way for rookie receiver
49ers finally win for losing
Looking forward to more of same
Cold, hard facts -- 49ers leave little to appreciate
Username- Billszone2004@aol.com
Passwod -billszone1

Bills still in playoff picture

THERE HASN'T been a playoff game at Ralph Wilson Stadium since 1996. Circle the wagons though, because this coming Sunday in Orchard Park the Buffalo Bills will play in the next best thing.

The Bills Take The Playoff Race To The Very End

The Bills were going on a business trip according to Mike Mularkey and they did nothing but take care of business blasting the Niners in San Francisco 41-7.

Week 16 Judgements: Bills won't fold in finale

I don't know if the Buffalo Bills make the AFC playoffs, but I know they should. And they're in the right place at the right time to get there.

BILLS 41, 49ERS 7 49er Game grades

49ERS NOTEBOOK -One player's pumped up in 34-point loss

Niners routed again, earn top draft choice

Bills have gone other way since matching 49ers at 1-5

Once in a three-way tie for futility in the NFL, the Bills are dusting their former 0-4 counterparts. When winless Buffalo and winless Miami faced off during Week 6, it was dubbed the "loser bowl." When Buffalo and San Francisco sported the same 1-5 records going into Halloween games, they were the jokes of the league.

Door still open for the Bills

There aren't many walkover games in the parity-strewn National Football League, but Sunday's blowout by the bay was certainly one for the Buffalo Bills.

Buffalo needs help in final week

Red-hot Buffalo moved a little closer to a playoff berth with its sixth consecutive victory Sunday, but the Bills still need some help on the final week of the NFL's regular season.

Bills: Report card

Quarterback: Drew Bledsoe had his best game since the Miami win, confidently leading five scoring drives, building a 27-0 lead, then taking a seat late in the third quarter.

Bills: Two-minute read

Play of the game
Running back Shaud Williams' 22-yard run to open the second quarter.

December 26, 2004

Team Wins In Dominating Fashion

Drew Bledsoe had a great game, commanding the field well and beating the blitzes early that made the 49ers back off. In fact, he played so well he was able to leave the game late in the third quarter, giving way to Shane Matthews.

Bills Win Big Again 41-7 -Playoffs A Real Possibility

Just when you thought the Bills couldn't get more dominating, they do. They continue their improbable run to a possible playoff berth with their 6th win in a row.

McGahee and Bills embarrass 49ers

Willis McGahee's hyperextended right knee could not slow down the Buffalo Bills.

Bills Rout San Francisco

The Buffalo Bills made it six straight wins while staying alive in the A-F-C playoff picture with a 41-7 rout of the San Francisco 49ers. The Bills scored 30 or more points for the sixth straight time

Williams Has Big Day; Injury Report

Heading into Sunday’s game with the Buffalo Bills, Jimmy Williams never had more than eight tackles – in a season. Well, that record is now history as Williams recorded a career-high 12 tackles against the Bills.

NFL Game Summary - Buffalo at San Francisco

Willis McGahee ran for 102 yards and two touchdowns as the Buffalo Bills kept their playoff hopes alive with a 41-7 romp over the San Francisco 49ers at Monster Park.

Pickett Makes Debut Against Bills

Cody Pickett made his NFL debut Sunday afternoon against the Buffalo Bills, replacing an injured Ken Dorsey.

McGahee, Bills storm by 49ers 41-7

Willis McGahee's knee felt pretty good after all -- and after flattening the pathetic 49ers, the Buffalo Bills were feeling great about their playoff chances.

Bills looking for playoff berth; SF simply looking for motivation

It's been a miserable season for the 49ers, but as one of their fellow NFL dregs demonstrated last week, it can still be a happy holiday season.

Buffalo vs. San Francisco

The Buffalo Bills may encounter some problems when it comes to making the playoffs, but they have had little trouble when it comes to playing teams from the NFC West.

Bills still have playoffs in sight against lowly 49ers

When Mike Mularkey was a rookie in training camp with the San Francisco 49ers in 1983, he remembers being in constant awe of Bill Walsh, Joe Montana, Dwight Clark and the rest of the defending Super Bowl champions.

Spiritual rebirth helps Bills' April weather storm

This has been a dream season for Bobby April, the Bills' special teams coach.

McGahee, not Brees, is league's best comeback story

Willis McGahee deserves to be the NFL's Comeback Player of the Year.

Once Bledsoe gets rocking, Bills figure to roll

When the Bills run: RB Willis McGahee's availability is uncertain because of his knee injury and even if he doesn't play, Bills can't abandon running game.

Raising the baton

When Jerry Gray joined the Buffalo Bills coaching staff four years ago, there was the perception that he was the defensive coordinator in name only.

Bills scare up a sense of urgency

The Buffalo Bills say it's still there, even after five straight victories.

San Francisco 49ers tight fisted

League salary figures for the 2004 season obtained by The Chronicle show that San Francisco spent less than any other team on players -- a total of $63.6 million to cover salaries and bonuses. That's $19 million under the league average and $3 million less than the next-lowest team payroll.

Bills (8-6) vs. 49ers (2-12)

With the 49ers heading to New England for the season finale, this game could be the last opportunity to record a win, which could help coach Dennis Erickson and his staff retain their jobs.

Ex-Alabama player has chance to shine for Bills

Former Alabama running back Shaud Williams watched all seven rounds of the NFL Draft, never hearing his name.

Q&A: Shaud Williams

Shaud Williams' career at the University of Alabama was prolific enough to warrant an invitation to the Indianapolis scouting combine last winter.

Bills take 49ers game seriously

Not that Mike Mularkey thought his Buffalo Bills needed a reminder about the danger of overlooking an opponent, but nonetheless, there it was on prime-time television Monday night.

December 25, 2004

Bills recover from their poor start, unlike the 49ers

Both the 49ers and Buffalo Bills started this season 0-4 before winning a game and that about sums up those teams' similarities.

No malarkey from Mularkey

Q: What were your feelings after the slow start? Did you think you had what it took to be where you are now? Mularkey: I did. I think we all did to be honest with you. There was never anybody showing signs of waver when we were down.

Adams plays big part in Bills' remarkable surge

That sideline confrontation, for which Adams has since apologized, put him and Gray on the same page and ignited old passions that have the 6-foot-4, 340-pounder playing the best football of his 12-year NFL career.

McGahee Back at Practice

Bills running back Willis McGahee practiced for the first time this week, and his status is unclear for Sunday's game at San Francisco.

After delay, injury ends Adams' season

Like so many other 49ers teammates, defensive tackle Anthony Adams will miss the remainder of the season because of an injury.

Mularkey is borrowing from Walsh's playbook

But first-year Buffalo Bills coach Mike Mularkey is using some tricks of the trade he picked up from Walsh 21 years ago in Rocklin.

Problems mount for once-proud 49ers

With the San Francisco 49ers home for the holidays, Dennis Erickson was asked if his team would be able to maintain a better focus. Well, Erickson didn't see that way.

Broncos need to put brakes on recent skid

The franchise with a growing reputation for late-season slumps is doing it again. The Broncos (8-6) have lost three of their past four, including two to teams with losing records, and they are tied with three other teams - including the Buffalo Bills - for the AFC's final wild-card spot.

December 24, 2004

McGahee status remains uncertain for Sunday

Bills running back Willis McGahee practiced for the first time this week, and his status is unclear for Sunday's game at San Francisco.

Pathetic 49ers will prove accomodating hosts

There is no way, absolutely none, that the Buffalo Bills should lose in San Francisco on Sunday.

49ers: Five Keys to the game

1. The 49ers must be at their defensive best. Under the direction of QB DREW BLEDSOE, Buffalo has scored 187 points during its 5-game winning streak.

Former coach's book a big hit in football-mad Buffalo

He hasn't coached a game in years and his team lost four straight Super Bowls.

Bills refuse to take a holiday from game preparation

There's no place like home for the holidays, but the Buffalo Bills will be a long way from home this weekend.

Bills choose terrible time to be petty

In case you haven't heard, it appeared the Buffalo Bills dropped off an early Christmas present Wednesday before opening the locker room to the media.

Bills embrace rush orders

The Bills are tied for fifth in the league with 39 sacks this season and are closing in on the franchise record of 50 set in 1964 during a 14-game AFL season.

Bills receiving gift TDs

If Elvis Presley were alive today and a fan of the NFL, is there any doubt that the Buffalo Bills would inspire him to re-record his hit single, "Return to Sender"?

December 23, 2004

Bills still have playoffs in sight against lowly 49ers

San Francisco has the NFL's worst record, and the Bills need a victory to keep their playoff hopes healthy - and clinch their first winning season since 1999.

49ers Ready For Sizzling Bills

The 49ers will face a highly ranked defense for the second consecutive week when they host the Bills this Sunday at Monster Park.

Bills' RB McGahee misses second straight practice

Bills running back Willis McGahee missed his second straight practice Thursday and is questionable for Sunday's game at San Francisco.

Niners Struggling, Bills need win

Ten years ago, this was what many believed to be a Super Bowl match-up.

Williams, Burns split work with first team

Shaud Williams and Joe Burns split the carries at running back with the starting unit in practice Wednesday for the Buffalo Bills.

Trio of Bills heading to Hawaii in February

Spikes was one of three Bills selected, along with defensive tackle Sam Adams and kickoff returner Terrence McGee. Spikes and Adams were picked as starters. Only one kick return specialist is named.

Buffalo (8-6) at San Francisco (2-12)

Special teams, defense and a consistent running attack have helped the Buffalo Bills win five straight games and move into the thick of the AFC wild-card race.

Bills can’t afford a Christmas letdown

Productivity at many jobs slips this time of year, thanks to plenty of holiday distractions.

Playing scared is the way to play

Buffalo defensive tackle Sam Adams says the Bills are playing scared right now and he believes that playing that way is a good thing.

Bledsoe's passing could boost Bills

The Buffalo Bills might need Drew Bledsoe to show off his big right arm Sunday in San Francisco and he probably won't mind a bit.

Bills backfield hits a fog

It is uncertain whether Willis McGahee will play Sunday afternoon in San Francisco, but Travis Henry, out since Nov. 28 with torn ligaments in his ankle, left no doubt about his availability for the game.

Three Bills are Pro Bowlers

When Terrence McGee joined the Buffalo Bills as the 111th overall choice in the 2003 NFL draft, the last thing on his mind was making the Pro Bowl by his second pro season.

Sam Adams Selected to 2005 NFL Pro Bowl

Sam Adams, All Pro Defensive Tackle for the Buffalo Bills and owner of the Everett Hawks of the NIFL, has been selected to represent the 2005 American Football Conference in the NFL Pro Bowl.

December 22, 2004

Williams Ready to Go

More changes are in store for the Buffalo Bills. Injuries continue to mount and it appears they'll go into Sunday’s game at San Francisco with their number three running back carrying the load.

3 Bills Earn Pro Bowl Birth

Takeo Spikes, Sam Adams and Terrence McGee have been selected for AFC-NFC Pro Bowl in Hawaii February 12th.

McGahee, Henry miss Bills' practice

Starter Willis McGahee and backup Travis Henry missed practice Wednesday, leaving the Bills' battered offensive backfield uncertain for Sunday's game at San Francisco.

3 Bills named to Pro Bowl

Bills linebacker Takeo Spikes, defensive tackle Sam Adams and kick returner Terrence McGee were voted to the Pro Bowl today.

Bills Place Dorenbos on IR; Sign Brown

The Bills announced today that the team has signed RB Dante Brown to the 53-man roster.

Bills RB Henry rules himself out against 49ers

Bills running back Travis Henry said he won't play at San Francisco on Sunday, and might not return from an ankle injury unless Buffalo makes the playoffs.

Winning in one dimension

The Bills are 8-6 and might make the playoffs. That's incredible because after the Patriots crushed them 29-6 on November 14, they were 3-6 and alive like a cemetery.

As Bills win, TV ratings rise

The Buffalo Bills are among the hottest teams in the National Football League and interest is climbing as the playoff chase continues.

Party to benefit Wire's foundation

WGR Sports Radio 550 and Coca-Cola Buffalo are presenting the second annual Coy Wire Lazy Man's Christmas Party on Thursday at 5 p.m. at Flappy's Famous Edibles and Elixirs, 252 Delaware at Chippewa.

Tasker knows special group when he sees it

"Let's face it, they're playing better than that group that I played with," Tasker, now a CBS Sports analyst, said Tuesday. "They're having as good a year as anybody ever had in Buffalo on special teams."

Injuries may give Williams a head start

The Braves selected Shaud Williams in the 13th round of the 1999 baseball draft and considered him a steal. He would have been selected higher if not for the fear he would attend college and play football.

Bills vs. 49ers preview

The Bills look to continue their improbable playoff run with a trip to the West coast to take on the San Francisco 49ers.

December 21, 2004

49ers Flashback: September 13, 1992

Steve Young passed for over 400 yards in three games during his 13 seasons with San Francisco. Twice, the 49ers won. The one time they didn’t was against Buffalo, falling to the Bills, 34-31.

All Business for Bills Fullback Shelton

Bills fullback Daimon Shelton may not show up on the stat sheet on Sundays, and he's perfectly fine with that.

Bills & Blankets Bring Holiday Cheer

Members of the Buffalo Bills, including star Takeo Spikes took time out to attend a holiday party at Children's hospital.

Pats' Loss Gives Steelers Room to Breathe

The Pittsburgh Steelers have a chance to play a meaningless game this season after all.

RB Brown agrees to sign with banged-up Bills

Running back Dante Brown agreed to sign with the Bills on Tuesday, bolstering a backfield that could be without Willis McGahee and Travis Henry against San Francisco this weekend.

Marv would rather be signing books

Former Buffalo Bills coach Marv Levy will be in Western New York this week signing copies of his new book, "Where Else Would You Rather Be." Levy's schedule:

Bledsoe needs to win respect from defenses

Sunday in Cincinnati, the entire offense was out of synch. Bledsoe threw some passes that could have been disasters.

McGahee injury does not appear serious

"Knee injury, and we'll just leave it at that," Mularkey said with a smile. "We're going to take it day to day."

Which Bills deserve trip to Pro Bowl?

Leo: By turning their season around with an 8-2 record since starting 0-4, at least a half-dozen Bills have played themselves into consideration for a trip to Hawaii in February.

Chilly offense can't cool off Bills

Sam Wyche enjoyed his return to Cincinnati, where once upon a time he spent eight years as the Bengals head coach.

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

REPORT CARD VS. BENGALS
Passing C+
Rushing C-
Special Teams A

Bills report: Notes, quotes

WR Lee Evans continued his march to make several all-rookie teams with five catches for 101 yards and his team-leading seventh touchdown.

Bills report: Inside slant

When the Bills' drive for an improbable playoff berth resumes this week, they'll allow themselves a few moments for individual accolades.

Ask Him Yourself: Mike Mularkey

Royce (Detroit): How instrumental has Drew Bledsoe's resolve been in the team's turnaround?
Mike Mularkey: I think Bledsoe's resolve has been a large part of it. He never was influenced by negative criticism early on.

Ask Him Yourself: Tom Donahoe

Bob Ross (aka LABillsFan): I know this is off the subject a bit, but I was wondering how the NFL determines which officiating crew works a particular game.
Tom Donahoe: Your question on officiating is a good one. Unfortunately, the League does not share a lot of information on the officials with us.

December 20, 2004

McGahee to Be Evaluated Day-to-Day

Head Coach Mike Mularkey updated Willis McGahee's health status on Monday, saying McGahee suffered a knee injury and his health status will be monitored daily this week.

Game Notes: Bills vs. Bengals

Bills Team Notes: The Bills recorded their 5th straight win on Sunday at Cincinnati, good for the longest winning streak by the team since 1999-2000 (last three games of ’99 and first two of ’00)…

Bills Receive BIG Play from Rookie Peters

The smile on Bobby April's face was as wide as Jason Peters' 6-4, 328-pound frame in the locker room after Sunday's 33-17 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals.

Bills' McGahee day-to-day with knee injury

Buffalo Bills running back Willis McGahee is considered day-to-day after suffering a right knee injury during this past Sunday's game against Cincinnati.

Bills win in Cincy, but could lose McGahee

The Buffalo Bills kept their playoff hopes alive on Sunday, but may have to continue their push towards the postseason without running back Willis McGahee, who twisted his right knee in his team's 33-17 win over the Cincinnati Bengals at Paul Brown Stadium.

