December 31, 2006

Buffalo Bills Report Card

D Quarterback: J.P. Losman’s hot second half of the season ended on a sour note with two very damaging interceptions against Baltimore’s gifted secondary to more than offset a pretty 44-yard scoring pass to Lee Evans.

Bills lose season finale in Baltimore, 19-7

Chris McAlister returned an interception 31 yards for a touchdown and the Baltimore Ravens yielded only 39 yards rushing while defeating the Buffalo Bills 19-7 Sunday.

Ravens hope to earn a week off with win

Their motivation isn't to get into the playoffs. That's already a given. The Baltimore Ravens are playing for a week off and an easier route to the Super Bowl, so coach Brian Billick won't need to devise a rousing pregame speech today to get the team fired up to face the Buffalo Bills.

Cashing In His Chips

London Fletcher walked up to greet the media and took a deep breath. He knew there would be a round of questions regarding his future with the Buffalo Bills and he was prepared. But when it comes to being pinned down for a definitive answer, the veteran linebacker proved more elusive than LaDainian Tomlinson.

Losman will need escape routes when Ravens release the hounds

QB J.P. Losman is completing a high percentage of his passes and getting more receivers involved in the offense. But he'll need to make good decisions and get protection against the Ravens' ferocious pass rush. . . . Baltimore attacks from all directions with DE Trevor Pryce (12), LBs Adalius Thomas (11 sacks), Bart Scott (9.5) and Terrell Suggs (8.5) accounting for most of the Ravens' 57 sacks.

Offense faces toughest test in finale

Today's football game at M&T Bank Stadium will be very much like a final exam for the Buffalo Bills' offense. Not just any final exam, either. It will be the football equivalent of a state Regents test. Or maybe the bar exam.

Ravens focus on peaking, not peeking

Despite their players wearing all-black uniforms for the first time this year, the Ravens' season finale won't be a total blackout. Team officials said there are no plans to censor two pivotal games - the ones involving the San Diego Chargers and Indianapolis Colts - on the scoreboards at M&T Bank Stadium today.

Bills take playoff mentality into their last game

The Buffalo Bills won't be participating in the NFL playoffs for a seventh consecutive season. That doesn't mean they can't pretend today's regular-season finale against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium isn't the Super Bowl. Hey, why not practice that scenario against one of the teams favored to be playing in Miami in Super Bowl XLI on Feb. 4?

Bills Q&A: Anthony Hargrove

Because of the way contracts affect the salary cap, there aren't many trades executed in the NFL anymore. Still, Bills defensive lineman Anthony Hargrove wasn't surprised at all to have been part of one earlier this season.

Bills Scouting Report

Think of this as Buffalo's playoff game, because Baltimore is exactly the kind of team — in fact, it may have been the team — the Bills would have played had they qualified for the postseason. And if anyone thinks the Bills have nothing to play for, think again. On the line is a .500 record, and 8-8 is better than 7-9 in anyone's book.

Legendary Bills coach returns to the franchise as the new general manager

The calendars had barely turned to 2006 before the biggest story of the year for the Buffalo Bills emerged. On Jan. 5, owner Ralph Wilson announced that legendary coach Marv Levy would return to the franchise he took to an unprecedented four straight Super Bowls in the early 1990s, this time as the general manager and vice president of football operations.

December 30, 2006

McNair turns the tide

"It's good to know the organization has confidence in me to go out and run this offense," said McNair, the former Tennessee Titans quarterback who will lead the Ravens (12-3) in their regular season finale on Sunday against the Buffalo Bills (7-8). "It's also a plus for me to be a part of this football team because it has a lot of depth, has a lot of talent."

Bills must make big free-agent choices

It is exactly what you would have expected any of them to say. "It's not the time to talk about my contract," said cornerback Nate Clements.

December 29, 2006

Bills FB Shelton placed on injured reserve

Buffalo Bills fullback Daimon Shelton was placed on injured reserve Friday because of lingering effects of a concussion.

Game Day Tipsheet: Week 17

J.P. Losman ranks in the top ten in several NFL passing categories this season after a strong second half. Losman leads the league in touchdown percentage (TD passes per pass attempt) since week nine of the season. He has 12 touchdowns in that time span on 197 attempts, meaning he's throwing for six points a little more than six percent of the time.

Wilson An Example of Perseverance; Roster Promotion

On Friday, Bills head coach Dick Jauron recognized Wilson's hard work all season by promoting him to the 53-man roster Friday for the team's final regular season game in Baltimore. Fullback Daimon Shelton was placed on injured reserve to create room on the squad.

Opponent Preview: Buffalo Bills

The Bills' receivers have some of the surest hands in the league. They dropped only 11 passes through the season's first 14 games. Wideout Lee Evans has 75 catches for 1,147 yards and seven touchdowns. After free-agent dalliances in Atlanta and Dallas, wideout Peerless Price has hauled in 45 catches and three touchdowns, while former LSU standout Josh Reed has 34 receptions and two scores.

Spikes honored as community role model

Buffalo Bills linebacker Takeo Spikes was selected as the team's Ed Block Courage Award winner. The Block award typically is chosen by each team's training staff, and goes to a player who exemplifies a commitment to the principles of sportsmanship and courage. The recipient symbolizes professionalism, great strength, dedication and serves as a community role model for others.

Losman haunted by what-ifs

It has been a hard week for Buffalo Bills quarterback J.P. Losman. The Bills' one-point, playoff-elimination loss to Tennessee on Sunday sticks in his throat, and there seems like nothing he can do to get it out.

Levy revives Bills, but work isn't done yet

Levy's ability to lead with an open hand instead of a closed fist has allowed Jauron and his assistants to flourish. In turn, players such as J.P. Losman and Lee Evans and Aaron Schobel have begun to realize their vast potential because the atmosphere, while demanding, is also positive.

FBN Bills Simpson

Ko Simpson was already motivated when the Buffalo Bills selected him, though he was unhappy he had to wait until Day 2 of the NFL draft.

Bills hoping to end 2006 season on grand note

The Bills are forced to head into Baltimore, a city where they'll take on one of the league's top teams Sunday, the 12-3 Ravens. Though Buffalo doesn't seem to have a good chance to win this game, playing well in it would give the team a legitimate jump-start for next year.

Ravens Can Earn A Rest With Triumph over Bills

The Baltimore Ravens are already division champions, but have more to gain this Sunday when they close out their regular season against the visiting Buffalo Bills.

December 28, 2006

Shelton out for Bills' season finale

Fullback Daimon Shelton will miss the Buffalo Bills' season finale at Baltimore this weekend because of the lingering effects of a concussion.

Fletcher could leave via free agency

Bills LB London Fletcher sounds willing to leave Buffalo as a free agent this season.

Losman Agonizing Over Opportunity Lost

If it were up to J.P. Losman Bills training camp would've started this past Monday. That's how he felt after Buffalo came up a point short against the Titans last Sunday.

Spikes Selected as Ed Block Courage Award Winner

The Buffalo Bills today announced that LB Takeo Spikes was selected as the team’s Ed Block Courage Award winner. The Ed Block Courage Award is presented to the Buffalo Bills player who exemplifies a commitment to the principles of sportsmanship and courage. The recipient symbolizes professionalism, great strength, dedication and serves as a community role model for others.

Lindell opts to stay off the market

The Buffalo Bills prevented one player from reaching the free agent market Wednesday by signing place-kicker Rian Lindell to a new contract. The Bills did not release the terms of the contract, but it is believed to be a five-year deal worth close to $10 million.

McGahee covets new deal

Willis McGahee has been one of the best running backs in the NFL over the past three seasons. Now his agent believes he should be paid accordingly. Drew Rosenhaus said getting McGahee a contract extension will be "a high priority" this offseason.

Bills-Ravens Preview

The Baltimore Ravens look to secure a coveted first-round bye and possibly the top seed for the AFC playoffs when they host the Buffalo Bills on Sunday. The Ravens (12-3) can wrap up the No. 2 seed in the AFC, which means a home playoff game after a first-round bye, by beating the Bills (7-8).

Losman firmly in grasp for Bills

Considering the beating his body has endured this season, Buffalo Bills quarterback J.P. Losman has maintained his sense of humor. The third-year quarterback has been sacked 44 times - the fifth-highest total in the NFL this season - and has been sacked at least three times in 11 games.

Pro Bowl tackle Ogden could be sidelined vs. Bills

Pro Bowl tackle Jonathan Ogden did not practice Wednesday and will almost certainly sit out the Baltimore Ravens' game Sunday against Buffalo with a hyperextended left big toe.

Bills' Moorman nets yet another Pro Bowl season

It's not like Brian Moorman runs to the sideline after every punt to find out how far the ball traveled and how long the return was so he can keep track of his statistics in real time. "I don't have a calculator in my pocket or anything," the Buffalo Bills' Pro Bowl punter said with a smile the other day.

Mailbag: How'd Jauron do? Why watch Bills-Ravens?

When the Bills hired Coach Jauron, all I heard from Bills fans on different Web sites was whining. We're not going to the playoffs this year, again, but wouldn't you agree he did a good job to get this team at 7-8?

December 27, 2006

Bills Big Plays Just Don’t Come vs. Titans; Prep for Finale Blowout

While many might suggest that this last game was much different than any of the Bills past games this season, it simply wasn’t. In fact, this past game if anything was better played than most games this season.

Bills Re-Sign Lindell

The Bills began the very difficult task of re-signing some of their own players scheduled to become unrestricted free agents this offseason as they inked kicker Rian Lindell to a new long term contract Wednesday. With 10 players on Buffalo's roster scheduled to become unrestricted free agents this offseason, Lindell was glad to have his situation addressed so swiftly.

Bills PK Lindell signs 5-year contract extension

Kicker Rian Lindell has agreed to a five-year contract extension with the Buffalo Bills, preventing him from becoming an unrestricted free agent this offseason.

After Ravens, nevermore?

When Chris Kelsay entered this season he knew what he was getting into. He was coming into the final year of his contract, which means there's pressure to perform. His friend, Seattle Seahawks defensive end Grant Wistrom, gave him some advice: Don't let stats dictate how you play.

Bills-Ravens game rescheduled to 4:15

The Buffalo Bills' final regular-season game with the Baltimore Ravens on Sunday at M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore has been moved back to 4:15 p.m., the NFL announced.

Bills reach 5-year extention with veteran PK Lindell

The Buffalo Bills have reached agreement with standout kicker Rian Lindell on a five-year contract extension that will keep the seven-year veteran off the unrestricted free agent market in the spring and allow the club to keep intact one of the league's best kicking tandems.

At odd time, Bills give Lindell hefty contract extension

The Buffalo Bills made an interesting roster move on Tuesday, handing placekicker Rian Lindell a five-year, $11 million contract extension. Had the Bills opted to not give Lindell an extension, he would have hit the unrestricted free-agent market in March, a place where the 28-year-old probably would have been scooped up by another organization.

December 26, 2006

Miami's Loss Eases Buffalo's Pain

There probably haven't been too many times in the 46-year history of the two franchises that a victory by the green shirts from the metropolitan New York area was a good thing for the Buffalo Bills or their fans, but Monday's 13-10 escape against Miami spared their lifelong division rivals an even more agonizing bout of the what-ifs.

Second Down: Week 16

Though there haven't been kick return touchdowns this season, Terrence McGee is still turning in big gainers on kickoff returns this season. Last Sunday McGee broke off a 52-yard return to start the game giving Buffalo's offense great field position. It was McGee's fourth kick return to cover more than 50 yards this season which matches a personal high that McGee set in 2005.

Titans show the right way to develop QB

Sorry, but for all the progress J.P. Losman made this season, it was tough watching Tennessee rookie Vince Young dominate Sunday without thinking about where the Buffalo Bills would be had they properly managed their quarterbacks last year.

Bills-Ravens moved

The NFL announced early today that the Buffalo Bills' season finale at Baltimore will be among three games moved from 1 p.m. to 4:15 p.m. due to the Sunday Night Flex Schedule.

Tennessee blockers, Henry showed their might

The Buffalo Bills knew they had to stop Tennessee running back Travis Henry on Sunday. They blitzed and crowded the line of scrimmage with eight-man fronts often in an attempt to slow down their former teammate. The result: Henry finished with 135 yards to lead a Titans rushing attack that rolled up 215 yards overall in a 30-29 victory.

Future brighter for Bills, but still no playoffs

Obviously, I'm discouraged by what took place Sunday at the Ralph as the Bills did what they have specialized in doing to their fans the last seven years — disappointed them mightily by losing what amounted to a playoff game to the Titans. But for a team that I thought would win five games at most, it is certainly encouraging that we were even talking about playoff scenarios these last couple of weeks.

Bills' defense doesn't deliver

The Bills seemed to be cooking up a chef's delight, and the Titans — with spectacular but often erratic rookie quarterback Vince Young — were going to be a delectable main course at the vast dinner table known as Ralph Wilson Stadium.

Bills report: Inside slant

The same windy weather that helped the Buffalo Bills beat the Miami Dolphins a week earlier at Ralph Wilson Stadium turned into their enemy in Sunday's 30-29 loss to the Tennessee Titans. Mother Nature showed she doesn't discriminate.