McGahee has hyperextended knee

Buffalo running back Willis McGahee has a hyperextended and bruised right knee.

Buffalo cruising towards playoffs

It's really not as easy as the Buffalo Bills are making it look.

Bills report card: High marks

Bills offense Just looking at the statistics, it didn’t appear to be a good day for the Bills.

Bills stay in playoff contention

Odds are still against the Buffalo Bills making the American Football Conference playoffs as a wild card.

Bills earn stripes against Bengals

The Buffalo Bills are hoping their hottest streak in quite some time won’t go to waste.

McGahee's status for Sunday uncertain

Running back Willis McGahee has a hyperextended and bruised right knee that could prevent him from playing in Buffalo’s game Sunday at San Francisco.

McGahee having tests on injured knee; status uncertain

Running back Willis McGahee was having tests on his injured right knee Monday and could miss Buffalo's next game at San Francisco.

Bills continue their push for playoffs with 5th win in a row

Appropriately, Takeo Spikes was the last one to leave the field. He raised his right fist triumphantly and slapped hands joyously with dozens of fans who chanted his name and oozed optimism.

NFL report

Drew Bledsoe, Bills, moved ahead of Joe Montana into seventh place on the career completions list with 3,412. He went 15 of 30 for 183 yards in a win over Cincinnati.

McGahee may miss game with 49ers

Mularkey was not sure how bad the injury is, but it doesn't appear to be as severe as when McGahee tore three ligaments in his left knee while playing for the University of Miami in the Fiesta Bowl.

Bills move into tie for playoffs

The Bills' 33-17 victory over the Bengals improved them to 8-6 and moved them into a tie for the sixth and final playoff berth in the AFC.

Clements in lockdown mode against Johnson

Matched up against Johnson the entire day, Clements held the Pro Bowl wideout to just two catches for 10 yards.

Spikes turns into prophet in Cincinnati

"Spikes," he said, "I visualized you last night picking one off and taking it back for a touchdown."

"That's funny, Fletch," Spikes replied. "I was thinking about the same thing on Wednesday."

A heavyweight TKO

"I was just saying, "Enjoy it,' " the Bills' 13-year veteran said. "This is what it's all about. This is what you work so hard for - this feeling."

Bills Dailey Game Grades

The offense didn't have an explosion but they did enough to win. The defense struggled against the run but made big plays when they had to. Special teams made one big play, a few smaller ones, and flirted with disaster on a few other plays. Here are our position by position grades:

Everyone Contributes To Win:

The Bills 33-17 win was another total team effort. All three units, offense, defense, and special teams scored touchdowns in the first half and that was enough to get a huge road win to keep the Bills playoff hopes alive

Bills' McGahee, slightly hurt, sits early just to be safe

Running back Willis McGahee twisted his surgically rebuilt left knee on a catch Sunday and sat out the fourth quarter of the Buffalo Bills' 33-17 victory vs. Cincinnati as a precaution.

Bills 33, Bengals 17-Another Losing Season Looms After Kitna, Offense Self-Destruct

A Spikes in Bengals' heart

Bills inch closer to Steelers showdown

Spikes gets TKO

Couldn't get hands on enough turnovers

Blocked punt painful, not special

Spikes' return a dream come true

Big chill on Sunday played into Bills' hands

Mistakes make for miserable day

Takeo finally plays for playoffs

Notebook: Blocked punt ends run with thud

Bills continue to pay off

The greatest gift of all arrived on the banks of the Ohio River yesterday, addressed to the Buffalo Bills and wrapped in black and burnt orange.

Buffalo Bills report card

Quarterback: Drew Bledsoe wasn't great, but then he didn't have to be with the way Buffalo's defense and special teams were playing.

Buffalo's drive is alive

Buffalo's victory, coupled with Jacksonville's win over Green Bay, Denver's loss to Kansas City and Baltimore's 20-10 loss at Indianapolis has left all four teams tied at 8-6. Baltimore and Jacksonville have both beaten the Bills head-to-head.

The two-minute read

Play of the game

Jason Peters' blocked punt for a touchdown.

Spikes scores big 'TKO' in Ohio homecoming

There were days at old Riverfront Stadium and the shiny new football palace that sits on the banks of the Ohio River named for Bengals founder Paul Brown when Takeo Spikes felt the love in Cincinnati.

December 19, 2004

Bills D and STs Drags O Through Game By The Hair

In a Sentence: The defense and special teams dragged the offense down the field by the hair again!

Bills in the Thick of the Playoff Picture

It's been four years since the Bills have made a serious playoff push this late in the season, but thanks to their five-game winning streak the Bills are right in the hunt in the highly competitive AFC. Buffalo's 33-17 victory over Cincinnati eliminated the Bengals from playoff contention, making one less team the Bills have to worry about.

Bills keep playoff hopes alive

His final season as a modestly talented tight end coincided with Chuck Noll's last hurrah on the sideline, and it was probably during that 1991 campaign with the Pittsburgh Steelers that Mike Mularkey was initially exposed to the Hall of Fame coach's favorite and most often-used exhortation to his troops.

Happy homecoming

All Takeo Spikes had to do was make the catch and leave the Bengals behind one more time.

McGahee twists knee, sits out last quarter

Running back Willis McGahee twisted his surgically rebuilt left knee on a catch Sunday, and sat out the fourth quarter of the Buffalo Bills' 33-17 victory over Cincinnati as a precaution.

Bills Win Fifth Straight

Bills linebacker Takeo Spikes returned an interception 62 yards for a touchdown as the Buffalo defense forced four Cincinnati turnovers in a 33-17 win at Paul Brown Stadium.

NFL Game Summary - Buffalo at Cincinnati

Rian Lindell kicked a career-high four field goals to lead Buffalo over Cincinnati, 33-17, at Paul Brown Stadium.

Bills freeze Bengals out of playoffs

For the second straight week against a playoff contender, the Bengals self-destructed with turnovers and gaffes and blew up their own playoff chances as well as a shot at a winning season during an ugly and cold 33-17 loss here to the Bills at Paul Brown Stadium.

Punching the clock

It's going to be difficult for the Buffalo Bills to catch the Pittsburgh Steelers for the No. 1 ranking among NFL defenses this season.

Mularkey's toughness drives Bills' resurgence

The rookie coach believed he was doing the right things; if the players persevered, the wins would come.

Bills, Bengals making a run with red-hot offenses

When the Bills run
The plan is the same as it is every week - give the ball to RB Willis McGahee, a lot.

Mental toughness of Bills nears its final exam

One of the things that impressed me about Mike Mularkey when he was hired to coach the Bills was his aim to field a team that was both physically and mentally tough.

Bills savor taste of big stakes

It has been five years since the Buffalo Bills played a football game on Christmas week that meant this much.

A Gifted Class

Immediate help is what the Buffalo Bills had in mind for their offense when they took Lee Evans with the 13th pick in April's draft.

Donahoe well aware of QB's needs

Give Buffalo general manager Tom Donahoe a lot of credit this year for really understanding his quarterback. That is a big reason the Bills have overcome an 0-4 start to put themselves in position for the playoffs at 7-6 overall. (Subscription)

Give the Bills their fair share

The Buffalo Bills are rarely featured as a cover story, and they're lucky if a black and white picture appears in the inner pages.

Cincinnati Bengals vs the Buffalo Bills

The Bengals are vying for one of those key wildcard slots, and it just may be possible. They have will have to win out their remaining games, but they have a chance. The Buffalo Bills are in the same position, and beating the Bengals is a must for them.

WHERE ARE THEY NOW -Daryle Lamonica

Nobody symbolized the Raiders' rise to glory in the 1960s more than quarterback Daryle Lamonica, a.k.a. "The Mad Bomber," a nickname given him by Howard Cosell for his long touchdown passes.

Special day on tap

They are talking comebacks and one of the bigger comebacks Sunday is former Bengals head coach Sam Wyche having a hand and arm in a Bills offense just off its highest four-game stretch ever as Buffalo’s quarterbacks coach.

'Odd couple' of friends turn foes when Bills visit Bengals

When Buffalo Bills coach Mike Mularkey and Cincinnati Bengals offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski were assistants in Pittsburgh, they were pro football's version of the "Odd Couple."

Isolation booth - Terrence McGee

In what could be a high-scoring game despite the Bills' outstanding defense, the Bengals can't afford to give up points or significant field position in the kicking game.

More to friends than the job

Jon Kitna had purposely stayed quiet all season. Then Palmer's knee injury pushed Kitna into the spotlight this past week. And he let everyone know that he and Palmer didn't just get along at the office.

Who's got the edge?

The Bills are hot. They've averaged 38.5 points in their last four games, all victories. They have the league's No. 3-ranked defense.

What you need to know about Bengals vs. Bills

With both teams alive for a postseason berth, PBS will take on a playoff atmosphere as fans eagerly await the return of former Bengals LB Takeo Spikes, who is in his second year with the Bills. Buffalo (7-6) has won four straight, averaging 38.5 points in that stretch, while the Bengals (6-7) have won four of six.

Gameday notebook: Kitna is back in familiar role: Bengals starter

With Carson Palmer nursing a sprained left knee, Jon Kitna is expected to take the reins of the Cincinnati Bengals' potent offense one more time and start at quarterback against the Buffalo Bills today.

Plenty at stake in Bengals-Bills game

As kickoff approaches, Buffalo linebacker Takeo Spikes said what everybody's thinking.

Q&A: Troy Vincent

It was the longest stretch of games Troy Vincent had missed in his brilliant 13-year NFL career.

Bills' Spikes set to tackle his former team

Takeo Spikes had made up his mind. He was kicking the Ohio mud off his spikes and leaving as a free agent.

Bills-Bengals winner still can make the postseason

 Two months ago the Buffalo Bills were saddled with an unsightly 1-5 record and they had scored a grand total of 77 points in those first six games.

Several Bills worthy of Pro Bowl nod

The Buffalo Bills have had at least two players selected for the Pro Bowl every year since the bad old days of 1985 and 1986, when none went.

BEING IN THE PLAYOFF HUNT IN DECEMBER IS A NEW EXPERIENCE FOR SPIKES

THE WAY he plays football, Takeo Spikes is the farthest thing from a loser, which is not to say the Buffalo Bills linebacker doesn't know about losing.

Bills GM Donahoe makes right moves

A month ago, it was rumored Buffalo general manager Tom Donahoe would be in trouble after another disappointing season, his fourth with the Bills.

December 18, 2004

Barring miracle, Kitna's the starter

The news doesn't come as a surprise, but Jon Kitna will -- barring an unexpected turn of events -- start Sunday's game at Paul Brown Stadium at quarterback for the Bengals against the Buffalo Bills.

Spikes happy with move to Bills

It's been two years since Takeo Spikes last played a football game in Cincinnati.

Bengals staying focused

Sunday's game against Buffalo at Paul Brown Stadium is exactly the kind of game Lewis has been preparing his team to play in -- a December contest with playoff ramifications for both teams.

Bills keep rolling towards postseason

The journey to Cincinnati amounts to a mini-playoff in itself, with the Bengals and Bills each fighting to keep their tenuous hopes alive.

Showtime for Schobel brothers

Bills defensive end Aaron Schobel will be reunited Sunday with his brother, third-year Bengals tight end Matt Schobel.

A punter's deep thoughts

"He's made some huge, huge plays," Bills special teams coordinator Bobby April said, "just unbelieveable plays, when you think about it.

Kitna gets chance to prove his merit

Jon Kitna may be the perfect backup quarterback; that won't be proven until Sunday afternoon against the Buffalo Bills

Palmer is all but ruled out

Starter Carson Palmer, who has a sprained left knee, did not practice Friday for the third consecutive day.

Spikes finally gets a big game in December

The Buffalo Bills (7-6) have barged into the field of playoff contenders by winning four straight and seven of their last nine games.

Tricks of Bills a real treat

Chris Villarrial was skeptical at first; the veteran Bills guard thought there was no way these back-yard, gimmick plays would work against sophisticated NFL defenses.

December 17, 2004

Browns gain 9 yards with scoring change; boosts game total to 26

The Cleveland Browns' offense was pretty awful last weekend, just not quite as awful as everyone thought.

Williams upgraded, should play

Offensive tackle Mike Williams practiced for the second straight day on Thursday and should be ready to go on Sunday.

No More Doubters Across the League

Regardless of what happens the last few weeks of the season, the Bills have made their point. They have proven to be an up and coming team in the NFL and they are a group of guys that no one wants to see coming up on their schedule.

Bengals Have Balanced Attack

We didn't know until the end of the game that as a defense we had only given up 17 total yards to the Browns. I've never been involved in a defensive game like that.

Tops Game Ball Winner: Troy Vincent

The Buffalo Bills selected cornerback/safety Troy Vincent as the Tops Game Ball of the Week winner for his performance against the Cleveland Browns on Dec. 12.

Question Mark

Q: Since Terrence McGee is so fast and has so much range, why not put him at free safety and Vincent back at cornerback?

'Odd Couple' of friends turn foes when Bills visit Bengals

When Buffalo Bills coach Mike Mularkey and Cincinnati Bengals offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski were assistants in Pittsburgh, they were pro football's version of the "Odd Couple."

Williams expected to play vs. Bengals

Bills offensive tackle Mike Williams is expected to play Sunday against Cincinnati after missing one game with an injured right knee.

Vincent's new job

Troy Vincent reaches into his locker and pulls out a thick stack of papers as evidence of his rekindled passion. He's holding the Buffalo Bills' defensive game plan, something Vincent never used to carry around.

Palmer not yet counting self out

A day after all but declaring himself out for Sunday's game against Buffalo, Carson Palmer on Thursday held out the possibility that he would play.

SS Beckett doubtful to play against Bills

There were three updates to the Bengals' injury report Thursday.

The Cell Phone Game

There are blood brothers, like Bengals tight end Matt Schobel and Bills defensive end Aaron Schobel and there are the brothers-in-arms, like Bengals linebacker Brian Simmons and Bills linebacker Takeo Spikes.

Bills defense the grinch that steals offense

The Buffalo Bills' ridiculous defensive effort against the Cleveland Browns last Sunday has rocketed them back into contention for the NFL's No. 1 overall defensive ranking with three games to play.

December 16, 2004

Bills offense suddenly clicking at prolific pace

Plenty of touchdowns, a string of 30-plus point games and a balanced scoring attack -- now that's an offense more to Drew Bledsoe's liking.

Game 14: Bills vs. Bengals

This is the single biggest of game of the year for the Bills. Every game is a must win to keep their slim playoff hopes alive but this is the toughest one with the exception of the finale against Pittsburgh.

Cincinnati Game Provides Opportunity for Bills

The "Smoke and Mirrors" Express makes its next stop this Sunday as the Bills hit the road to face a relatively equally matched Cincinnati team although one with a dichotomy of strengths.

Stayin' Alive

Call it the Music City Jinx. Ever since “Homerun Throwback” the Bills franchise has been reduced to the role of outsider. Forget the playoffs, how about a playoff race?

Playoff Atmosphere Expected this Week

The Bills and Bengals both have their playoff chances hanging by a thread and both will be desperate this week to keep those hopes alive. One loss and you're most likely not going to the postseason.

Lewis: Bengals better, but not there

Marvin Lewis only has to look at his offense now against this Bills team and the one that played them 25 games ago on Oct. 5, 2003 in Buffalo in a 22-16 loss, the only overtime loss in the Lewis era. The Bengals didn’t have a 100-yard performer and scored just one touchdown. The difference between now and then “is incredible,” Lewis said.

Battle-tested Bengals try Bills

The Bengals are convinced this Buffalo defense is the best one they’ve played all year, if you can believe that in a season the NFL schedule maker conjured up some kind of '60s psychedelic nightmare for a team with a first-year quarterback.

Buffalo (7-6) At Cincinnati (6-7) Capsule

KEY MATCHUP - Bills RB Willis McGahee vs. Bengals FS Madieu Williams and LB Brian Simmons. Bills are 7-0 when McGahee gains at least 90 yards this season.

Buffalo at Cincinnati Preview

Following a loss to the Baltimore Ravens on October 24, the Buffalo Bills looked to have no hope of reaching the playoffs, but now the Bills are in the thick of the AFC wild card race heading into Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Bengals, who could be without starting quarterback Carson Palmer due to a knee injury.