Bills report: Notes, quotes

QB J.P. Losman has taken every snap and attempted every pass for the Bills this season with one game to play Sunday at Baltimore. Only two QBs in club history have done that for an entire season: Joe Ferguson in 1977 and Jim Kelly in 1988.

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

QB J.P. Losman threw for 266 yards in Sunday's loss to Tennessee, his most in five games, raising his season total to 2,814. He needs just 186 yards in Sunday's game at Baltimore to post his first 3,000-yard campaign.

Two missed opportunities in red zone cripple Bills

The Buffalo Bills managed to accumulate 29 points in their one-point loss to the Tennessee Titans on Christmas Eve, but that total most certainly could have been higher. In fact, when thinking of the Bills' inability to regularly finish inside their opponent's red zone, a pair of missed opportunities come to the fore.

December 25, 2006

With season on the line, defense comes up small

With a game and a season hanging in the balance, the defense came up small in the fourth quarter. The Bills' defenders would make horrible Santa Clauses because when it really matters, you can't count on them to make a stop.

Young turns critics into believers

Young helped the Titans win their fifth straight game by seven points or less, this time a 30-29 victory over the Buffalo Bills. It would have been ludicrous after the Titans lost their first five games to suggest they would be in playoff contention going into the final week of the season, but Young has turned everybody into believers.

Caught Short : Grading the Bills

RUNNING GAME (C plus): McGahee solid with 95 yards but longest was 13 yards. Might have run a tad more. Didn't convert early in red zone.

Henry hammers Bills on return 'home'

Tennessee Titans running back Travis Henry missed the team flight to Buffalo on Saturday. Unfortunately for the Bills, he got to the game on time. Returning to the place where his NFL career began, Henry celebrated his homecoming with 135 yards on 25 carries. He also topped 1,000 yards for the third time.

Late field goal would not have been a breeze

Place-kicker Rian Lindell tied a career high with five field goals on Sunday, but the only thing he could think about is the one he didn't get to try. Facing fourth down and 5 at Tennessee's 28-yard line with 57 seconds left, the Bills could have attempted a 45-yard field goal. The problem, though, was kicking into a very stiff wind.

Agony of the feet

A couple of inches here, a couple of yards there, and the Buffalo Bills would be thinking playoffs today. Instead, they were left to lament a handful of plays - plus the breathtaking talent of Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young - that sent them to a thrilling 30-29 defeat Sunday.

Royal's end zone lapse, play calls hurt

A wild Sunday at Ralph Wilson Stadium left the Bills with not only a lump in their throats after a 30-29 loss to the Tennessee Titans officially ended their encouraging playoff run. It also left them with lumps of coal in their stockings after a litany of naughty plays caught up to them. Like Royal's almost touchdown catch.

Henry made his point to Bills

Tennessee running back Travis Henry missed the Titans chartered flight to Buffalo Saturday afternoon and had to fly commercial, arriving in town after 10 p.m. Because Henry somehow avoided the usual airline headaches that always seem to screw up the plans of us regular holiday travelers, he was able to take the field Sunday afternoon at Ralph Wilson Stadium and bludgeon into oblivion the playoff dreams of his former team.

Young powers Titans to victory 12/25

With Vince Young running the show, anything seems possible for the Tennessee Titans, highlighted by a remarkable late-season playoff push. The rookie first-round draft pick threw two touchdown passes and rushed for another, keeping the Titans' playoff hopes alive with a 30-29 win over the Buffalo Bills on Sunday.

Coming up just short

Thanks to Sunday's crazy 30-29 loss to the Tennessee Titans, the bumbling Bills and their beleaguered fans will spend at least part of today's Christmas holiday feeling like balled-up wrapping paper that gets chucked into the garbage.

The two-minute read

Titans RB Travis Henry: He must gave gone to bed Saturday night dreaming of Tom Donahoe and Mike Mularkey telling him his services were no longer needed in 2005. He came back to prove a point, and he proved that Buffalo would have been just as well off keeping him as its No. 1 back and not drafting Willis McGahee.

Young, Henry gash Bills' charlatan defense

Christmas Eve is generally a happy day for most people. For the now 7-8 Buffalo Bills , however, Dec. 24, 2006 will be remembered as an afternoon of missed opportunities. Buffalo, still in the playoff hunt until yesterday, saw Cincinnati and Jacksonville both lose their respective contests, meaning the Bills could have found themselves inching closer toward an improbable playoff berth with a victory over Tennessee.

December 24, 2006

Buffalo Bills report card

Quarterbacks (C+): J.P. Losman was razor sharp during a first-quarter TD drive with completions of 18, 22 and 13 yards. He also showed his poise in lofting a 52-yard Hail Mary completion to Josh Reed to set up a late first-half field goal and his 37-yard TD strike to Lee Evans after consecutive sacks was a pretty play.

Bills playoff hopes over after 30-29 loss to Titans

The Buffalo Bills’ playoff dream is over. Rob Bironas kicked a 30-yard field goal with 2:10 to play as the Tennessee Titans rallied for a 30-29 victory at Ralph Wilson Stadium and ensured that the Bills would not play in the NFL postseason.

Bills, Titans battle to keep slim hopes alive

This afternoon at Ralph Wilson Stadium, where plenty of good seats are still available, the Bills host the Tennessee Titans in a matchup of 7-7 teams who were thought to be irrelevant at the start of the season, and even into early November weren't changing many opinions.

Q&A: Matt Bowen

Had Matt Bowen not suffered a fracture to his lower right leg in the Buffalo Bills preseason opener at Carolina, the rugged seven-year NFL veteran would've challenged for the team's starting strong safety position.

Bills Scouting Report

If anyone at the start of this season thought a Buffalo-Tennessee game on Christmas Eve would mean anything beyond drafting position for 2007, congratulations. But here it is, an honest-to-goodness showdown for the right to keep flickering playoff hopes alive to the bitter end.

December 23, 2006

Henry back where he started

Travis Henry could be bitter at the Buffalo Bills and what transpired in his last two seasons in the organization, and no one could blame him. Henry's career was at a crossroads in 2004 after the Bills elected to build their running game behind Willis McGahee.

Bills blacked out for good reasons

Kicking off with reasons why there will be plenty of empty seats for the Tennessee Titans at Buffalo Bills game Sunday afternoon: Fans aren't buying the far-fetched fact that the Bills and Titans are among the 24 teams still in the hunt for a playoff berth. The team figures to miss the playoffs for the seventh straight season, the longest futility streak in the AFC. The frustration is reflected at the gate.

Bills are resembling 1987 upstarts

"There are similarities," Levy said in comparing the way 1987 was a transition year from bad to good for the Bills, and how we may someday look back on 2006 as the same kind of season if the Bills continue to move forward as they have these last couple of months.