Peter King's Weekend Preview

When's the last time Buffalo and Cincinnati this late in a season played in something that might be considered the game of the week?

Spikes Set For Queen City Return

In addition to being in playoff contention for the first time in his playing career, Buffalo Bills linebacker Takeo Spikes has something else to look forward to this week when his team travels to Cincinnati to face the Bengals.

Palmer says he's out Sunday

Cincinnati Bengals hotshot quarterback Carson Palmer is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Buffalo Bills, but the chances he will play appear bleak.

Turnaround by Teague leads charge

Last month, after the breakthrough win in Seattle, I was walking past center Trey Teague in the Bills' locker room when he called after me in his familiar Tennessee drawl: "What, you only want to talk to me when I screw up?"

Big game hunting

One Cincinnati Bengals receiver thinks he's uncoverable, another is starting to think he's invincible and a third is one of the biggest players at his position in the NFL.

Banta should help Bills

With injuries depleting its tight end position, and long snapper Jon Dorenbos now out with a knee injury, the Buffalo Bills have moved to kill two birds with one stone.

London Fletcher packs a big punch

Ever since he broke into the National Football League as an undrafted free agent with St. Louis in 1998, London Fletcher has been considered "an undersized linebacker."

Bills turn around, keep balance

One month into the season, they were 0-4. But in the case of the red-hot Buffalo Bills, it's not so much how they started a rebuilding campaign with new coach in Mike Mularkey. It's how they can finish.

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

PLAYER PERSONNEL NOTES:
--RB Willis McGahee needs just 78 yards to reach 1,000 in only eight starts. His nine rushing TDs are the second most by a Bills first-year running back. Joe Cribbs had 11 in 1980.
--FS Troy Vincent's defensive "hat trick" against the Browns was a rarity. He's the only Bill since 1989 to have a sack, interception and fumble recovery in one game.

Bills report: Notes, quotes

The Bills' surge into playoff contention has apparently secured president and general manager Tom Donahoe's future in Buffalo. "He can be here as long as he wants. He's done a good job. I'm happy," owner Ralph Wilson stated recently.

Bills report: Inside slant

OK, so what has to happen for the Bills to make the NFL playoffs? In a nutshell, win out and pray.

Palmer expects to miss game against Bills

Carson Palmer was still on crutches Wednesday and resigned to missing the Cincinnati Bengals' next game because of a sprained left knee.

Bills Gear Up For Bengals

The Buffalo Bills playoff push continues this Sunday at Cincinnati as this weeks match up features two of the AFC's hottest teams of late.

Spikes fired up for first trip back to Cincinnati

Coach Mike Mularkey tried to pull a fast one, telling Takeo Spikes that he might hold him out the first few plays against Cincinnati this weekend.

December 15, 2004

The Bills Zone's Q&A with TKO

Spikes lives to play do-or-die

Bills linebacker Takeo Spikes, who has three sacks, three interceptions, and three forced fumbles for the rampaging Buffalo defense, admits “the emotions are going to be wild, man,” when he meets up with his ex-mates Sunday in Cincinnati.

Fear factor applies to Bills

Buffalo can improve to 8-6 with a win at Cincinnati, positioning themselves for a late-season wild-card push and improbable playoff bid after a 1-5 start.

Safety valve

Troy Vincent spent his entire 13-year NFL career as an elite cornerback before the Buffalo Bills switched him to free safety for last Sunday's game against the Cleveland Browns.

From Joe Fan: I believe

After an inauspicious 0-4 start, it was looking like another one of those seasons for the Buffalo Bills. You know, the kind that begin with high expectations and end in disillusionment.

Cincinnati a Fierce Opponent for Buffalo

Two months ago, the only people who believed the Buffalo Bills could make the playoffs were the Bills themselves.

Wyche's comeback comes back

Now, Sam Wyche is the Bills quarterbacks coach who has helped revive Drew Bledsoe’s career and, quite naturally, his playoff run is crisscrossing with the postseason dash of a Bengals team that last went to the playoffs with Wyche as the head coach.

Spikes set to dig in on familiar ground

When the Bills visit Cincinnati on Sunday, it will be Spikes' first return to a city where he spent the first five seasons of his NFL career.

Offense could need Kitna again

Even if Carson Palmer can’t come back and play this season on his sprained left knee, he has already done what no quarterback in Bengals history has done.

Bills place TE Euhus on IR

The Buffalo Bills placed rookie Tim Euhus on injured reserve with a right knee injury Tuesday, the second tight end the team has lost this season.

December 14, 2004

Bills Sign Banta; Place Euhus on IR

For the second straight week the Bills have been forced to place a tight end on injured reserve.

Comeback catalyst: McGahee

If you want to know the underrated aspect of the McGahee comeback story, start with Jannie, his mother, a South Florida native with a sweet voice and soulful eyes, who's been behind McGahee all the way, prodding him, encouraging him, reminding him of how far he's come.

In Vincent, Buffalo finds a free safety for the future

Remember last season when the Buffalo Bills’ took us on a two-month tease about how the team’s No. 1 draft choice would finally return to the field after blowing out his knee the previous January.

Believe in the Bills

Since starting 0-4, the Buffalo Bills are 7-2. They're rapidly becoming The AFC Team No One Wants To See Win The Second Wild Card.

Potential Mascot For Buffalo Bills Escapes In Louisville

Thompson says "the deal was if I could get a halter on this bull, and get him broke, he would be the future mascot of the Buffalo Bills.

BillsZone’s Postgame Report Card: Bills vs. Browns

Quarterbacks Drew Bledsoe struggled all day in windy, wet conditions. He had problems finding the receivers, especially Eric Moulds. It was a big change from what we have seen from Drew over the last few weeks. Luckily we didn’t need the passing game to click, because the running game and defense were clicking. Bledsoe was 12/27 for 100 yards, and threw 1 INT and 1 TD. The touchdown was a nice 7-yard pass to Lee Evans. JP Losman came in for garbage time and had a nice drive, basically handing the ball off. He also made a couple nice plays, completing 1/2 passes for 10 yards, and avoiding a sack, by running 10 yards for the first down. Most of the time, he just handed the ball off, though. Hopefully, Bledsoe will do better next week, because the Bills will need him to stay sharp against a pretty tough defense. Grade: C

Running Backs: Willis McGahee ran hard all day and was the key part of the offense. He may not have gotten the 4-5 yards per carry, but he did get over 100 yards for the day and he fought for all of the yards. McGahee had 27 carries for 105 yards, and ran for 2 touchdowns. He also caught 2 passes for 12 yards. However, he also had 2 fumbles, one of them was recovered by Trey Teague. While his other fumble was a fumbled snap, which the Browns recovered. Joe Burns had 1 carry for 2 yards. Meanwhile, Shaud Williams finally got a chance to show his stuff at the end of the game. Williams had 10 carries for 42 yards, including a 4-yard touchdown run, and caught 1 pass for 10 yards. Daimon Shelton made some nice blocks for both running backs, and also caught 1 pass for 1 yard. Grade: A

Wide Receivers: Eric Moulds was the key target all day. He had problems holding onto the ball for some reason and didn’t seem like himself. He did catch the longest pass of the day, a 24-yarder. Moulds had 3 catches for 38 yards. Lee Evans caught the only touchdown and led the team in receptions. Evans had 4 receptions for 33 yards. His biggest play was a beautiful 48-yard gain on a reverse. Josh Reed caught 1 pass for 6 yards, and it converted a 3rd down and 5. Jonathan Smith took a direct snap on 3rd and 8 and converted it with a nice 8-yard run. Overall, it was an average day by the receivers. Eric Moulds was the main target of the day and he couldn’t catch a thing, especially in the end zone, where he dropped a couple passes. Grade: C+

Tight Ends: The tight ends weren’t heard from until the end of the game, when JP Losman threw 2 to them. Jason Peters dropped one of the passes and the other was a 10-yard pass caught by Rod Trafford. Ryan Neufeld and Jason Peters did a nice job blocking for Willis McGahee though. Hopefully, one of these guys steps it up, because it looks like both Campbell and now Tim Euhus are going to be out for the rest of the season. Grade: B

Offensive Line: It was another solid day for this unit. They didn’t miss a beat, even without starting RT Mike Williams. Marcus Price did a great job in his place. Bledsoe had lots of time to throw and when he didn’t, he was able to get rid of the ball. The line also did a good job making holes for the running game. Grade: A

Defensive Line: The line did a great job pressuring the quarterbacks and had a total of 4 sacks from the ends and tackles. Aaron Schobel had a pretty good game. A major penalty killed him, as he had an off sides penalty in the red zone which negated an interception. However, he did a nice job putting pressure on the quarterback, and had 1 sack. Schobel also did a good job stopping the running game with 5 total tackles. He ended the day with 5 tackles, 1 sack, and a forced fumble. Chris Kelsay had 2 tackles and a sack, and recovered the fumble that Schobel forced. Sam Adams had a monster game. Adams had 4 tackles, and 2 sacks. He was able to get to the quarterback, thanks to Pat Williams who did a great job plugging the middle. Grade: A+

Linebackers: Takeo Spikes was dominant again on Sunday. He was making plays all over the place. Spikes had 7 tackles, 1 sack, and 2 forced fumbles. London Fletcher was roaming all over the field. He was constantly in the backfield pressuring the quarterback and stopping the running back. Fletcher finished the game with 6 total tackles. Jeff Posey also had a pretty good game with 2 tackles and 1 sack. Grade: A

Secondary: It looks like we found the missing link. Troy Vincent was the player of the game on Sunday. He was the starting free safety and made up for all of his time that he was out for. Vincent had 2 tackles and the hat trick with 1 sack, 1 interception, and even a fumble recovery. Lawyer Milloy was quiet on the other side with 3 tackles, but he also had a sack. Nate Clements had a solid game with good coverage. Clements also had 3 tackles, 1 interception and a fumble recovery. Terrence McGee did a good job anchoring the other side. McGee finished the day with 7 tackles, and an interception that was called back due to a penalty. The unit held the Browns passing game to –12 passing, so obviously they did something right. Grade: A

Special Teams: It was a bad day for this unit. They struggled returning punts and turned the ball over once. Nate Clements had problems getting any yardage on his returns, averaging only 2.7 yards on 3 returns. He also fumbled the ball once, which was recovered by Cleveland and resulted in their only score. Jonathan Smith had just as much problems returning, but he held onto the ball. Smith went backwards for 10 yards on one return. However, he also had a nice 26-yard return after a reverse from Clements. The special teams unit also had problems with their field goal team. First they had a penalty wipe out a field goal. Then, Brian Moorman fumbled the snap on the next play. He tried to throw a pass to Denney, but it wasn’t close enough. Brian Moorman did a pretty good job with punting. He had an average of 38-yards on 3 punts, with a 53-yarder as his longest. Moorman also kicked 2 of them within the 5-yard line. One of them was illegally touched however. The only solid unit for this group was the coverage team. They held Richard Alston to an average of 19.6 yards on 6 returns. The other 2 players who returned kicks were held to 13 and 22 yards respectively. Grade: C+

Coaching: Mike Mularkey coached another good game. It’s hard to believe that this same team was 0-4 to start the season. They have done a great job turning things around and if they make the playoffs, it is definitely well deserved. The offense struggled a bit, but they kept pounding the ball with Willis McGahee. This helped the Bills offense keep Cleveland off the field as they held a 36:55 to 23:05 time of possession advantage. As for the defense…I agree with Mularkey. The only word that comes to mind is WOW! Only 17 total yards allowed?? What a great job by the defense. They have really started to dominate after a slow start. It’s nice to see sacks, and team that is forcing a lot of turnovers. The first thing to do in the off-season, in my opinion is to re-sign Pat Williams and keep this awesome defense intact. This may be the best defense the Bills have ever had. Let’s hope they can do the same thing to Cincinnati next week and get the Bills closer to the playoffs. Grade: A

Playoff hopes depend on getting help

If everything goes right, the Buffalo Bills will be doing a lot of scoreboard watching over the next three weeks.

Bills display resilience

"To battle back with the adversity that they faced . . . it's easy, especially in this day and age with the media, the fans and the pressure from outside, to possibly waver and they never have. It's a credit to them."

Tough task this Sunday

One month ago today, on Nov. 14, when Buffalo lost at New England to fall to 3-6, the Bengals' game Sunday against the Bills looked a whole lot different than it does now.

50-50 chance QB Palmer will play

Carson Palmer underwent an MRI Sunday night that showed no damage to the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.

Is this the best defense Buffalo's ever had?

Obviously this is a talented group and they have played like one of the best defenses in the league this season, but the best ever in Buffalo? That might be taking it a bit too far.

Donahoe's job secure: Bills are on a roll, and Wilson is happy with GM

The Buffalo Bills' two-month winning surge hasn't just landed the team in the thick of the NFL playoff chase.

How Good are the Bills?

Of all the teams that the Bills have beaten, those opponents have only beaten winning teams themselves twice in 18 games played vs. teams now with winning records and not including the Rams two wins over Seattle.

Bills report: Inside slant

Defensive coordinator Jerry Gray never thought twice about starting 13-year NFL veteran cornerback Troy Vincent at free safety against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday.

Bills Report Card

PASS DEFENSE A-plus -- It would be hard to play much better. The Bills allowed a team-record low minus-12 yards passing, collecting eight sacks and two more interceptions against overmatched rookie QB Luke McCown.

Bills report: Notes, quotes

LB London Fletcher, CB Nate Clements and WR Lee Evans, each a Cleveland-area native, shed nary a tear for the state of their hometown team.

Bring the bleu, leave the bones

The most alluring play on Sunday was the drama being played out hard by Lake Erie. Ah, Buffalo. The forgotten NFL city.

How Good are the Bills?

Of all the teams that the Bills have beaten, those opponents have only beaten winning teams themselves twice in 18 games played vs. teams now with winning records and not including the Rams two wins over Seattle.

Ask Him Yourself: Tom Donahoe

Quinn O'Brien: Are there contracts with players that encourage team results (i.e. making playoffs, wins in a season, etc.)?
Donahoe: With regard to contracts, incentives can be done on an individual basis and they can also be done on a team basis. Many times that depends on the player and the agent negotiating the contract.

Ask Him Yourself: Mike Mularkey

Cyril Abraham: You started Troy Vincent at free safety against the Cleveland Browns and he was very effective. Do you plan to start him at safety the rest of the season?
Mularkey: We'll re-evaluate the decision to play Troy Vincent at safety and see if it's the best fit. Speaking Monday, after his first game at that position, I will say that he will play free safety for our next game.

December 13, 2004

Notebook: Palmer questionable for Bills' Homecoming

The Bengals are coming off their first stretch in history of rolling up at least 450 yards of offense in three straight games, but two key figures in that drive may not play Sunday against Buffalo’s No. 3 defense at Paul Brown Stadium.

Bengals' Palmer Questionable for Sunday

 Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Carson Palmer is questionable for Sunday's game against Buffalo after an MRI exam Monday revealed no serious damage to his left knee.

The numbers don't lie — The Browns are awful

After a slow start, the Bills were efficient for most of the game; the yardage numbers may not seem gaudy, but there’s nothing wrong with scoring 37 points.

Bills’ defense smart, physical — and humble

Holding the Cleveland Browns to 17 yards of total offense and minus-12 yards passing weren’t the numbers the Buffalo Bills defense wanted to talk about after Sunday’s 37-7 win over the Cleveland Browns at Ralph Wilson Stadium.

Bills Offense Playing with Confidence

As it would turn out, the Bills put 37 points on the scoreboard against the Browns, surpassing the 30-point mark for the fourth straight game and the first time over a four-game stretch since the 1992 season.

Vincent’s return fuels a record-setting day for ‘D’

Let’s put it in perspective. In the 45 seasons of the Buffalo Bills’ franchise, before Sunday, they had never surrendered under 88 yards in a single game.

Browns’ Robiskie: ‘It was men against boys’

If the Cleveland Browns had any idea of turning Ralph Wilson Stadium into their Dawg Pound away from home, the idea died early.

Buffalo’s defense crushes Cleveland

If the resurgent Buffalo Bills don’t make the NFL playoffs, this will be one of the most unrequited seasons in franchise history.