McGahee marches on

Seemingly no part of McGahee’s body has been spared. A case of cracked ribs kept him out for two games, but he fought back and managed to play through other injuries. Those have included a sprained ankle, flu-like symptoms that had him throwing up on the sidelines against the New York Jets in Week 15 and most recently a shot to the head Sunday against the Miami Dolphins.

Losman starts to garner national attention

The secret might be starting to get out: J.P. Losman might have actually turned the corner as an NFL quarterback.

December 22, 2006

Wilson sees bleak future for the Bills

Wilson’s frustration is his perception that the gap between the big and small market teams continues to grow. He hoped the problem had been addressed when NFL owners ratified the Collective Bargaining Agreement last spring because they also approved increased revenue-sharing as part of the vote that guaranteed tranquility between players and management until 2012.

Titans, Bills, Seek to Maintain Momentum

The Tennessee Titans didn''t need rookie quarterback Vince Young to lead them to their fifth straight win last week, because the defense did all the work. The Titans are likely to require more of Young''s services on Sunday, when they put the streak and their slim playoff hopes on the line against the similarly hopeful Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium.

Game Day Tipsheet: Week 16

In the past two games Buffalo's margin of victory has been 19.5 points with wins over the Jets (31-13) and Miami (21-0). The point differential of 39 points is the largest in back-to-back wins for the Bills since their last two victories of the 2004 season over Cincinnati (33-17) and San Francisco (41-7).

Best-case scenario puts Bills a win from playoffs

Bills fans wondering who to root for or against in the NFL's postseason chase should focus on the simplest and best playoff scenario for Buffalo this weekend. It goes like this: The Bills beat Tennessee, Miami beats the Jets, Denver beats Cincinnati and New England beats Jacksonville. If all four of those things happen, then the Bills need only to beat Baltimore in the finale to get a wild-card berth.

Bills' quartet singing sweet music on field

The Buffalo Bills have a Fearsome Foursome going for them the second half of this season. Unlike the original Fearsome Foursome - the defensive line of the Los Angles Rams from the 1960s - the Bills' quartet does not wreak havoc with its size and strength. The Bills' Fearsome Foursome is all about speed and quickness.

Bills TE gives foes the Royal treatment

On the football field, opponents have learned that Royal hits pretty hard while blocking for running back Willis McGahee, who is closing in on his third consecutive 1,000-yard season heading into Sunday's game against the Tennessee Titans at Ralph Wilson Stadium. But Royal has also become a hit in Buffalo's passing attack, which after a slow start has become one of the NFL's most explosive.

Surging Bills to spoil Christmas for Young, Titans

This Sunday, the Buffalo Bills ' ever-improving offense will have the opportunity to go up against one of the NFL's worst defenses, the Tennessee Titans . Both teams enter the contest in Orchard Park, N.Y. with 7-7 records, but one has to think it's Buffalo's game to win.

December 21, 2006

Bills' last home game: Blacked out again

For the fourth home game in a row, the Buffalo Bills will not be shown on local television. At the 1 p.m. deadline today, the Bills announced there were still 18,400 tickets available for Sunday's important Christmas Eve game against the Tennessee Titans.

McGahee and Evans Creating Problems for Opponents

We've seen successful offensive teams in the NFL before. Oftentimes their talent at the skill positions creates big matchup problems for opposing defenses. Buffalo's offense is beginning to show that same potential with Willis McGahee and Lee Evans, and you need only look at the big plays they've provided as evidence.

Economics Right For Bills Sale

An expert on sports economics says the market for an NFL team now is so hot, that it is logical to think that Bills Owner Ralph Wilson's comments about poor revenue sharing agreements, could be the owners way of paving the way for a sale of the team.

Losman may upstage hot rookie

While the nation has been gushing about Young these past few weeks, Losman has quietly been one of the best quarterbacks in the game. Losman is now the ninth-rated QB in the NFL - ahead of Tom Brady, Eli Manning, Michael Vick and Ben Roethlisberger, among others. Losman has completed 63.4 percent of his passes. He has 17 TDs and 10 interceptions, so the ratings aren't exactly meaningless.

Another honor for Moorman

The honors keep rolling in for Bills punter Brian Moorman. A day after being named to his second straight Pro Bowl, Moorman was named AFC special teams player of the week. Moorman put four punts inside the 20-yard line in Sunday's game against Miami.

Young & Impressive

Vince Young figuratively turned college football on its head during his remarkable career at the University of Texas. Now he's doing the same to conventional wisdom in the NFL.

Clutch Factor: Give Losman some credit

After struggling mightily his first two seasons, Losman has finally seemed to get it together for the Buffalo Bills this season. Most surprisingly, he's doing his best work in the bitter cold of November and December -- not bad for someone who went to high school a stone's throw from the Pacific Ocean.

Henry expects wild reunion in Buffalo

"I'll be emotional," Henry told reporters on Wednesday during a conference call. "I got drafted and was excited to be a Buffalo Bill. Unfortunately, I couldn't spend my whole career there. I'll be excited to come back and see the fans and taste the atmosphere again. I tell everybody I know, 'There's nothing like Buffalo Bills fans. They're something special.' I'll be emotional about that, because that's where it all started for me."

Fletcher's Pro Bowl snub baffles Bills

Aaron Schobel was thrilled that he was selected to the Pro Bowl, and Nate Clements admitted he was disappointed that he didn't make it. But both players said the stronger emotion they felt was anger that London Fletcher won't be making the trip to Hawaii.

FBN Bills Clements

The ``Playmaker'' nameplate that Bills cornerback Nate Clements once hung over his locker is back at his home in Cleveland. The way he's shutting down opposing receivers - he held Miami's Chris Chambers without a catch last week - it's perhaps time Clements brought it back. That is, unless Clements has other plans entering an offseason in which he could be among the NFL's most attractive defensive free agents.

Henry focused on clash with Bills

Henry, acquired by the Tennessee Titans from the Buffalo Bills in July 2005 for a third round pick this past April, admits there is a part of him that wants to show his stuff Sunday when he plays in Buffalo for the first time since being dealt to the Titans.

Can Bills keep elite Clements?

The Buffalo Bills ' 5-2 record over the last seven regular-season games has been thanks in no small part to their defense. Nearly everyone on the unit has stepped up in a big way, including pass-rushing specialist Aaron Schobel and middle linebacker London Fletcher-Baker. One could make the argument, however, that neither has the importance of cornerback Nate Clements.

December 20, 2006

Flu bug bites Buffalo Bills' Schobel, Losman

The flu bug is making its way around the Buffalo Bills locker room just in time for Christmas, and the showdown game against the Tennessee Titans Sunday at Ralph Wilson Stadium.

Bills Cork Fins Blowhole

In spite of not being sold out the Bills managed to pack the stadium for few no-shows in what amounted to the most exciting game in a long while. Such energy throughout the game has not been existent since perhaps going back to the early Donadope era. In spite of consistent heavy drizzle the weather was relatively warm, particularly for a December game although the wind was severe with the big flag doing a straight-arm throughout much of the game.

Honors for Moorman Continue

A day after being named to his second straight Pro Bowl, Brian Moorman was handed another familiar honor. The Bills punter was named AFC Special Teams Player of the Week for his effective performance on a blustery Sunday against the Dolphins last weekend.

Schobel gets honor he wanted

Aaron Schobel, usually a man of few words, prefers to let his play speak for him. His performance spoke volumes this season, and the rest of the NFL took notice. The Buffalo Bills' veteran defensive end was named to his first Pro Bowl on Tuesday, as a starter with Miami's Jason Taylor.

Buffalo's Schobel, Moorman headed to Hawaii

The polar-opposite personalities of punter Brian Moorman and defensive end Aaron Schobel were very clearly on display Tuesday afternoon when both players learned they had been voted to participate in the Pro Bowl.

Pro Bowl roster omits two ultra-worthy Bills

The NFL announced its Pro Bowl selections for both the AFC and NFC on Tuesday, and it proved to be a successful afternoon for the 7-7 Buffalo Bills . Two members of their roster were elected to the mid-February festivities in Honolulu, Hawaii, but there undoubtedly could have been more.

December 19, 2006

Moorman and Schobel Pro Bowl Bound

For one Bills player it will be a return engagement, but for another it will be an eagerly anticipated trip of validation. Punter Brian Moorman will be making his second straight trip to the Pro Bowl after leading the league for virtually the entire year in net punting. And defensive end Aaron Schobel will be making his first trip to Honolulu as he's putting together a career season.

In 1 year, Levy has Bills back on track

Maybe, as Levy put it this week, this was a simple example of the cyclical nature of a parity-driven NFL, in which the pendulum has swung the Bills back to respectability. That's a place they've barely had a sniff of since Levy retired as coach following the 1997 season. But it can't be mere coincidence that the winningest coach in Bills history, who led the team to a four consecutive Super Bowl appearances in the 1990s, hasn't had something to do with it.

Bills Implement New Ticket Rule

If you buy tickets on-line within ten days of the game, you have to print them out yourself and cannot pick them up from the Will Call window.

Fairchild Gradually Loosening Reins On Losman

Fairchild gave Losman and the offense a reduced calorie version of the playbook each week in the early going in an effort to promote consistency before complexity. It took time, but by mid-November Losman and the offense were ready to expand and take off.

Levy deserves to take a bow for Bills' play

Last Wednesday, Marv Levy took a few moments to congratulate the Bills on their win over the Jets and their late-season success. Levy poked fun at himself, telling the team he hadn't contributed much to the cause. He hadn't worked on any game plans. He hadn't put in the offense or defense. He hadn't made a single call on the field.

Blackout leads to ticket chaos

Tom and Lisa Sileo of Marietta, Ga., spent an hour and 40 minutes on a flight from Atlanta to Buffalo last week, excited about the prospect of attending the Bills-Dolphins game Sunday. Then they spent two hours, from 12:15 to 2:15 p.m. Sunday, standing in line at the ticket window waiting to pick up their will-call tickets.

Several players filled in blanks

Shutouts aren't easy to get in the NFL. It takes good execution and guys making timely big plays to pull it off. The Buffalo Bills got plenty of both Sunday, and the result was a 21-0 blanking of the Miami Dolphins.

Do The Math: Bills Still Part Of Playoff Picture

Dick Jauron majored in history at Yale, not math. That’s why the Bills coach shook his head, ‘No,’ when asked Monday if he had figured out the convoluted series of mathematical scenarios to determine Buffalo’s best chance of sneaking into the playoffs. ‘‘I knew I could say, ‘No,’ when I heard ‘convoluted mathematical,’’’ Jauron said with a grin. ‘‘I haven’t gone through any of them. I know we’re still alive.’’

Did we see the resurgence of Bills coming?

Sal: No, but you would expect me to say that because I have always had a more negative opinion about this year's team than you. At the start of the season I thought they were a five-win team at best, and as late as the Indy loss, when they were 3-6, I was looking good on that prediction.

Bills reap rewards of putting trust in Losman

Losman, who has solidified his standing as Buffalo's starter heading into 2007, agreed with Jauron that a unit that has hovered near the bottom of the league rankings in yardage all season has bonded into a unit that believes it can score from anywhere on the field.

Red-hot Royal key in Bills' newfound success

Through 14 games this season, Royal has 20 receptions - not much, but a career high for the ex-fifth-round pick from LSU. He's been a big part of the Bills' solid run and pass blocking, too. Buffalo's much-improved group of no-name blockers has opened up holes for running back Willis McGahee and given Losman ample time to make proper decisions in the pocket.

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

J.P. Losman solidified his standing as Buffalo's starting quarterback heading into 2007 with the third three-TD game of his career. This one was especially impressive as it came on a warm but rainy day with challenging 25 mph wind gusts.

Bills report: Notes, quotes

CB Nate Clements easily won his latest battle against Chris Chambers, Miami's top receiver and long-time friend and rival from high school and college. Chambers failed to catch a pass for the first time in 60 games while Clements came up with his ninth career interception against Miami.

Bills report: Inside slant

J.P. Losman had already done enough to secure his standing as Buffalo's starting quarterback for 2007 in the eyes of coach Dick Jauron. But just for good measure, he went out and tossed three touchdown passes against the rival Miami Dolphins on Sunday to lead the Bills to a 21-0 victory at windy and wet Ralph Wilson Stadium.

Royal turns in a princely performance

It might be hard to believe, but Buffalo Bills tight end Robert Royal was almost too open Sunday. After finding a soft spot in Miami’s zone defense, Royal had to wait as J.P. Losman’s pass sailed through the air.

December 18, 2006

Second Down: Week 15

It can be argued that Nate Clements is one of Miami's best receiving threats. His third quarter interception Sunday was the ninth of his career against the Dolphins, the most he has recorded against any opponent.

Bills' Losman among hottest quarterbacks

Buffalo Bills quarterback J.P. Losman has risen to No. 9 in NFL passer ratings at 88.5. Losman, whose three touchdown passes led the Bills (7-7) to a win over the Miami Dolphins 21-0 on Sunday keeping slim playoff hopes alive, has thrown 11 touchdown passes and has had just four interceptions during Buffalo's 5-2 hot streak.