Browns roll over

Luke McCown, having retreated a few steps after taking the snap from center, looked upfield to take in a most unwelcome sight.

Grading the Bills

Coaching (A+)
Record-setting day by the defense. Gray kept heat on young QB. Offense was creative. Mularkey has them on a roll.

Bills host a smackdown

THE BIG PICTURE Nothing warms up a snowy day in Buffalo like domination by the Bills.

Browns bothered by big beating

"It was men against boys if you want to be honest about it," Robiskie said. "The speed of the game, the tempo of the game, the environment, the crowd, the weather, the noise . . . a lot of it was too big for some of our kids we had playing."

Uneven offense able to pile it on

But what does it say about an offense when it struggles that much and still puts up 37 points?

Vincent passes on-the-job training with flying colors

Welcome back, Troy Vincent. After missing nine games, the veteran cornerback made a spectacular return to the Buffalo Bills' lineup Sunday.

Game plans get buoyed by a bit of Tom's foolery

The Bills are up 10 on their way to a 37-7 rout in The Ralph and Clements has enhanced his reputation as the NFL's newest master of illusion.

'D' solidifies standing as foundation of franchise

Takeo Spikes says he had no idea about the statistics, no clue the Buffalo defense was sniffing around the NFL record for fewest yards allowed in a game Sunday.

That's a wrap!

Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Sam Adams burst through the line in the second quarter of Sunday's game and brought the entire weight of his 350-pound frame on top of Cleveland quarterback Luke McCown. "He fell on my head and I got up and was a little dizzy," the Browns rookie said.

Defense Delivers Big Win, Keeps Bills Alive

It was one of the most dominating defensive performances in Buffalo Bills history and it kept the Bills in the playoff picture in the AFC.

D-day for Browns

"We just took advantage of everything that was given to us out there today," Bills linebacker Takeo Spikes said. "(Like) coach Marv Levy used to say, 'play at a level they are unwilling to match.' "

Buffalo may be playing for pride

Despite playing their best football in a number of years that could take them all the way to a 10-6 record should they win their final three games, the Bills are far from assured of a playoff berth.

Vincent to the rescue for Buffalo Bills

Vincent, who missed eight games after having knee surgery in early October, set the tone with a sack of Cleveland rookie quarterback Luke McCown on the Browns' first play, came up with a key interception a few minutes later and also recovered a fumble.

The whole 17 yards

"A coach comes in and he tells you not to quit, but it seems like things got rough and he bailed on us," cornerback Daylon McCut cheon said.

Bills' defense a recipe for Browns' disaster

Following a seven-takeaway showing at Miami last week, the Bills forced five turnovers against Cleveland.

Lip fattened, QB flattened in Buffalo stampede

Terry Robiskie identified rookie Luke McCown as one of the "boys playing against men" and said his young quarterback was rattled by the blitzing Bills.

McCown survives Buffalo blitz

The most remarkable part of the 37-7 loss to the Buffalo Bills on Sunday was Browns rookie quarterback Luke McCown actually could walk and talk when the game was over.

Bills crush Browns

The Bills (7-6) generated five turnovers, added eight sacks and limited the blundering Browns to 17 yards of offense on 46 plays.

Browns set record with 17 yards of net offense against Bills

Browns fans' worst fears have been realized. After six years, it's time to start over. Agonizing over the present serves no purpose. Rock bottom came Sunday with an embarrassing thud.

New position, but same big plays from Vincent

The 13-year NFL defensive back was dying to ditch the crutches and the pompoms and return to the football field.

Bills display a mean streak in rout

Rookie wide receiver Lee Evans walked out of the Buffalo Bills locker room and into the warm embrace of ... Cleveland Browns fans?

McCown thrown to the wolves

Given the fact that the Bills and Browns were two teams racing in opposite directions when the day started, there wasn't much chance that Cleveland was going to come into Buffalo and steal a victory at Ralph Wilson Stadium on Sunday.

Report card

Quarterback: Drew Bledsoe couldn't maintain his strong play of recent weeks, completing just 12 of 27 passes for 100 yards with one interception, a botched handoff for a fumble, and a 51.5 rating.

Two-minute read

Play of the game
Willis McGahee's 13-yard touchdown run in the second quarter.

Bills offer prolific pounding

"Unbelievable!" the Bills Energizer Bunny of a linebacker said following Buffalo's eye-popping defensive performance against the woefully overmatched Cleveland Browns.

December 12, 2004

Bills Run Down Browns 37-7

Contributing to one of the stingiest defensive performances in NFL history, Troy Vincent had an interception, fumble recovery and sack in sparking the Buffalo Bills' 37-7 win over the Cleveland Browns. Game Center | Play by Play | Drive Charts | Team Stats | Photos

Troy Vincent made the most of his first game in two months -- playing at a new position, to boot.

The Bills (7-6) generated five turnovers, added eight sacks and limited the blundering Browns to 17 yards of offense on 46 plays.

Cleveland had 2 yards with 9:34 left in the game, flirting with the NFL record of minus-7 yards, set by Seattle in 1979.

The Browns (3-10) managed 15 yards on their final series to avoid a total embarrassment.

It is still the fewest yards the Bills have allowed, eclipsing their previous record of 88 against Baltimore in 1982. The Browns broke their futility mark of 40 yards, set against Pittsburgh in 1999, the team's first year back in Cleveland.

For Vincent, it was his first game since having surgery on his right knee after getting hurt Oct. 3 against New England. The five-time Pro Bowl selection had a great game despite debuting at free safety.

A dismal season grows more dismal

You watch Cleveland Browns games these days and you wonder: What in the world can the Browns do?

Bills Daily Game Grades

The defense dominated this game and because of that get straight A's. 17 total yards given up, eight sacks, and five takeaways. You can't do it much better than that.Here are our position by position grades:

Dominating Defense leads Bills to easy victory

The Bills offense continues to put up a huge number of points as they scored 37 or more for the fourth straight game, all Bills victories as was this 37-7 win over the Browns. The 37 points are impressive but this win was about a truly dominating defensive effort.

Just Crap-tacular!!

Today, in Buffalo, the Browns were as bad as bad can be. Maybe worse.

Browns-Bills: Scoring Summary

How the points got slapped onto the board today...

Bills leave their marks on McCown

The most remarkable part of the 37-7 loss to the Buffalo Bills on Sunday was Browns rookie quarterback Luke McCown actually could walk and talk when the game was over.

NFL Game Summary - Cleveland At Buffalo

Orchard Park, NY -- Willis McGahee ran for 105 yards and two touchdowns to lead Buffalo over Cleveland, 37-7, at a snowy Ralph Wilson Stadium.

Bills swarm Browns, roll to win

ORCHARD PARK, NY—Running back Willis McGahee and a dominant defense carried the Bills to a 37-7 win over the Browns Sunday

Vincent returns as surging Bills bury Browns

NFL Game Summary - Cleveland At Buffalo

Orchard Park, NY -- Willis McGahee ran for 105 yards and two touchdowns to lead Buffalo over Cleveland, 37-7, at a snowy Ralph Wilson Stadium

Bills stay in playoff contention with fourth straight win, 37-7 over Browns

The win was Buffalo's fourth straight and seventh in nine games, keeping it in playoff contention

Price's numbers go south in the West Coast offense

Peerless Price still is waiting for the grass to get greener in Atlanta

Surging Bills will produce a Brownout

RB Willis McGahee barely missed out on sixth 100-yard game last week

Standing PAT

Pat Williams already has made himself clear. He wants to stick around.

Clements won't get Irish job

Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Tom Clements will not be leaving the team to coach at Notre Dame.

Bills' defense enjoying hostile takeovers

The past two years, Buffalo Bills defenders had larceny in their hearts . . . but their hands were honest.

Kicking to Bills is risky business

.
Five seasons ago, poor special teams coverage of a last-second Tennessee kickoff return for a touchdown -- a.k.a. The Music City Miracle -- knocked Buffalo from the playoffs

December 11, 2004

Random thoughts from browns.com

The last time the Browns and Buffalo Bills met - on Oct. 2, 1995 at old Cleveland Stadium - represents an extremely painful memory for Browns fans.

Surging Bills won't overlook slumping Browns

The Cleveland Browns are banged up, have lost six straight, have an interim head coach and are giving rookie quarterback Luke McCown his second career start.

Stick with Warren, Robiskie urges club

Browns interim coach Terry Robiskie is urging the Browns - including owner Randy Lerner - not to get rid of defensive tackle Gerard Warren.

Green staying away from the spotlight

William Green has been lying low since his costly fumble against the New England Patriots. The Browns running back wasn't seen in the locker room during the media interview period this week.

Bills facing second interim coach in as many games

Surely, it’s happened before ... an NFL team facing interim head coaches in back-to-back weeks. But it’s a first for the Buffalo Bills who will do exactly that on Sunday afternoon against the Cleveland Browns at the soldout “Ralph.”

Bills' prize catch idolized Browns

Former Bedford High star Lee Evans admits that Sunday's game against the Browns is special.

McDonald's helps lift blackout

"Little did I know what I was going to start," Mularkey said jokingly as he was handed a cheeseburger by a McDonald's representative.

Vincent might play vs. Browns

Bills cornerback Troy Vincent could play for the first time in more than two months Sunday against Cleveland.

Under the radar

If it's possible for a player on pace for 91 catches and 1,120 yards to go unnoticed, wide receiver Eric Moulds has done it.

Surging Bills won't overlook slumping Browns

Not so fast, Lawyer Milloy said. “This is a dangerous situation to be in,” the safety said.

Donahoe's plan for building Bills finally kicking in

Tom Donahoe was becoming known as Tom Dona-woe in some circles.

Official Bills vs Browns Press Releases

December 10, 2004

April: Recent Injuries Have An Affect

Getting Terrence McGee to the Pro Bowl would be a great recognition of achievement for the players blocking for him this year.

Tops Game Ball Winner: Drew Bledsoe

Buffalobills.com visitors selected quarterback Drew Bledsoe as the Tops Game Ball of the Week winner for his performance against the Miami Dolphins on Dec. 5. Bledsoe posted a passer rating of 132.9 yards and tied his career-high with four touchdown passes.

McGee a Dangerous Weapon to Have

Terrence McGee has had a break-out season. If he doesn't get into the Pro Bowl this year it will be a travesty. He's already scored three touchdowns and he may get some more before this thing is said and done.

Lost season leaves Garcia frustrated

Jeff Garcia said Thursday that he didn't need to stand up in interim coach Terry Robiskie's first team meeting to show that he's a leader.

Scouting report: Browns vs. Bills

Last meeting: Bills won, 22-19, on Oct.2, 1995, in Cleveland. As Art Modell was secretly meeting to move his team to Baltimore, the Browns wasted Andre Rison's best game and fell to Marv Levy's Bills. All the Browns' points came on special teams.

Cleveland Game Made for “Resurgent” Bills

The “Smoke and Mirrors” Roller Coaster Ride to nowhere continues on this Sunday as the Bills head back home to the Ralph to host Cleveland in a game made for GM Commander Tom .

McDonald's buys rest of Bills tickets

Thanks to a 24-hour NFL extension and a corporate lifeline from the Golden Arches, the Buffalo Bills' game against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday at Ralph Wilson Stadium will be televised locally, the team announced.

Bills' Vincent Could Play Against Browns

Bills cornerback Troy Vincent could play for the first time in more than two months Sunday against Cleveland.

McGee makes best of new opportunity

Growing up in Athens, the one in Texas and not Greece, Terrence McGee never thought all that much about visiting faraway places.

Black Out Lifted for Sunday's Game

The Bills today announced that this weekend's game between the Cleveland Browns and Buffalo Bills has been sold out in time to lift the television black-out.

Buffalo has chance to stomp Browns when their down

Thanks to last week’s losses by three teams Buffalo is chasing for the final wild-card berth in the American Football Conference -- Baltimore, Denver and Jacksonville -- the Bills find themselves poised for their first serious playoff drive of the century.

This is the week to get Bills in your lineup

So if you've been itching to put your Bills into your fantasy lineup, it figures this is the week to pull the trigger.

Returners on Bills' special teams are way above average

The Bills are on pace to set their single-season record for both punt return average and kickoff return average - an amazing accomplishment in one season.

Browns vs Bills: Inside the odds

I know the Bills are somehow in the playoff hunt and when you slip that oddity into the woeful state of affairs on the other shore of Lake Erie, maybe the oddsmaker is right saddling Buffalo with 11 points.

Black and Blue Browns

The Browns are saddled with a 3-9 record, it is on a six-game losing streak, its coach quit a couple of weeks ago, and the third-string quarterback is running the offense.

Cleveland connection spurs on Bills

With three marquee players hailing from Cuyahoga County, another player born in the Cleveland area and yet another from Northern Ohio, the city of Buffalo has become a destination for former Ohio prep standouts.

Notre Dame Visits with Bills Offensive Coordinator

The University of Notre Dame made an official visit to western New York to meet with Bills offensive coordinator Tom Clements for their head coaching vacancy.

Up My Flagpole

Well another week and another Buffalo Bills win over the Miami Dolphins. Not much beats a sweep of the Dolphins, no matter how depleted the 'Fins are. First let’s look at the Bills. Another fine performance by Willis McGahee is overshadowed by 5 defensive interceptions, Terrance McGee's third kickoff returned for a touchdown and a sterling performance from Drew Bledsoe. The Buffalo Bills Drew Bledsoe Reclamation project appears to be on the road to success. Let's hope for no further bumps. The outcome of the season hangs on his preformance.

This week's MVPs go to the MCS. McGahee, McGee and McNally. Offensive line coach Jim McNally was given chicken feathers to develop in the preseason. It wasn't until the week before the season opener that McNally got to work with five guys that would even resemble a starting offensive line. He has made some super Chicken Wellington out of those feathers. There are no pro-bowlers there but the line is solid and can still get better.

Now moving onto the Miami Dolphins. Disclaimer: I hate the Miami Dolphins more than any other team in any sports league anywhere. I hate them more than the 1980 Soviet Union Hockey team, the 1966 Kansas City Chiefs and the entire NBA combined. That being said, no team has been beset by this much bad luck than the 'Fins. Ricky, David Boston, Dan Marino, Dave Wannstedt and the list goes on and on and on. AJ Feeley showed spunk in ripping up the Buffalo Bills defense for three TDs and 32 points. He also showed that the 'Fins are getting little return for their 2nd round pick investment by throwing 5 INTs. Please show me the last time Drew Bledsoe threw 5 INTs in a game and tell me that Miami wouldn't be tickled if he were their QB now. My holiday gift for the aqua and teal. Four wins to end the season. Nothing would be better than lowering that first round draft choice you get next season. By the way, have fun for another year in salary cap jail!

10 Quick thoughts this week:

• With injuries to Mark Campbell, Tim Euhus, Mike Williams and Jonas Jennings who would have thought that Jason Peters would be more valuble to the Buffalo Bills down the stretch than Josh Reed. Poor play will do that to a second rounder. Josh Reed has about 6 games into 2005 to show that he can play in this league. Right now Reed is looking like the Travis Henry of 2005.
• Buffalo Bills CB Terrance McGee is the best kick-off returner in the history of the team. He currently leads the NFL in return average and has three returns for TDs. Congrats to GM Tom Donahoe for drafting him and Special Teams coach Bobby April for devising the plans to spring his returns.
• Of the rookies wide receivers taken in the first round are any playing better than Lee Evans?
• I predict that Bledsoe will be starting somewhere in the NFL in 2005 if not right here for the Buffalo Bills.
• Jonas Jennings is worth being overpaid. Slightly overpaid, that is. I would not break the bank but this offensive line is just starting to play like a solid unit. Although I think it is a lock he goes home to play in Atlanta I still would like to see him here next year.
• 2005 will be JP Losman's "rookie" year. Look for him to be eased into play if Drew Bledsoe gets off to a slow start next season.
• Tell me that the Atlanta Falcons are not the biggest paper tiger since the Detroit Lions under Wayne Fontes. 9-4? Get a real schedule.
• The Buffalo Bills need to resign Pat Williams. No more evidence is needed then seeing teams run up the middle on them when he and Sam Adams are out of the game. The presence of the two mountains forces other teams to run to the periphery and allows the faster LBs and DBs to make the tackles. Now, if only Terrance McGee can learn to run stuff like Antoine Winfield.
• The Buffalo Bills need to resign Pat Williams. No more evidence is needed then seeing teams run up the middle on them when he and Sam Adams are out of the game. The presence of the two mountains forces other teams to run to the periphery and allows the faster LBs and DBs to make the tackles. Now, if only Terrance McGee can learn to run stuff like Antoine Winfield.
• NCAA Divison I playoffs. Can somebody grow a pair and develop a playoff system that will work. Here's mine:
  A. You make the playoffs a field of 16. You get all the bowls to bid on hosting a game...the 15 bowls that bid the highest get to host a game. He who bids the most gets to host the championship game that year. The nest two highest get the semi-finals, the next four highest get the quarterfinals and the lowest 8 get the qualifiers.
  B. Money: The money bid by the 8 bowls that host the qualifiers is pooled and divided among the 8 losers. The money bid by the 4 bowls that host the quarterfinals is pooled and divided among the 4 losers. The money bid by the 2 bowls that host the semifinal game is pooled and divided among the 2 losers. The money bid by the bowl that hosts the champion game is split 60-40 between the winner/loser.
  C. You then take the winner of 8 major conferences and the next best 8 and play them down. The other bowls, those that don't bid enough money, still exist to give other teams a chance at a post season game.