General Lee

Lee Evans has an image problem. His problem is he has no image. Where the divas at his position sing weekly arias to ESPN and choreograph touchdown celebrations with the panache of Bob Fosse, Evans doesn't even have a nickname. Ocho Tres?

Bills Defense Posts Some Zeros

It had been a long time since Buffalo's defense last pitched a shutout. It was the home opener in 2003 against the Patriots (31-0) to be exact. But on Sunday the Bills hung on to preserve a goose egg on Miami's side of the scoreboard when defensive end Ryan Denney swatted away Cleo Lemon's final pass attempt from the Bills one-yard line as time had run out.

Defense climbs steep learning curve to prove its mettle

There was a time in the not-so-distant past when the Buffalo Bills defense was the asphalt, the opposing offense the steam roller. Game planning for the Bills amounted to 10 minutes work on Monday, when a motion to run the ball early and often was made, seconded and passed with unanimity.

Unbelievable turnaround began when team believed

If you would have told me we'd be talking playoffs with two weeks to go, I'd have thought you were crazy. The most ardent fans might not have believed it.

Dolphins' hopes get squished

The Miami Dolphins were somber as they stood in front of their lockers. Barely a handful of players felt like discussing their glaring mistakes. Most didn't want to talk about how the Dolphins were shut out by the Buffalo Bills, 21-0, which eliminated their already faint postseason hopes.

In their element

The best pregame omen for the Buffalo Bills on Sunday was sitting at the top of Ralph Wilson Stadium's upper deck. The flags were whipping toward the tunnel end of the stadium.

McGahee Hangs Tough

Running back Willis McGahee threw up last week against the New York Jets. He almost got knocked out by the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. A helmet-to-helmet collision with Miami middle linebacker Zach Thomas separated McGahee from the ball and, at least temporarily, his senses.

Reed, Royal diversify passing attack

With wide receiver Josh Reed looking like a running back and tight end Robert Royal running deep routes like a wideout, the Buffalo Bills showed there is more to their passing game than J.P. Losman and Lee Evans playing pitch and catch.

Miami's offense gone with wind

It might have been a plausible excuse, those sheets of rain and gusts of wind that raced through Ralph Wilson Stadium on Sunday. Or maybe not.

Dolphins' life is made miserable

''Wow!'' Fletcher said when told about Harrington's career-worst 0.0 passer rating. ``I think it's a testament to everybody on the defense. The credit goes all the way around, to the D-line for getting pressure on him and the secondary taking away his throws and forcing him to go to his checkdowns.''

Losman lifts Bills into postseason contention

The genesis of J.P. Losman's development into a top-flight starting quarterback can be traced to a drastic move the reeling Buffalo Bills made during their bye week in early November.

The two-minute read

Bills defense: In pitching Buffalo's first shutout since the 2003 season opener against New England, the Bills defense had the fish swimming up stream all day. Nate Clements and Keith Ellison had interceptions and the Dolphins had 38 yards passing until backup QB Cleo Lemon completed a meaningless 38-yard pass to Wes Welker in the final two minutes.

Bills have plenty of drive to stay alive

"I'm sure a lot of people around the country wrote us off a long time ago," Bills linebacker London Fletcher said. "They probably thought we were already eliminated from the playoffs. People might look around and say 'Man, Buffalo's still in this thing.'"

Bills stay in playoff race by bludgeoning Dolphins

The Buffalo Bills found a way to destroy an AFC East rival for the second straight week. Following their 31-13 victory over the New York Jets in Week 14, the Bills cruised past the Miami Dolphins Sunday, 21-0.

December 17, 2006

Losman throws three TD passes as Bills blank Dolphins

J.P. Losman completed 13-of-19 passes for 200 yards and three touchdowns, as the Buffalo Bills blanked the Miami Dolphins, 21-0, in an AFC East battle at Ralph Wilson Stadium. Buffalo recorded its first shutout since the opening game of the 2003 season against the New England Patriots.

J.P. Losman has strong outing to help Bills rout Dolphins 21-0

Now that the Buffalo Bills are playing their best, they're left with one lament: Is it too late for the playoffs? "The could'a, would'a, should'a," receiver Lee Evans said, nodding in disappointment. "But you can't really dwell on that."

Buffalo Bills report card

QUARTERBACKS (A) While Miami’s Joey Harrington was caving into the elements on way to a grotesque 0.00 rating, J.P. Losman was calmly showing off his field awareness and arm strength. Two of his season-high tying three TD passes were into the teeth of 25 mph wind gusts with rain as he finished a tidy 13 of 19 for 200 yards without an interception.

Bills Owner Critical of Revenue-Sharing

Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson accused the league of dragging its feet on a revenue-sharing plan, an issue critical to the survival of small-market franchises like his own.

Bills blank rival Dolphins, 21-0

J.P. Losman kept Buffalo’s slim playoff hopes alive and provided further proof why he’s earned the Bills’ starting job beyond this season.

Bills Bash Dolphins

Buffalo quarterback J.P. Losman tossed three touchdown passes in a 21-0 win over the Miami Dolphins on Sunday. Buffalo (7-7) has won five of its last seven, rallying from a 2-5 start to the season.

NFL: NFL Preview - Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills

Both teams have drastically changed since the Bills upset the Dolphins earlier in the season. Although its safe to say that both have gotten better since that time, the Dolphins improvement has been significant and now possess the fundamental assets to give this Bills club a tough time. The Bills offense has been inconsistent and erratic, and highly dependent on the running game, as Losman has yet to prove to run an effective one dimensional offense.

Left-handed COMPLEMENT

When the Buffalo Bills decided to move Jason Peters from right tackle to left tackle seven weeks into the season, they didn't know what to expect. They knew he had the athletic ability to make the switch. They also knew he would commit himself to learning the position.

Bills will tailor offense to slow Dolphins pass rush

1. Miami's Taylor-made defense a test for Losman. Bills QB J.P. Losman is managing the game well and limiting his mistakes. That will have to continue against the Dolphins, who are third in sacks with 43. . . .

Today's winner faces long odds

Long-winded titles for bowl games are the norm these days, so you might call today's Buffalo Bills game the Hoping for a Tiebreaker Miracle Bowl. Or maybe the Cursing Themselves for September Mistakes Bowl. The Bills and the Miami Dolphins meet today at Ralph Wilson Stadium, each trying to keep its slender chances of making the NFL playoffs alive.

December 16, 2006

Miami cuts off its foes from pass

The Buffalo Bills needed only 83 passing yards from J.P. Losman to beat the Miami Dolphins in Week Two. The Bills almost surely will need a lot more than that when they play host to the Dolphins Sunday at Ralph Wilson Stadium. However, a big passing day isn't going to be easy for the Bills to pull off.