  Everybody would win. There would be a playoff system, the bowl system would still exist, teams with weaker records would still get a chance at a bowl and MORE money would flow into the college football system because if these bowl games had to bid to host a playoff game they would increase their payout to attract the game.

• Anybody miss hockey? Not me. Until the players say they want a salary cap then do't even bother.

Closing note: Notre Dame made a huge mistake firing Ty Willingham last week. Ty's players had the best academic record of any ND coaches player, ever! The Irish administration overplayed their hand thinking that Urban Meyer would just run from Utah to South Bend to coach the team. Maybe they will wake up now. I am of this program deep down, for it's academic requirements and strength of schedule and really don't want to see them change a thing. You don't need to kill the academic standards (although lowering them would help) and recruit guys like Maurice Clarette. Nobody is saying play 11 games against cupcakes but 2 or 3 wouldn't hurt.

Post-Mortem: If I ever had a Hall of Fame vote in Baseball it would not be cast for Barry Bonds. Sorry, some want to defend him by saying that the last three years are the only stain on his career. As we all know by know steroids have been around since before Bonds broke into MLB with the Pirates. Bonds lied and denied over and over and he has zero credibility. There is no reason not to believe that he has juiced his body since he was a rookie. Not one of his statistics is credible. No Hall of Fame.

December 09, 2004

BillsZone’s Postgame Report Card: Bills vs. Dolphins

Quarterbacks Drew Bledsoe had another solid game, playing against a stingy Miami defense and without a major running game. This was his best game of the season and probably his best since the Jacksonville game last year. Even the naysayers have to agree that he played a very good game. Bledsoe was 19/30 for 277 yards, and threw 4 touchdowns with no interceptions. He did a great job avoiding the pass rush for the most part and recovered nicely from a weak start. When the run game couldn’t get moving, Bledsoe kept moving the chains by threading the needle and finding players, even when they were covered nicely by Miami. Drew Bledsoe is fighting for his job and trying to prove that he can still start in the NFL. If he keeps this up, we may see a nice competition for the starting job in training camp next year. Grade: A+

Running Backs: Willis McGahee started out slow in the first half and struggled after he twisted his ankle. However in the second half, he began to wear the defense down and this helped the Bills make some big plays and run the clock down. He was on his way to his 6th 100-yard game, but a few runs for negative yardage at the end of the game stopped that. McGahee had 23 carries for 91 yards and caught 1 pass for 4 yards. But he also fumbled the ball once, after Jason Taylor knocked it out of his hand. Other than the fumble, McGahee did a pretty good job and all the yards he got were tough yards, with hardly any holes for him to run through. When he wasn’t in, Joe Burns was running the ball. Burns had 3 carries for 8 yards. He dropped an easy catch that he should have had, which most likely would have converted a 3rd down. Daimon Shelton did another solid job blocking and continues to prove why he is the diamond in the rough that Donahoe brought in. Shelton also caught 1 pass for 4 yards. Grade: B

Wide Receivers: Lee Evans was the big story here. He had a monster game and was a big reason why Eric Moulds was able to get open in the second half. Evans caught 4 passes for 110 yards and 2 touchdowns. He showed his awesome speed on the 69-yard touchdown when Bledsoe heaved it downfield and Evans grabbed it and turned on his jets to get into the end zone. Eric Moulds was pretty much grabbed and held all day by Miami’s secondary. However, that changed in the second half when Miami put a couple guys on Evans to cover him. Moulds had 5 receptions for 68 yards, including a nifty 30-yard catch and run for a touchdown. Josh Reed came back from his injury and looked solid with a great 8-yard catch on 1st down, but he dropped one pass later in the game. Reed caught 2 passes for 19 yards. Grade: A

Tight Ends: Rookie Tim Euhus continues to impress. He made some great plays and did a good job filling in for Mark Campbell, who was knocked out of the game with a knee injury. Euhus had 4 receptions for 32 yards, and a touchdown. He also went down with a knee injury and came back to play. Ryan Neufeld caught 2 passes for 40 yards, including a nice 29-yarder, which setup a 2nd quarter touchdown. Grade: A

Offensive Line: Injuries and penalties hurt this unit. First, Mike Williams went down and Marcus Price did a good job taking over. Then, Jonas Jennings struggled with his shoulder injury and came out for a few plays. The Bills, who have no depth on the line, had to put Lawrence Smith at left tackle. You knew that was trouble. Bledsoe was sacked on the next play. He was sacked 3 times for the day and only 1 was his fault. He was also hit several times, and pressured to get rid of the ball. However, overall the line didn’t do bad job blocking for Bledsoe and gave him a lot of time to go through his reads and complete the long passes. The run blocking was a different story. McGahee had nowhere to run and most of his runs were by his own power. There were 3 penalties on the offensive line. Trey Teague had 2 penalties, although one of them was declined, and the other was questionable. That one happened to negated a beautiful 66-yard run by Willis McGahee. Jonas Jennings had a false start. Overall, it was an average game for this unit. The loss of Mike Williams hurt the running game a lot. Grade: C+

Defensive Line: The line struggled against a weak Miami offensive line and couldn’t get any pressure on AJ Feeley. They gave him too much time to throw and that’s a big reason why the score was so close. Once they switched from rushing 4, and added blitzes, Feeley struggled and had problems throwing the ball. The defensive line was not a big part of that and the ends were pretty much shut down in the passing game, except when both Aaron Schobel, and Chris Kelsay split a sack on AJ Feeley in the second half. Schobel also a nice tackle for a loss, and recovered a fumble. Sam Adams did a pretty good job plugging the middle and helped stuff Miami’s backs quite a few times. Pat Williams had a great day. He did a nice job with 3 tackles, plus an interception. That interception sealed the game, because Big Pat caught the ball, then, rumbled and stumbled 20 yards into the end zone for the touchdown. The reason he was able to do this was because Jerry Gray had both him and Sam Adams rotating with Tim Anderson and Ron Edwards in the 3rd and 4th quarter, so they could stay fresh. Only problem is that they left holes in the middle and were allowed the Dolphins to run on them a lot. But it worked out in the end, as Big Pat had enough gas to get in the end zone and seal the game. Grade: B-

Linebackers: Takeo Spikes was dominant on Sunday. He was making big plays all over the place and kept roaming the field. Spikes had 3 tackles, but he also had an interception (which he returned for 33 yards), a forced fumble and he batted down a pass. London Fletcher also had a pretty good game with 6 tackles, and pressured Feeley at least once. Jeff Posey had one of his better games and did a great job stopping the run, getting 7 total tackles. It may not have been a big stat game for the linebackers, but they did what they needed to do and were one of the most consistent units on the defense. Grade: B+

Secondary: I’m not sure what to do about this unit. On one hand, they had 3 interceptions and a pretty good 2nd half with coverage. However, on the other hand, they made AJ Feeley look like Dan Marino with his completion percentage and the way he burned them with long plays. Terrence McGee was constantly keyed on in the 1st half, and lost in that round. He came back strong in the second half with solid coverage and an interception in the end zone that was called back, because he couldn’t get his one foot in bounds, and another interception with 1:49 to go in the game, that he ran back 21 yards. Nate Clements also had some negatives and positives. First he was burned a few too many times on some big plays. He also screwed up on a fumble that Spikes forced. Instead of falling on it, Clements saw the open field and tried to run with it, while picking it up. It fell out of bounds instead. On the plus side, Clements intercepted a pass, which resulted in Drew Bledsoe taking the offense down the field to a touchdown and take the lead early in the 1st quarter. Lawyer Milloy was late getting to the receivers in the first half, but stepped up and was a big reason why Feeley got an intentional grounding penalty as Milloy blitzed him. Rashad Baker had an interception and a pass knocked down. But he also was burned a couple times. Overall, it was a wacky day for the Bills secondary with the interceptions, but the killer first half. Hopefully, they can cover the Browns’ mediocre receivers next week better than they covered the Dolphins’ mediocre receivers. Grade: C+

Special Teams: This was another unit that had it’s ups and downs. To start off the game, they were their usual dominant self. Terrence McGee ran the kickoff back 104 yards for a touchdown. McGee struggled the rest of the day, as Miami’s kickoff coverage was solid from then on. The return team also had a quite a few penalties and that made Buffalo’s offense have to start the drives within the 20-yard line almost every time in the 1st half. The punt return team didn’t do anything either. Nate Clements was running backwards at times and had an average of zero yards on 4 tries. The coverage team was not any better. They allowed Wes Welker to get an average of 26.3 yards on 6 returns, with a 34-yarder as his longest. They also gave up a 58-yard return by Jimmy Wyrick on a reverse. Jabari Greer did a great job finally getting to him and stopped Miami from getting the easy touchdown. Rian Lindell missed a chance to tie the game going into halftime, as he was wide left on a 38-yard field goal. Brian Moorman was his usual self, most of the time. He had one 35-yard punt, but he also had a 63-yarder, and 2 punts that were downed within the 5-yard line. Overall, it was a back and forth day on the special teams and it pretty much showed how the game went. Grade: C+

Coaching: Mike Mularkey had a big test by being down 10-points in the 2nd quarter and passed it. The Bills offense needed a spark, so they went to the no-huddle. Boom! They were able to move down the field and get a touchdown. He also did a great job sticking with the game plan, even when it wasn’t working. McGahee wasn’t getting much yardage in the first half, but the Bills kept pounding him down Miami’s throat and eventually he started breaking some nice gains. The defense was terrible in the first half and was getting burned badly by the Dolphins offense as they continued to only rush 3 or 4 at a time. Finally, Jerry Gray realized this and began to blitz and pressure AJ Feeley into making dumb decisions. The result? 5 interceptions and 1 returned for a touchdown. It was a great job, coming back in the second half by Jerry Gray and his defense and nice adjustments. That’s one of the best things about this staff. They are willing to make changes when it’s not working, and willing to stay with other plays when they feel it will work. I love the chemistry that this team is showing and the fact that they were able to come from behind this week. It was exactly what this team needed. 10-6 here we come baby! Grade: A-

McGee proving to be a Game Day performer

They started calling Terrence McGee Game Day long before he made a big splash as one of the NFL's most potent kickoff return threats this season.

Bills Receive Blackout Extension

The Bills have been granted a blackout extension by the NFL until 1:00 PM (ET) on Friday. This week's Bills-Browns game must be sold out by 1:00 PM tomorrow for the game to be broadcast locally.

Bills Playing Like a Top Team in the NFL

We all knew things would eventually click this season for the Buffalo Bills, but this team is playing great football and among one of the hottest teams in the league.

Gray: Becoming a Head Coach is a Goal

I've got to take a lot of the blame for our performance in the first quarter against the Miami Dolphins last weekend. I should have probably attacked them more with blitzes like I saw other teams do on film.

Browns will not Roll Over for Bills

After starting the season 0-4, many left the Bills for dead in the playoff hunt. But Head Coach Mike Mularkey kept saying they had a chance, citing a Steelers team he played on in the late 1980s that started 3-6 and still made the playoffs.

Campbell to IR, Neufeld to start

Tight end Mark Campbell has an injured ACL in his right knee that has caused the Bills to place him on injured reserve.

Cleveland (3-9) At Buffalo (6-6) Capsule

KEY MATCHUP - Browns' front seven vs. Bills RB Willis McGahee. Bills are 6-0 when McGahee gains at least 90 yards this season. Browns allow 139.4 yards rushing per game, fourth worst in league.

Browns name McCown; Clements interview set

Notre Dame officials are expected to conduct an interview Friday with Bills offensive coordinator Tom Clements for the Irish head coaching position.

Baker, Greer beat the odds together

Rashad Baker and Jabari Greer had become football orphans, their college careers over, their hopes of going pro diminished as NFL draft weekend '04 came and went with their services unclaimed.

Injuries taking toll at tight end

The Buffalo Bills' coaches were working overtime Tuesday night, trying to solve their injury problems at the tight end position.

Offense on the rebound

The Bills' offense, which could have been sued for nonsupport so often in the past, is carrying its weight.

Bills' big Pat steps out of the shadows

Pat Williams' 20-yard interception return for a touchdown last Sunday in Miami was cause for comic relief among his Buffalo Bills teammates.

Clements, Irish match up

The first indication that the rumor is true about Notre Dame considering Bills offensive coordinator Tom Clements for its football coaching job is that Clements refused to speak to the media about the situation Wednesday.

Bledsoe's on a Roll

Drew Bledsoe is no longer the struggling, washed-up player many were calling him after Buffalo's 29-to-6 loss to New England on November 14th.

Cleveland (3-9) at Buffalo (6-6) Preview

The Bills, who have won three straight and six of eight, will look to continue their unexpected trek toward a playoff spot when they host the lowly Cleveland Browns.

Bills report: Inside slant

In 2003, the Bills didn't have enough toughness, so they went out and got it, hiring a new coach whose nickname as a player was "Iron Mike" to replace the fired Gregg Williams.

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

The Bills were forced to place TE Mark Campbell, who was tied for the team lead with five touchdown catches, on injured reserve on Wednesday with a torn ACL in his right knee, leaving them thin at the position heading into Sunday's game with the Browns.

Bills report: Notes, quotes

For the second consecutive game the Bills face a team that has seen its head coach resign before the season was finished. First it was Miami, missing Dave Wannstedt. Now the Cleveland Browns (2-10) who are without Butch Davis.

Tight End Campbell Out; Trafford In

Starting tight end Mark Campbell injured his ACL on his right knee and has been placed on Injured Reserve. Head Coach Mike Mularkey said the six-year veteran has not had surgery.

Irish eyes are on Clements

Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Tom Clements, a former Notre Dame quarterback who led the Irish to a 1973 national championship and has the endorsement of Ara Parseghian, will meet with school officials today to discuss the head coaching vacancy there.

December 08, 2004

Campbell Done, Neufeld Starts

Tight ends play a key roll in the Buffalo Bills success, but that unit is all of a sudden paper thin.

Bettis endorses former Steelers assistant Clements as Notre Dame coach

Steelers running back Jerome Bettis remains upset that Notre Dame fired football coach Tyrone Willingham but supports former Steelers assistant coach Tom Clements as his successor.

McCown to start again for Browns

 Rookie Luke McCown will make his second career start for Cleveland on Sunday when the Browns face the Buffalo Bills.

Bills' Campbell out for rest of season

Bills tight end Mark Campbell will miss the rest of the season because of an injured right knee.

Irish eyes turn to Clements

Buffalo Bills offensive coordinator Tom Clements has emerged on a short list of candidates whom Notre Dame has targeted for its head coaching vacancy. Clements could be interviewed sometime this week, sources told The Buffalo News.

Silence says plenty about Price's play

Marcus Price has played seven seasons in the National Football League over 10 years with four teams, appeared in 73 games and made nine starts. He's in his third year with the Buffalo Bills, yet his time on the offensive line has gone largely unnoticed in a career that's best described as nondescript.

Bills Assistant and Notre Dame Plan a Meeting

In its search for a football coach, Notre Dame will be reaching into its storied past.
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Irish set to talk to Clements

Notre Dame received permission from the Buffalo Bills yesterday to speak to offensive coordinator Tom Clements about the Irish football coaching vacancy, a source close to the situation told the Chicago Tribune.