Bills' bid to squish fish won't be on TV

Stay-at-home Buffalo Bills fans will be in the dark once again on Sunday. The Bills' game against their arch rival, the Miami Dolphins, did not sell out in time for the local television blackout to be lifted.

Blackout is third straight for Bills

Two hot teams, the prospect of nice weather, a 24-hour extension and a week-long effort by team, television and business leaders to get the game on local television all were elements working in the Buffalo Bills' favor. None of them could keep Sunday's rivalry game against the Miami Dolphins from getting sacked by the NFL's controversial blackout rule.

Evans having breakthrough season

Hardly a week goes by when Miami Dolphins wide receiver Chris Chambers doesn't pick up a phone and call a good buddy. And this season, he and Buffalo's Lee Evans have had a lot to talk about.

Another late-season surge teases Dolphins

For a second consecutive season, Saban's mercurial Dolphins are making a late-season surge after an early-season stumble, an act of resurgence that is gratifying on one hand and frustrating on the other. Finally living up to expectations is likely to leave Miami agonizingly close to missing the playoffs again and further down the draft order. One of the NFL's glamour franchises, Miami, which hasn't been to the playoffs since 2001, specializes in teasing its fans.

December 15, 2006

Game Day Tipsheet: Week 15

Willis McGahee may not enjoy the same success he has against the Jets when facing the Dolphins in terms of total rushing yards, but Buffalo's top back has been effective enough in helping the Bills post victories over Miami. In the four games when McGahee has reached at least 85 yards rushing against the Dolphins, the Bills are 4-0.

Buffalo-Miami Will Not Be Seen On Local TV

Although the NFL had given the Bills an additional 24 hours to sell out Sunday's match-up against the Dolphins, 4,000 tickets remain for sale at One Bills Drive, and will not be on local television.

McNally was part of Marshall's rebirth

Buffalo Bills offensive line coach Jim McNally is looking forward to the upcoming motion picture, "We Are Marshall," a true story about the resurrection of Marshall University's football program after a 1970 plane crash killed most of the team. McNally really doesn't need to watch the film to see what happened because he lived it.

A new Bills stadium doesn't make economic sense

Question: Last summer my family and I drove to Buffalo on personal business. In the process we traveled through Cincinnati. I noticed several modern stadiums along the river there. What is the issue with funding and constructing a new retractable roof facility in Buffalo? The lakefront would be a perfect location. The city could attract college bowl games, the Final Four and if you make it large enough the Super Bowl. If they can select Detroit, why not Buffalo?

Just Asking: Three Questions With Robert Royal

Q: How is the rebuilding process going in your hometown of New Orleans in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina?

Taylor terrorizes Dolphins' foes

"He's the best player we've played against all year," Belichick said following the Dolphins' 21-0 win. "We haven't played against everyone, so I can't speak to if he is the best overall. . . . He makes plays every week. Everyone is looking for him, but he continues to make big plays and cause turnovers."

Chambers leads by example

It seems Buffalo Bills receiver Lee Evans has been following his close friend and Dolphins receiver Chris Chambers for most of their lives.

Chambers makes sure to take care of the Bill

Somebody cover Don Shula's ears. As players filled out their Pro Bowl ballots this week, one of the Dolphins went around to his defensive teammates and pleaded for them to vote ... for a Buffalo Bills player. "Yeah, it's true," Dolphins receiver Chris Chambers said. "It was me.

Bills won't sweat over audio studies

The Bills aren't overly worried about the Dolphins studying Losman's cadence because he doesn't spend that much time calling audibles. In addition, center Melvin Fowler also makes protection calls, meaning much of what comes out of Losman's mouth is jargon just to confuse the defense.

Bills' offense has tall order containing Miami's Taylor

In order for the Bills to earn their fifth win in seven games, they must find a way to penetrate the Dolphins' tremendous defense. Although not often talked about, the 'D' has singlehandedly brought the once-1-5 Dolphins back to relevance.

December 14, 2006

LB Spikes, LT Peters return to Bills practice

Linebacker Takeo Spikes and left tackle Jason Peters returned to practice Thursday, but the two Bills starters are still listed as questionable for Buffalo's game against Miami this weekend.

Losman earns right to remain Bills starter going into next season

J.P. Losman can stop looking over his shoulder. He's won the right to be the Buffalo Bills starting quarterback beyond this year. Citing Losman's improved performance as this season progressed, coach Dick Jauron said Thursday he intends to keep Losman as the team's starter going into next year.

Bills ’06 Draft Class Exceeding Expectations

At the end of NFL draft weekend this past April no one at One Bills Drive, or anywhere else for that matter, could have envisioned how important the contributions of the nine men selected by Buffalo would be just seven months later. For a team on its way back to respectability it's been significant.

Bills Granted Extension

The Buffalo Bills have been granted an extension by the NFL to sell out this Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins. The team now has until 1:00 p.m. on Friday to sell the remaining 5,000 tickets. The Bills requested and were granted the extension.

Ralph Wilson Regarding Passing of Lamar Hunt

“Everyone who follows professional football has lost a great friend in the passing of Lamar Hunt. He was an unparalleled fighter battling a serious disease for 8 ½ years. He was responsible for bringing the game to all parts of the United States. He was respectful and generous to everybody. I have tears in my eyes in expressing my condolences to Norma and his family.”

Bills' Fewell growing with his defense

Bills defensive coordinator Perry Fewell says he puts in about 15 hours a day during the season. Fewell admits he drives his wife nuts in the offseason by fiddling around the house at all hours. She's ready to throw him out after a week. Fewell thrives on work. He once referred to it as a drug, "probably worse than alcohol."

Injured Peters, Spikes sit out practice

This is not a good week for the Buffalo Bills to be less than 100 percent healthy at left tackle. Yet that's the situation they face, as Jason Peters missed practice Wednesday due to a sore knee. Peters is listed as questionable for Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins.

Meet Aaron Schobel.Just in case you didn't know who he was - he's the guy who just crushed your quarterback

Whatever you do, don't call Aaron Schobel a high-effort guy. Does he go all out? You bet. Is he relentless? Absolutely. Does he get some sacks because he doesn't give up on a play? No doubt. Should that be his trademark?

Peters questionable for Miami game

Jason Peters, whose move to left tackle six games ago stabilized the Buffalo Bills' offensive line, has a bone bruise on his knee and missed practice Wednesday. Peters is listed as questionable for Sunday's showdown against the Miami Dolphins.

No stopping Bills' Schobel, the sack master

Schobel has ascended to the top of the NFL's sack list, joining San Diego's Shawne Merriman for the league lead with 12.5. This is already the highest single-season total of his six-year career (he had 12 sacks last year), and there are still three games to play.