Evans big part of Bills' surge

Lee Evans, a speedy, big-play threat with great hands from Wisconsin, had his best game of the season on Sunday as Buffalo held off the Miami Dolphins, 42-32, for their fifth victory in six games.

Don't Worry Eric, Drew's Got Your Back

It’s not enough that Drew Bledsoe has to run an offense by throwing accurate passes while hopefully avoiding sacks and interceptions. He also has to keep everybody happy, which may be tougher.

McGee collects another AFC special teams honor

The returns are in. And Buffalo Bills second-year kick return specialist Terrence McGee is the AFC Special Teams Player of the Week for a second time this season.

One Fan's View: Off the beaten path

There is some “off the beaten path” type football news to tell you all. First thing, I bailed on the backers bar in New York this week. I went for a half and then had to leave. I haven’t won there all season. So during halftime, I jumped a train and went back to my neighborhood where I grabbed a table (something that cannot be done at the Bills bar because there are so many Bills fans in New York) and watched the game with the sound off (the Jets sound was on with Dierdorf talking. I hate him). The no commentary was slightly annoying, but the table and food rocked. And yes, we won. So I think, I found my halftime adjustment, but it means I can’t watch the games at McFaddens anymore. The sacrifices I make for this team.

Secondly, I normally have bashed the Bills without easing up when they lose. I also have not been particularly nice after the wins. However, after this one, I am going to do something I never do. Mock the other team relentlessly. As much as Drew Bledsoe has frustrated us by his lack of intelligence at key moments, he has never, ever, ever been the crybaby that A.J. Feeley is. Sure he tried to fumble the ball away on a third down with seconds left in half like a rookie, but he’s always been someone that we don’t enjoy hating.

During the second half, the director on CBS had the close up of A.J.’s face after every terrible play he made. His face and mouthing was simply hilarious as a long time Dolphins hater. He is whining and asking, “what happened?” He’s yelling at the receivers. He’s simply out of control. The receivers didn’t even look back to see what he was whining about. They tuned him out like how the Dad in “Everybody Loves Raymond” turns out his wife. It was classic. And the more he whined and pouted, the worse it got. It’s one thing to be terrible, but stop blaming everyone else. Deal with it. A.J. Feeley is the epitome of what’s wrong with the world. People do stupid stuff on their own and then look to blame everyone else. So let this be a lesson: Don’t be Feeley.

For all of Drew’s fault, he’s always been man enough to deal with it on the field. Well, with the exception of when he botches the clock management.

We do need to talk about how the Bills are putting up amazing numbers. Three straight games with 31+ points makes it hard to remember that there was a season and a quarter where we knew scoring 1 TD a game would be the most we could hope for. How the times have changed.

What hasn’t though is the lack of killer instinct. For a good chunk of the game, the September Bills were playing. I was getting concerned. I even thought back to my comment that we’d have to pay in Karma for our trick play on 4th and 1 up by 28. When it was 24-14, I honestly thought that was our payback. I guess not.

Kevin's DVD Extras:

• So I’m treating this like a no-hitter in baseball. I’m not going to talk about you know what possibilities because then we hex it. But keep your fingers crossed.
• A.J. Feeley decides to try and hogtie TKO on one of his INTs; we was hailed a hero. But when Pat Williams got his interception, he pretty much let the big guy get in without touching him. More reason to find A.J. Feeley useless. Spineless.
• Why is it so funny to see a fat ball run 20 yards? It was Sam Adams in the one good New England game in the last 4 years all over again.
• Again the proof is in the pudding that Mularkey is reading my articles. Last week I mentioned it and asked for a job as celebration Coach. Now, I didn’t get an invite to try out with the team, but there were some nice celebrations. Please note that the TKO standard big play dance looked nice after his interception, but the real winner, was one of the punts that was downed inside the five. Haggar and I believe F. Smith slow danced a sexy little number with a sway. I found it funny.
• An addendum to that point, I am so happy I haven’t seen the Bills do that jump backwards and bump backs that seems to be gaining popularity around the NFL. It is particularly big with Defenses. I don’t get it, therefore, I don’t like it. I hope we survive the season without succumbing to this bizarre celebration. I am sensing this is like trying to avoid the Flu this season.
• With Mularkey always willing to experiment with people in different rolls, has he thought about having Moorman kick field goals? I don’t know how hard it would be to transition and be the kicker/punter. Can it be done? I hate Fancy I. We need the $1.5MM back.
• As great as the defense can be, we need one, legitimate pass rusher next season. I don’t care how you get him, get him. In the first half, you couldn’t tell that Feeley had 80% of his body bruised and banged up. He was throwing at will.
• Josh Reed doesn’t do so bad as a number 3 receiver. Catching the ball still seems to be problematic for him. Not a good trait to have. But he is stomachable when thrown to three times a game.
• The entire Bills team looks like a bunch of pee-wee football players. They look like they are enjoying the game, coming together as a team. It’s fun to watch. It was particularly telling when Williams had his TD run. Everyone was laughing and running out to the field. This is what sports is all about.
• Bledsoe faked out Jason Taylor on an 8 yard run. If I wrote that before the game, I would have also said, “yeah and Heidi Klum is going to marry me.” After the run, Heidi Klum walked into the bar, got on one knee, and proposed. So the wedding is set for August. Everyone’s invited; we will be registered at the Bills Proshop and Victoria Secrets. Just let me know if you are having the Beef or Chicken Wings.
• The refs sucked this game. Truly sucked. Bledsoe fumbled that ball before the half. The holding call on Teague on the 65 yard run was mind numbing. If that’s holding, then real holding calls should be Murder 1. Then they just called about everything in the first half. The game had no pace because of it and was like 3 days behind the rest of the 1pm games.
• Who is Terrence McGee, really? Stud kickoff returner, yet every team picks on him as a DB. And they don’t always get away with it. He is not super consistant as a DB yet. He gets burned for like 3 or 4 plays but comes up with interceptions. He’s got a little ways yet before he’s a complete and total player, but I like him.
• Lee Evans, Poundcake as I know him, is having a great season. It’s totally shadowed by Willis, but he’s been consistent. I just hold my breath hoping he doesn’t get the Josh Reed 2nd year disease.
• How phenomenal was the end zone camera angle on the Moulds TD? The passing lane was perfectly opened, Bledsoe throws a nice spiral, Moulds catches it in stride, dekes one guy, breaks another tackle, cuts back, fakes out a guy and splits two guys to get to the end zone. It was the prettiest thing of the game.
• Drew Bledsoe threw 4 TDs on the Road; Peyton Manning threw 3 Tds at home. Also in the news is that Santa will be delivering Kwanzaa and Chanukah gifts this year. The pope will also be christening Osama during Christmas.
• So the Bills have scored 117 points in three games. The Browns have given up 110 points in three games. Outside the 48 points they put up against the Bengals, they have scored 58 points away from Cleveland. The Bills have scored 144. Please, no whammies, no whammies, no whammies……

December 07, 2004

Surging Bills suddenly have playoff hunger

Pat Williams is hungry and so are the Bills, who have gained a sudden appetite for the playoffs.

Bulletin Board

The Buffalo Bills Alumni will present checks totaling more than $50,000 to local charities at a luncheon at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday at the Marriott Hotel, Millersport Highway in Amherst.

Spikes feels a special run in progress

Spikes can smell it now. He can taste it. He can feel it in his bones.

Mularkey focuses on games, not playoffs

Buffalo Bills coach Mike Mularkey could have been asked if it was cold and rainy Monday or whether the price of gasoline was too high, and he would have insisted that now is not the time to start talking about the playoffs.

Boring Bills become a distant memory

Remember when Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson called his team boring?

Can the Bills really make the playoffs?

Leo: Sal, my old pal, how do you like your crow? With salt or barbecue sauce?

At a glance: The Bills

Drew Bledsoe is completing 58 percent of his passes and has thrown for 2288 yards, with 17 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. He threw four touchdowns and no interceptions in Buffalo’s wild, 42-32, win over the Dolphins last week.

Bills creep into playoff contention

Coach Mike Mularkey refuses to do the playoff math, saying it's way too complicated to consider where his Bills might fit into the equation. "I'm maybe not smart enough to go through it," Mularkey said Monday.

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

REPORT CARD VS. DOLPHINS: PASSING OFFENSE A -- Drew Bledsoe continued his resurgence by throwing for 277 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions against the Dolphins' No. 1-ranked passing defense.

Bills report: Inside slant

Cornerback Terrence McGee was hardly the marquee pick in the Bills' 2003 college draft. That status went to first-round running back Willis McGahee and second-round defensive end Chris Kelsay.

Bills report: Notes, quotes

At one point during Sunday's game, the Bills had lost a half-dozen players to various injuries. The most serious were knee injuries to starting RT Mike Williams and starting TE Mark Campbell.

Ask Him Yourself: Mike Mularkey

Roger R. (Hamburg, NY): How do you keep your players focused on one game at a time, rather than scoreboard watching and looking at all the playoff scenarios?
Mularkey: You've got to stress in meetings that we have no control over what happens outside of our environment and the only thing that we can control is our game on Sunday.

Ask Him Yourself: Tom Donahoe

Steve (Rochester, NY): Pat Williams, again, displayed that he is one of the top defensive tackles in the NFL. With Sam Adams and the up and coming Ron Edwards, how difficult is it going to be to keep Williams a Bill?
Donahoe: Pat Williams is again having a very good year in our system and for our defense. Pat Williams is a Buffalo Bill and he makes his home in Buffalo. He has been one of our most active players in the community. Our goal is to keep him here and we believe strongly that this is the best place for Pat and we would like nothing more than to see him finish his career as a Buffalo Bill.

December 06, 2004

RT Williams, TE Campbell among banged-up Bills

The Bills could be without two starters against Cleveland next weekend.

Drew delivers, Bills back in contention

Buffalo's spectacular special teams opened the Bills' third straight win with the longest kickoff return in franchise history.

Bills keeping this season interesting

Dare we start using the ‘P’ word when talking about the Buffalo Bills?

Bills keep playoff hopes alive

The Buffalo Bills might have started slowly — at 0-4, you even might say they started stopped — but for the past two months they’ve played as well as any team in the National Football League.

Game Notes: Bills vs. Dolphins

Terrence McGee: His 104-yard kickoff return for a touchdown to open the game was the longest in Bills history…became the first player (team and opponent) in Bills history to return the opening kickoff for a touchdown, and became only the tenth player in NFL history to return three-plus kickoffs in a season and the first since 2000 (Derrick Vaughn, ATL)

Bledsoe's future?

It's quite a ticklish predicament the Buffalo Bills have created for themselves with a late-season surge in which the team has won six of its last eight games after an 0-4 start. Key to the rally, of course, has been the improved performance of quarterback Drew Bledsoe, who in Sunday's 42-32 victory at Miami, tossed four touchdown passes.

AFC East Recap: Week 13

The Bills just won't give up on their season and still see a glimmer of hope for the postseason.

Grading the Bills

Passing game -- A+
Wow. What a fun game to watch!

Interception bug stings Feeley again

Immediately following his third interception Sunday, exasperated Miami Dolphins quarterback A.J. Feeley turned toward his sideline and asked, "What happened?"

McGee's TD return is one for books

McGee's 104-yard return was the longest in Bills history, topping the 102-yard scores by Charley Warner in 1965 at the Boston Patriots and Curtis Brown in 1978 against the Baltimore Colts.

Interceptions rule on big takeaway day

"Pat looked like a hard-boiled egg running down the sideline," Spikes cracked.

Bledsoe shows Bills how to beat adversity

On the way to bigger things, every team has to go through games like this.

Old-fashioned shootout

The Buffalo Bills quarterback put most of his strong arm into the last pass in the third quarter of Sunday's game and learned an important lesson when it came down: It's mighty hard to overthrow Lee Evans.

Off day by defense didn't hurt

Pretty bad day for the Buffalo defense, wouldn't you say?

Fun in the sun for Bills

With their workhorse ball carrier from the University of Miami bottled up for most of the game against an inspired Dolphins defense out to spoil McGahee's homecoming, the Bills merely shifted gears, producing one big play after another with their passing game, defense and special teams.

Bledsoe's true grit leaving no doubt that this is his team

It was just like old times at Pro Player Stadium on Sunday for a Bills-Dolphins game.

Buffalo Bills: report card

Quarterback: Never mind the four touchdown passes, the season-high 277 passing yards or the QB rating of 132.9, which was his best since Week 2 against Jacksonville in 2003

Turnovers prove fatal for Miami

Terrence McGee opened the game by scoring on a 104-yard kickoff return, the longest in Bills' history, but Miami came from behind twice early and led 24-14 less than 17 minutes into the game.

Secondary becomes a primary problem

Evans gives Buffalo new option

The Bills' offense lately has relied primarily on the running of Willis McGahee. Buffalo came into the game 5-0 when McGahee had run for 100 or more yards

Bills score 21 points off INTs

The Bills beat the Dolphins 42-32 at Pro Player Stadium on Sunday afternoon. Feeley passed for a career-high 303 yards and three touchdowns.

This kind of loss makes you miss Ricky Williams

Short answer: The Dolphins win a couple more games, maybe three, and Sunday's nonstop end zone dance with the Buffalo Bills is definitely one of them.

Education of Feeley is no cakewalk

He's progressing. He's regressing.He's looking lethal. He's looking lost.

Dolphins fall to 2-10 with 42-32 loss to Bills

Of the five interceptions A.J. Feeley threw Sunday and the eight returns the Dolphins have allowed for touchdowns this season, none painted an uglier picture than the sight of a defensive tackle generously listed at 317 pounds rambling for the game-clinching score

Dolphins humiliated

Rookie Lee Evans made the biggest catch for the Buffalo Bills, and defensive tackle Pat Williams came up with a nice grab, too.

December 05, 2004

Keep your eye on those surging Bills

Look, I've buried Drew Bledsoe in this space so often that I routinely feel compelled to visit the gravesite and put flowers at the headstone. But four more touchdowns against Miami? With no interceptions? It's suddenly very chic to be a quarterback named Drew in this league (with the possible exception of young Mr. Henson).

NFL Game Summary - Buffalo at Miami

Drew Bledsoe threw a pair of second-half touchdown passes and Buffalo forced seven Miami turnovers, as the Bills held on for a 42-32 victory over the Dolphins at Pro Player Stadium.

They put the ball and their fate in AJ Feeley's hands

And it failed because the Dolphins lost 42-32 to the Buffalo Bills and Feeley's missed throws told the story more than his completed throws.

Lucky 7's For Bills In 42-32 Win

The tone was set for one of the wildest games in the storied Buffalo vs. Miami rivalry right from the opening kickoff as Terrence McGee took the Dolphins kick back for a Bills record 105 yard touchdown to give Buffalo a 7-0 lead just 13 seconds into the game and the scoring pace only increased from there.

Lucky 7's For Bills In 42-32 Win

The tone was set for one of the wildest games in the storied Buffalo vs. Miami rivalry right from the opening kickoff as Terrence McGee took the Dolphins kick back for a Bills record 105 yard touchdown to give Buffalo a 7-0 lead just 13 seconds into the game and the scoring pace only increased from there.

Post Game Notes

With the win, the Bills swept the season series with the Dolphins for the ninth time. Overall, it was the 27th time in which this season series has resulted in a sweep (18 by Dolphins, 9 by Bills)

Turnovers Play Key Role in Victory

The Bills won their third-straight game for the first time since 2002 to improve to 6-6 on the year.

Bills Postgame Quotes

WR LEE EVANS “On the long touchdown, everyone jumped Eric (Moulds). I got free and Drew (Beledsoe) threw it up there. I went and got it. I had to dig to get it. We executed the play perfectly.”

Dolphin Post Game Quotes

QB A.J. FEELEY (On the interception by the Bills what was run back for a touchdown) – “Just throwing to Travis (Minor) I believe. I don’t know who it was, one of the guys on the d-line came off and got a hand on it, and made a play. I was going through the back because they were softening up. Identical plays during the second quarter.

Game 12: Bills Win Up And Down Game- Game Grades

There were many ups and downs in the 42-32 win over Miami. The offense had some struggles with penalties and sacks but overcame them for four touchdowns. The Defense gave up three first quarter touchdowns but forced six turnovers and scored a touchdown.

Game 12: Bills Win Wild Affair 42-32

This game between the Bills and Dolphins was so wild it was reminiscent of the games from the 90s. Drew Bledsoe did his Jim Kelly imitation throwing for four touchdowns.

Bills 42, Dolphins 32

.J. Feeley was the better quarterback early. Then Drew Bledsoe began to pick apart the Miami Dolphins' defense.

NFL Game Summary - Buffalo At Miami

Miami, FL -- Drew Bledsoe threw a pair of second-half touchdown passes and Buffalo forced seven Miami turnovers, as the Bills held on for a 42-32 victory over the Dolphins at Pro Player Stadium.

Bills hold off self-destructing Dolphins

MIAMI -- A.J. Feeley was the better quarterback early. Then Drew Bledsoe began to pick apart the Miami Dolphins' defense

Bills Can't Afford To Slip Up in Miami

Willis McGahee posted his first 100-yard rushing game against the Miami Dolphins two months ago, and it's no coincidence Buffalo's season immediately began gaining momentum.

Rookie Evans gives the Bills offense a helping hand

Evans reminds me of Andre Reed, who was devastating across the middle because he snatched throws without breaking stride

Bills have the advantage, must make it pay off

RB Willis McGahee will be fired up to play his first NFL game in his hometown.

Condition:Critical

Safeties and cornerbacks must push the limits of physical excess to compete in the NFL.

Bills kindle memories of '60s teams

Now that the Bills have won five of their last seven games after that dismal 0-4 start, is there something in the tea leaves which suggests even better days ahead?

Bills looking to run over Dolphins

Willis McGahee and the Buffalo Bills aim to impose their will today on the Miami Dolphins.

Hard to throw on the ground

The Dolphins have allowed the fourth-highest number of sacks (38) in the NFL this season. The four teams that have allowed the fewest sacks have winning records. The four bottom teams have losing marks:

There’s blame to go around for Dolphins’ ineptitude on offense

Dolphins left tackle Damion McIntosh became defensive when reminded of the adage that the only time offensive linemen receive publicity is when something goes wrong.

NFL Insider: Despite Tom Modrak's sterling reputation, Browns are likely to look elsewhere for GM

With Butch Davis out in Cleveland, Modrak could help fill the void. That would be good news for the Browns and bad news for the Steelers.

Bills hope to keep Dolphins floundering

You’ll wait a long time before a Buffalo Bills’ fan feels sorry for the Miami Dolphins. But the reality is, New England, with its two Super Bowl victories in three years, has become the Bills’ main AFC East rival.

Q&A: Angelo Crowell

Reserve linebacker Angelo Crowell heads the list of most anonymous Bills, leading the team in special teams tackles with 22 while also participating on the kickoff and punt units.

Miami familiar turf for McGahee

Buffalo Bills running back Willis McGahee swears he never circled his calendar for today's game against the Miami Dolphins at Pro Player Stadium.

Paying off big time: Williams living up to early promise

When the Buffalo Bills used the fourth overall pick in the 2002 draft to select mammoth offensive tackle Mike Williams, the expectation was that he would become a dominant player in the NFL.

December 04, 2004

Mularkey does it the hard way

Mularkey's life has taken plenty of twists since Wyche gave him a job with the Buccaneers, but the Buffalo Bills' first-year coach refuses to let go of his early days. 

McGahee making Bills' gamble look good

It is as if people should intuitively understand McGahee's struggle, such as what it is like to have your knee shattered like a piece of porcelain in the Fiesta Bowl almost two years ago.

Feeley Stays Upbeat In Season Of Hard Knocks

The Buffalo Bills will hit Dolphins quarterback A.J. Feeley on Sunday, probably early and often.

Dolphins linebacker Moore showing he belongs

For a year and a half, linebacker Eddie Moore has been the target of indirect hits from those who felt the Dolphins should have used their 2003 second-round draft pick to bolster a sagging offense rather than reinforcing a stalwart defense.

Dolphins' Feeley, Chambers connect

A.J. Feeley has taken his lumps as the starting quarterback for the Dolphins, but his transition from backup has certainly been helped along by receiver Chris Chambers.

McGahee excited about first pro game in Miami

Don't let Willis McGahee's cool act fool you. To hear the Bills running back tell it, this weekend's homecoming trip to Miami - McGahee's first as an NFL player - is just another ho-hum game on the schedule.

Itching Vincent ready to turn the corner

It all started when Willis McGahee and Mike Williams were laughing it up before practice the other day in the Buffalo Bills' locker room; Troy Vincent, listening from the corner while getting dressed, began shaking his head and rolling his eyes like a senior surrounded by freshmen on the first day of school.

Matthews mixes Bills with seeing his family

He hasn't yet, and it's highly unlikely that Shane Matthews will, in the near future, have a chance to affect the outcome of a game from his perch on the Buffalo sideline.

Szabo missing out on rivalry

The memories will last a lifetime, but right now, Buffalo Bills defensive backs coach Steve Szabo doesn't have time to reminisce.

Buffalo's McGahee is off and running

It will be a homecoming few thought Willis McGahee would ever have.

December 03, 2004

Patriots sign Ex-Bills OT Marques Sullivan

The Patriots signed free agent offensive lineman Marques Sullivan on Friday and waived wide receiver Kevin Kasper. He spent his first three NFL seasons in Buffalo, which picked him in the fifth round of the 2001 draft (144th overall) out of Illinois.

Bills can’t let Dolphins kill momentum

Willis McGahee posted his first 100-yard rushing game against the Miami Dolphins two months ago, and it’s no coincidence Buffalo’s season immediately began gaining momentum.

Official Bills vs Dolphins Team Press Releases

After a 38-9 victory at Seattle last week, the Bills look to win their second road game of the season when they travel to Miami to take on the 2-9 Dolphins. The Bills were led by Willis McGahee’s 116 yards rushing and four touchdowns at Seattle and a pummeling defensive effort. Holding the NFL’s leading rusher Shaun Alexander to a season-low 39 yards on 13 carries, the Bills defense set the tone for the game and provided the offense with numerous scoring opportunities on which it capitalized. Miami is coming off their second win of the season at San Francisco where they defeated the 49ers 24-17.
Click here for The Official Buffalo Bills press release.
Click here for The Official Miami Dolphins press release.

Brandt's Rant: Why I hate the Fish

Hi, I am Stephen Brandt, and I hate the Miami Dolphins. No, sorry check that there aren’t words for my level of dislike for that team, Webster’s hasn’t come up with a word yet. When I sat down to plan out my most recent Brandt’s Rant, I wanted to address the reason why I hate the Dolphins and love the Buffalo Bills. I came up with three answers: 1) Football 2) The Climate 3) Their Uniforms. But there’s more than that to the hatred which Bills fans have towards the Phins.

This is one of the fiercest rivalries of all of professional sports. Ever since the Dolphins first got an expansion team in the old AFL, the two teams have had a hatred towards each other that is unmatched in the pros. Well the Sox-Yankees one can rival it.

The Miami Dolphins have to be the dumbest franchise ever assembled. How can you explain having a franchise quarterback and then not surrounding him with enough talent to win the Super Bowl? As much as I hate to say it Dan Marino was a decent quarterback for what he had. Ok, ok all bias’s aside Dan was great. But the team never gave him a top flight or a steady running back. Devin Williams (Kansas Graduate), Bobby Humphrey, and Steven Smith are some of the running backs he had. I am not counting Jim Jensen as a running back, because I hated him. He doesn’t exactly instill fear in the opposition, does he? Added to the fact that their defense was good but it wasn’t what it is today. Smart move genius, at least the Bills gave Jim Kelly a defense, and a great running back.

When did the football god’s decide that playing in warm weather was part of football? I’d like to know so I can smack those people. Football is meant to play outdoors in the cold, kind of like playing in Ralph Wilson Stadium. Just take a look at any great game in NFL history; it’s in the cold, not 80-degree weather. These people decided that Miami needed a team for all those soft skinned players who can’t take the weather. Oh boo frikkin hoo, I played football in Minnesota now that’s football weather. We played in rain, snow, and ten-degree days, nothing like what Miami plays in. No football in tropical climates, the real football is played in the northern states.

The final issue I have with the Dolphins is their colors. Teal and Orange come on they are not football colors. Sorry about that SU Orange Fans, I just don’t like Orange for football. First of all, they don’t even go together, they clash. Once again the Miami Dolphins are very stupid, as if we needed to prove their stupidity again. They should be wearing a variation of the Red, White, and Blue that the Bills wear. Black, blue, green, red, yellow, and white are the only football colors in my mind. They just look like weaklings out there.

For more experienced Buffalo Bills fans, the seventies were not fun in this rivalry since the Dolphins owned us. Well in 1980 the curse (hmmm, not as bad as the Sox curse) was over behind Joe Ferguson (look at the Remember When for that game). Anytime you have one team more dominant than another, deep hatred can only be the result of it from the fans standpoint, and rightfully so. I am too young to remember as I was born in 1979, but the Bills didn’t deserve to be winless for the 70’s against those losers.

Just when you thought that the curse was over it struck again. In 1981 the Bills were led by Joe Ferguson who passed for 3,652 yards putting the Bills on the summit of another Division Title. However they had to face the Dolphins in Miami with 1st Place on the line in the final game. However, the Bills lost that game 16-6 ending the season with a 10-6 record giving them a wild card berth instead of a division title.

The fans have gotten into the rivalry too. The fans of both teams have experienced the hatred first hand at the stadiums. Miami Dolphin fans take their lives into their own hands when they come to Buffalo. Between the fans razing them, and the cold weather it’s not a fun place for them to see their beloved team. There are always skirmishes in the stands and many of the fans have been arrested and tossed out of the stadium. The team has also felt the wrath of the Bills fans on occasion. One time they started throwing snowballs and rocked the bus. Some Dolphin players were actually fearful of their lives, wusses.

Speaking of which, the players have gotten into the act over the years also and many Bills fans won’t forget them. What Bills fan will ever forget the time when Miami linebacker Brian Cox greeting the chorus of boos and saluted us sane fans with a double-barrel middle figure. He even spat at the fans and tried to sue them. Loser.

Well, with all that said I think that this is the most heated rivalry in Pro sports. Each has beaten each other more often than not, and that Bo Sox Yankees rivalry isn't one. It's a butt whopping. My unbiased opinion is that the Bills win 38-10. My completely biased, red white and blue opinion is that the Bills win 69-10.

Bills gearing up for AFC Least battle

There used to be a time when a Buffalo Bills-Miami Dolphins matchup meant something as division titles used to hinge on these meetings.

Gameday Preview - Buffalo at Miami

The Buffalo Bills will try to continue their winning ways this Sunday, when Mike Mularkey's red-hot club travels to Miami to meet the Dolphins.

Bills Better for Gambling on McGahee

It took a year and a half for the Buffalo Bills' selection of tailback Willis McGahee in the first round of the 2003 NFL draft to look brilliant, but that's exactly how it looks now, with McGahee blossoming into one of the most dominant runners in the league as he enters Sunday's game in his home town against the Miami Dolphins.

Bills had better beat dreadful Dolphins

Having delivered easily their best all-around performance of the season last week in Seattle, the Buffalo Bills are again safe to at least think about picking on the road.

Williams Lends a Hand for Habitat

Pat Williams and the Buffalo Bills teamed up with Habitat for Humanity of Buffalo for the sixth-straight year to build homes for families in Western New York.

Bills Need to Stay Consistent Down Stretch

It's a long shot, but the Buffalo Bills have a chance to get into the playoffs after losing their first four games however a lot has to go their way and they need to keep winning, but this is a crazy league and crazier things have happened.

Tops Game Ball Winner: Willis McGahee

After practice on Friday, Willis McGahee was presented with his fourth Tops Game Ball this season and he answered select fan submitted questions at this time.

Put the money where Jonas' mouth is

You never know what'll come out of the mouth of Buffalo Bills left tackle Jonas Jennings. You know what I'm saying?

Injury report /Provided by the league

Sunday Buffalo at Miami, 1:00, Ch. 4 Bills: OUT: RB Travis Henry (ankle). QUEST.: WR Josh Reed (knee); CB Troy Vincent (knee).

Bills know lining up against Taylor will be no easy task

Some people think the Buffalo-Miami rivalry isn't what it used to be. Don't tell that to Bills left tackle Jonas Jennings.

Fantasy number crunching shows Bills rule division

The Buffalo Bills are barely on the radar screen this season, but when it comes to producing quality fantasy football players throughout history, they're right at the top of the heap.

FEEDING THE MONSTER

Before the season began, the Buffalo Bills' defense set its sights on becoming the best in the NFL.

Vincent eager to return to Bills lineup

"I'm optimistic," said Vincent, the Buffalo Bills' 13-year veteran cornerback, when asked if he'll be suiting up against his original NFL team at Pro Player Stadium on Sunday.

Patience paying off for Bills' WR Evans

Receiver Lee Evans learned the value of staying patient a long time ago.

That's what I'm talkin' 'bout, Willis

There won't be a letdown from Bills RB Willis McGahee after his huge four-TD performance last week.

Overconfident Bills?

It had to happen. Eventually. I was wrong predicting a Bills road game. My theory had been flawless. When the Bills were on the road I picked them to lose.

Jennings Returns To His Left Tackle Spot

Jonas Jennings returned to practice for the Bills on Thursday, and was with the first team as practice opened.

Revived Running Game

Willis McGahee gets much of the credit for the Buffalo Bills recent success as the team is 5-2 since he was named starter.

Up My Flagpole

Two questions that have nothing to do with the play on the field:
Just how many cheeseburgers does it take to satisfy Pat Williams and Sam Adams? Forget that, how many cheeseburgers does it take to feed 53 NFL players? I know I can pass three cheeseburgers from McDonald’s down my gullet without guilt. The guess is that the Buffalo Bills players went through 350-400 little discs of meat. A 38-9 victory over Seattle in the opponent’s barn is not a bad return on a $500 investment

One word to describe Sunday’s Buffalo Bills game:
Impressive.



Three thoughts about the game:
MVP: Willis McGahee. At the start of the season, I was the first to defend the use of Travis Henry in order to keep his trade value high. I will admit that the major part of the turn around of Drew Bledsoe has been the insertion of McGahee into the line-up. The kid doesn’t put the rock on the carpet, sees the field very well and let’s his blockers set up their blocks. Who can ask for anything more?

Sunday was proof of something I mentioned last week. It is not about Drew Bledsoe. Mike Mularkey has a responsibility to teach 52 other players (as well as the eight on the practice squad) to learn how to win. That is the best way to make the transition to JP Losman as easy as possible. Losman 2005 = McGahee 2004. Bring him along slowly and let him grow rather than letting him live trial by fire. Wouldn’t it be better to let the kid come into a winning situation and learn rather than face adversity that, in theory, could set his career back? QBs drafted in the first round fail 50% of the time.

Drew Bledsoe appears to want to be the starting QB for the Buffalo Bills next season. Has Bledsoe been great this year? Nope. Has he been better than half of the other QBs in the league? Yup. Should Bledsoe lead this team to a 9-7 season (or better) and he deserves to be brought back next year. Does that mean if he struggles next year he gets to slide? No. The same as the McGahee/Henry situation should apply to Losman/Bledsoe next year. As soon as Bledsoe struggles he should be yanked.

Four Difference Makers:
Genius move of the week: Fourth and one for Buffalo and while Rian Lindell actually makes a field goal from further than 40 yards Coach Mularkey is busy calling a time out? Good move. Inspector Gadget puts the offense back in and Bledsoe fakes a QB sneak and throws a backward pass to McGahee for a 30 yard touchdown.

Genius move of the week II: Leading 17-3 to start off the second half the Bills brain trust orders up an onside kick. If it backfires then Seattle is back in the game and Mularkey looks like a fool. Well, this week Mularkey looks as smart as Bill Belicheck.

A year ago I wrote how Jerry Gray was not qualified to be a defensive coordinator in the NFL. Coaches need time to learn too. The defense, especially in the second half of games, is solid. One weakness of the Levy Years was the inflexibility to adjust at halftime. Not so with Gray who appears to be one of the best at adjusting on the fly.

The turning point of the season was at the very minute that Mike Mularkey showed he was in charge of this team: benching Sam Adams in the home game against Miami. Look it up. Except for the two road games at Baltimore and New England the Buffalo Bills have been solid since that moment.

Five Post-it Notes:
How many Buffalo Bills fans jump off the Peace Bridge if the Bills lose to Miami on Sunday??

To ‘Fins fans everywhere: December 1, 2002.

Ty Willingham was a good coach. He just didn’t beat Southern California and his teams looked putrid not doing it. Equate this rivalry to Michigan-Ohio State and you get the magnitude of three straight 30+ point losses to the Trojans. Losing to “the other” Catholic school on the schedule (Boston College) a couple of times doesn’t help. Can anybody please say, “Hello Urban Meyer”?

The Giants cashed in playoff chips for Eli Manning to get playing time? The goal is winning. For what the G-men have given up for Eli this season, he better be the second coming of Peyton and not Archie.

The thing I would have liked to have been this week: A U2 fan living in New York City. An appearance on Saturday Night Live, an open concert from the back of a truck and the release of their new album! What a week! By the way, catch the new U2 song Miracle Drug.


Six Fleeting thoughts:
1. I’m saying a prayer for the folks in Ukraine. Please figure out a way to settle your election. Civil War would be a terrible thing to your burgeoning country.

2. Think salary cap jail can be overcome overnight? Think again. Look at the Sagarin ratings of the teams who have train wrecked their cap in the last five years. Buffalo is the best at 13. Tennessee (20), Washington (22), Oakland (23), Dallas (24), Tampa Bay (28), Miami (30) and San Francisco (32) are still struggling to get back to resembling proud NFL franchises and probably all of them will for at least one, if not two to three, more years.

3. This just in: Detroit and Chicago still suck and that guy wearing #4 in Green Bay is still pretty good.

4. Still think that Drew Bledsoe will not be starting in the NFL next year? The Bears just signed Jeff “I’ve been out of football for three years” George to be their backup. Look at the dearth of talent at the QB position. Tell me any of the QBs on San Francisco, Dallas, Chicago, Miami, New Orleans or Baltimore are better than Bledsoe. Drew Brees and two rookies are not going to fill all of the QB needs in this league.

5. The only downer about the Buffalo Bills beating the St. Louis Rams and Seattle Seahawks in successive weeks? According to the Sagarin Ratings those two teams have played the 27th and 32nd hardest schedule in the league. Ouch. The NFC West is just plain bad.

6. Just think. Bass Pro might get use out of the old Aud before the Sabres get use out of the HSBC Arena. Note to the politicians: Don’t figure out a way to screw this one up. Better yet, quit now!

December 02, 2004

April: Onside Kick was Executed Perfectly

We had planned to use the onside kick earlier against the Seahawks but we scored with very little time to go in the half so there was no sense kicking the ball onside then because we would have only had time for one offensive play.

Dolphins Still Tough Despite Record

The Buffalo Bills have no intention of going down to South Florida this weekend thinking they've got a win in the bag, though division-rival Miami only has two wins on the season, the Bills are taking them seriously.

Feeley staying upbeat after season of hard knocks

The Buffalo Bills will hit Dolphins quarterback A.J. Feeley on Sunday, probably early and often.

McGahee runs home

When Bills running back Willis McGahee runs out of the tunnel Sunday at Pro Player Stadium don't expect to see his No. 1 fan shed any tears, unless they're the happy variety.

Bills report: Notes, quotes

Sunday's game in Miami will be emotionally charged for RB Willis McGahee, the former University of Miami standout and Miami native, and coach Mike Mularkey, who grew up in Ft. Lauderdale.

Bills report: Inside slant

Thanks to winning five of their last seven games, the Bills (5-6) are at least a part of the playoff picture with five games left, starting with Sunday's game at rival Miami (2-9).

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

With a 17.8 per-catch-average, rookie WR Lee Evans has shown he has great ability to use his speed on the deep throw.

Willis fits the Bills

To hear the Buffalo Bills running back tell it, this weekend's homecoming trip to Miami - McGahee's first as an NFL player - is just another ho-hum game on the schedule.

Buffalo @ Miami: Capsule

KEY MATCHUP - Bills RB Willis McGahee vs. Dolphins LB Derrick Pope, McGahee ran for 111 yards in Week 6 against Miami in first NFL start.

Thomas' absence may aid run game

The Buffalo Bills' chances of staying on a rushing hot streak may get a boost Sunday because of an injury. Miami Dolphins Pro Bowl linebacker Zach Thomas will miss the game because of a sore hamstring.

Face to face with the toughest opponent

We still had challenges ahead, but first I had to come face to face with an opponent tougher than any I had ever met during my 45 years of coaching on the football field.

Williams' improvement key for Bills

"It seems like everybody's got the wrong opinion of Mike," McNally said. "I'm not going to overplay it. But he's doing it. He's getting it done. I think he's got a bad rap."

Shelton serves up 'pancakes' for the Bills

Even though he has produced a season full of crunching blocks, it wasn't difficult for Buffalo Bills fullback Daimon Shelton to single out what he felt was his most impressive bone rattler to date.

Odds defied, McGahee returns

So So how serious was the knee injury former University of Miami running back Willis McGahee suffered in the 2003 Fiesta Bowl? Robert Bronstein, an orthopedic surgeon at Strong Medical Center in Rochester, N.Y., said 30 or 40 years ago, doctors would have considered amputating McGahee's leg.

Bills' Henry might be finished for the season

Runner has an injury to his lower right leg, but Mularkey doesn't provide many additional details

Foes puttin' on the blitz

The Dolphins admit they have problems handling the blitz. The quarterbacks are bleeding, and the offensive front is bleeding sacks at a record pace.

Pope replaces Thomas as 'Fins linebacker

First it was the Dolphins' defensive tackles going down. Now it's their Pro Bowl linebackers, as Zach Thomas, NFL leader in tackles, joined Tim Bowens, Larry Chester and Junior Seau on the sideline.

One Fan's View: I Laughed, I Cried

Well, I predicted a game like that would have to occur sooner or later. All these horrible losses would have to stop, and a floodgate would be opened. That game was pretty close to being the 51-3 Raiders game. I laughed, I cried, I did it all. Much like the Buffalo Bills.

Buffalo had a defense that gave up literally one drive. And even at that, they came up big at the goal line. The Bills had a running back that had the 100+ game including a couple nice long, momentum changing runs. They had some trick plays, an onside kick, a fumble recovery, TE making catches as part of the game plan, and we even watched as Fancy I hit a 48 yard field goal. It would have been a complete and thorough ass-kicking had Bledsoe not thrown 3 INTS.

Yes, yes, I am getting on the guy’s case after a great win. But seriously, don’t be short-term oriented people. Even if we go 10-6, at the cost to the cap, it’s unrealistic to keep him on the team. It would be arguable if he played stellar, Kelly Holcomb style football. Hey! Don’t roll your eyes, I’m kidding around. But seriously 4 TD’s and 2 INT on the road is still better than Drew. But seriously, say, in the next 5 games, Drew has a completion percentage of 80%, a 2 to 1 TD/INT ratio, rediscovers how to manage a clock and miraculously starts to run for 1st downs. Can you keep him with JP making 1st round money? Feel free to argue this any way you want, but if you strengthen the o-line in the off season and keep the Defense in tact, you probably are getting more bang for your buck.

So this brings me to a bigger point. People are saying we’re gelling together. “Everyone’s on the same page, next year looks like it is going to be amazing for the Bills.” But is it? I’m concerned. At 5-6 in the AFC, I believe we need 4 teams to play subpar .500 ball. And we need to run the table. So it breaks down to how you view the world. Are you the optimist and make the run this year because, “well, you never know”. Or do you take a practical approach and say, “We got a great thing to work with for next year. Let’s aim to be SB contenders next year.” If the latter is your approach to things, then JP needs in now.

Personally, I don’t know what school of thought I come from. I say take the cautious route. Do we really want to be last year’s Bengals? Look at how Carson Palmer needed those 6-7 games to get warmed up. All the things that we got over with Drew, whether you see it as a decline in his skills or his ability to adapt to the new system, we will have to go through with a new QB. I’ll leave it up to you to debate. I’m going to try and start a thread under my screen name trapezeus on Thursday. I’d love to hear what you all think.

Kevin’s DVD Extras

• The refs totally blew it again. However, this time it was actually in Buffalo's favor. In the first quarter there were two obvious false starts against the Bills O-line that went uncalled. Lee Evans later in the second drive, blatantly pushed off to make a catch. No call. The nice guy in me hates to see things like that, but you know we go through so much crap with officials whether it be Hockey or Football. I totally enjoyed watching us get away with it. And to be honest, I’d applaud if it happened again.
• Trick play when we were up 31-3? See you later, Karma. It was awesome to watch, and we totally deserved it, but everything evens out at the end. I hate to see how we get repaid for this. Perhaps a Miami let down. Dear god, no!
• What was the deal with Willis running to the back of the end zone and touching the line? I’ve never seen him do that in Buffalo. And he gave the football to a Bills fan. Sure, all players do that in opposing stadiums, but there is no such thing as a fair-weather Bills fan. So to see someone in a Bills jersey, you know they are the real deal. It isn’t like seeing Vick jerseys or brady jerseys. I wonder if we’ll ever see the day where everyone buys Bills Jerseys cause they just won the Superbowl. And if so, do I see it as a cool trend that needed to happen? Or do I look at it like a character from High Fidelity where my favorite small band finally made it big and I hate them for it. I’m always having to tell others, “Well, I was born in Buffalo and still believed after the four superbowl losses.” Hopefully, I’ll get to find out.
• So Mularkey put in JP in the fourth quarter. Is he reading my articles? If so, I’d like to be considered as coach of the celebration. We have too many studs on this team, and we need better TD celebrations. I believe I am the man for this job.
• Darrell Jackson wears number 82. Perhaps the number is just cursed with the inability to catch the ball. Or perhaps Josh Reed snuck into the Seahawks dressing room.
• Mularkey looks a lot like Kevin Costner. I know that’s not just me. Thank god he’s making an effort to make Dancing with Wolves as opposed to the Waterworld he had been showing earlier in the season.

Happy Days Are Here Again ... Sort of

I felt like pulling a Pee Wee Herman and jumping on the bar while dancing to the song “Tequila” a la the scene in Pee Wee’s Great Adventure. And if anything in this world were to justify that wild scene, it certainly would be the Buffalo Bills 38-9 victory in Seattle against the Seahawks on Sunday afternoon. There’s just so much to talk about, and really only dancing like Pee Wee Herman can tell the story sufficiently. Where to start, where to start?

How about Willis McGahee’s four, count ‘em four, touchdowns and fifth 100-yard rushing day of the season? I enjoyed that more than A.J. Feeley’s excruciatingly painful expression after getting a slap on the tush last week. And let me tell you, I enjoyed that!

Or would you like me to talk about the fact that Washington native Drew Bledsoe threw three interceptions, and the Bills were still able to dominate the 6-5 Seahawks?

No, I think I’m going to start with the fact that this 5-2 Bills team since an 0-4 start has finally become a team. It seems that under head coach Mike Mularkey’s tutelage, as one unit, the Bills finally understand what it takes to win in this league.

And they are not only winning, but crushing teams like the Seahawks and Rams from last week. It’s a thing of beauty.

Hold on, I’m getting a little misty-eyed hear. I have that one tear rolling down my eye like the Native American dude back in those old, “Don’t Pollute” commercials.

It’s just too bad about that 0-4 start, or the fact that they aren’t in the abysmal NFC, because this team is playing like a true playoff contender right now.

Defensively, the Bills were dominant on Sunday against one of the league’s more potent offenses. They limited Shaun Alexander, the league-leading rusher, to 39 yards on 13 carries. Seattle was only able to gain 230 total yards of offense on the day compared with Buffalo’s 434. And 72 of their yards came on Seattle’s only touchdown drive late in the fourth quarter with the game already out of hand at 38-3.

38-3. 38-3. 38-3. 38-3. 38-3. 38-3. 38-3. 38-3. 38-3. 38-3. 38-3. 38-3.

I can type that all day long. It was surreal watching the Bills put that score up on the board, it really was.

Especially since it was their first victory on the road this season. As I said before, despite the three interceptions, the offense ran like a well-oiled machine on Sunday. Imagine what it would have been like if Bledsoe wasn’t picked off those three times. They could have been like the Bengals in putting up 50-some odd points on the board!

My condolences, Mr. Biletnikoff.

And not surprisingly, the power, the engine and the fuel running that rejuvenated offense is one Willis McGahee. The man is making GM Tom Donahoe look like a genius for gambling on him with the Bills first round pick in 2003. And as a Bills fan, you have to love the fact that Buffalo is 5-2 with him as starter, as opposed to 0-4 with Travis Henry as the lead back.

Barring a debilitating injury this season, I think we know who is getting traded this offseason. If McGahee keeps this up, Buffalo will never even look back. Sorry Mr. Henry, but this kid is a stud. FOUR TOUCHDOWNS! A-mazing! The best part is, McGahee seems to get better every week, and I am sure that the kid has not even come close to realizing his full potential just yet.

Now, for what everyone wants to talk about, but just can’t spit out. The playoff picture. Do the Bills have a shot at making it to the playoffs? Well, they would basically have to win out, which sadly is the easy part. But with four cupcake teams in Miami, Cleveland, Cincinnati and San Francisco up next and then the season finale at home against a Pittsburgh team that will may be resting its starters at that point, you really never know.

If the Bills continue to play as well as they did this week and last week, we very well could be looking at a 9-7 or 10-6 team come season’s end.

The trick is that a plethora of very talented teams have to start losing consistently immediately. The Bills have all of the division leaders ahead of them, and then Baltimore, the Jets, San Diego/Denver and Jacksonville. Essentially, they would need three of those teams to flame out while the Bills win out.

So, again, are the playoffs a possibility? I’m going to say probably not, but if you are a Bills fan, you will have something to smile about once this season is over. It appears as if things are finally looking up.

But, you just knew, just KNEW, that that season opening loss to Jacksonville would come back to haunt the Bills.

So go the Buffalo Bills.

I’ll talk to you after the squishing of the fish.

This column also appears weekly in the online version of the Erie Times-News at GoErie.com Jim Byrne is also a writer for his website at ZubazPants.com

December 01, 2004

McGahee a big ticket heading home to play Miami

To hear the Bills running back tell it, this weekend's homecoming trip to Miami -- McGahee's first as an NFL player -- is just another ho-hum game on the schedule.

Bills RB Henry out indefinitely with right leg injury

Bills running back Travis Henry could miss the rest of the season because of a lower right leg injury.

Thomas ruled out for Dolphins' game with Buffalo

Linebacker Zach Thomas, the Dolphins' leading tackler, will not play against Buffalo on Sunday because of a hamstring injury.

Mastering the mind game

Last season, Buffalo Bills President and General Manager Tom Donahoe liked what he saw on paper but couldn't dismiss what he watched on the field.

A band of brothers forges The Comeback

We entered our final week of the (1992) season with an 11-4 record, and we needed to win that last game on the road in Houston in order to repeat as the AFC East Division champions for the fifth year in a row.

The DOLPHINS-BILLS Series

The Dolphins own a 48-28-1 lead in the all-time regular season series with the Bills, while Buffalo has captured three of the four playoff matchups that these teams have played.

The BILLS

The Bills are 5-6 on the year after their 38-9 win over the Seahawks in Seattle last Sunday. QB Drew Bledsoe has completed 173 of 301 passes for 2,011 yards with 13 touchdown and 14 interceptions.

This Week's Game

The Dolphins will return home for the first time in nearly a month when they play host to the Buffalo Bills this Sunday

Coach Bates adds energy to Dolphins' sideline

Two games into the Jim Bates Era, the play of the Dolphins has reflected the enthusiasm of their new head coach.

Zack Thomas to miss game vs Bills

The Dolphins will be without linebacker and leading tackler Zach Thomas for the next two games, his agent, Drew Rosenhaus, said. Thomas will be out vs. Buffalo and Denver and might return Dec. 20 at home against defending Super Bowl champion New England.

AFC East Report: Week 12

This week is a homecoming of sorts when the Buffalo Bills come to town. Hometown favorite RB Willis McGahee and the once fiercely heated rival roll in for yet another chapter in their storied history.