Bills should build stadium closer to Rochester

The NFL Dallas Cowboys revealed specifics on their lavish new $1 billion stadium on Tuesday night, Buffalo Bills owner Ralph Wilson again is warning that the league's small-market teams are doomed under the current system, and the Buffalo News reports that 47-year-old Lancaster Raceway Park is for sale.

Mailbag: Bills' Evans in need of true No. 2 receiver?

I really enjoyed your article about Lee Evans, Mr. Byrne. I also think he has the makings of an elite receiver, and I'm not just saying that as a big University of Wisconsin fan. What's amazing to me is that Evans has been so great even without a true complementary receiver. Do you agree with that? Go Bills and Badgers!!

December 13, 2006

Bills LB Spikes, LT Peters miss practice

Linebacker Takeo Spikes and left tackle Jason Peters missed practice Wednesday as the injury-depleted Buffalo Bills prepare to take on Miami this weekend.

Ralph Wilson’s Zeal Misplaced and Imbalanced

The Bills feisty aged owner Ralph Wilson is on a tear these days. Alas, that tear is focused on keeping the team in Buffalo. That’s good of course, but what would it be like if Wilson had similar zeal for seeing to it that the Bills actually became an NFL power once again?

Big-Play Bills Beat Jets, Prep for Phins

This past week’s game was exciting to watch, perhaps more exciting than any to date. Fans looking for good, solid consistent ball movement in a ball-control type of game en route to paydirt once again didn’t find it here however. Once again, and contrary to the perceptions by many, this win by the Bills was predicated upon a handful of big plays coupled with opposing QB mistakes and poor play eventually feeding right into the Bills’ strengths.

Dolphins-Bills Preview

It has been quite some time since the Miami Dolphins and the Buffalo Bills have made postseason appearances. After defeating the AFC East's top two teams last weekend, however, both have a chance to end their droughts.

Co-Winners Announced for Bills H.S. Coach of the Year

Coach Angelo Sciandra of Cardinal O’Hara High School and William Johnson of McKinley High School will be named the co-winners of the 2006 Buffalo Bills High School Football “Coach of the Year” during the Bills Salute to High School Football halftime ceremony during the Bills / Dolphins game on Sunday, December 17, 2006.

Schobel Earns AFC Defensive Honors

Bills defensive end Aaron Schobel was honored Wednesday as the league's AFC Defensive player of the week for his impressive performance in Buffalo's 31-13 victory over the Jets in Week 14.

Losman treats students to Bills games

J.P. Losman owns a luxury box at Ralph Wilson Stadium, as have most of the Buffalo Bills starting quarterbacks of the past decade. Losman's family, however, sits in the stands, not in the box. Instead, Losman uses the box, which costs about $50,000 a season, to treat schoolchildren to Bills games in a program he started with the Buffalo Public Schools.

Fans not helping in Buffalo's quest to avoid California

Recently, the Bills -- who need all the support they can get -- have, compared to the league's other 31 teams, fallen under hard times in the monetary department. This week, they're on the verge of failing to sell out an unprecedented third consecutive game. Buffalo fans are often considered some of the best in the NFL, but when they fail to purchase the proper amount of tickets for three home games in a row, one has to become skeptical of such a claim.

December 12, 2006

Bills New Addition Takes Unique Route to NFL

It'll be nothing more than a transaction line in a lot of newspapers across the country Wednesday. But Bills practice squad receiver Troy Bergeron is getting very close to becoming a very unique NFL story.

Tough to Deny Schobel Pro Bowl Nod

At a position where sacks are the main measuring stick, Aaron Schobel is overqualified. "He's as good a run down player as he is a pass rusher," said Bills defensive line coach Bill Kollar. "He's not a situational guy, he plays most of the snaps in the game and does as well against the run as he does rushing the passer."

Playoffs a mathematical possibility

A little more than a month ago, the Buffalo Bills were 2-5 and playoff hopes seemed impractical. Sunday's 31-13 victory over the New York Jets has the Bills still mathematically alive in the AFC wild-card hunt.

As owners aid New York, Wilson feels buffaloed

"People in Buffalo should enjoy this team, because they're pushing us out," Wilson said in the locker room after the Bills' victory over the New York Jets on Sunday.

Lots of help on McGahee's 57-yard touchdown

Tackles Jason Peters and Terrance Pennington, guards Mike Gandy and Duke Preston and center Melvin Fowler controlled the line of scrimmage and physically whipped the Jets' front seven. Tight ends Robert Royal and Brad Cieslak and fullback Daimon Shelton also delivered powerful blocks to help McGahee run for 125 yards on 16 carries and a touchdown in the Buffalo Bills' 31-13 win on Sunday.

How good is the Bills' roster right now?

Leo: When you can win a road game missing four starters on defense and two on offense at one point, you'd be inclined to say it's pretty decent. But the Bills are still under .500 with three games to play, and they appeared to catch a very overrated Jets team at the right time Sunday at The Meadowlands.

Youboty finally gets his shot and does well

Buffalo's third-round draft pick out of Ohio State had been inactive for 11 of the first 12 games, and in the only game for which he donned a uniform, he stood on the sidelines all day in Houston and never played. "It was a long wait," the baby-faced 22-year-old said after making his NFL debut during Buffalo's 31-13 victory over the New York Jets at the Meadowlands.

Plenty of tickets remain for Dolphins game

The Buffalo Bills said Monday that 6,800 tickets remain for Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins at Ralph Wilson Stadium, a game that still has playoff implications for both teams despite their identical 6-7 records. The Bills, who have sold out every home game against the Dolphins since 1987, are optimistic about keeping that streak intact.

Young Evans' milestone a symbol of career direction

Ever since his rookie season in 2004, the soft-spoken, explosive Evans has been destined for success. In his first two years in the league, the former University of Wisconsin star was on the receiving end of 96 catches for 1,586 yards and 16 touchdowns.

Bills report: Inside slant

Undersized and undermanned, Buffalo's defense came up big in Sunday's 31-13 victory over the New York Jets, a win that kept the team's slim playoff hopes alive.

Bills report: Notes, quotes

Second-year pro Jim Leonhard is listed as a backup free safety on the depth chart but he started at strong safety against the Jets in place of rookie Donte Whitner, who injured his hamstring late last week in practice, and made six tackles.

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

RB Willis McGahee's 57-yard TD run against the Jets was the longest scoring run by a Bill since Shawn Bryson's 68-yarder against Atlanta on Dec. 23, 2001. McGahee's 14th career 100-yard game moved him into sole possession of third place on Buffalo's all-time list, behind Thurman Thomas (46) and O.J. Simpson (41).

December 11, 2006

Bills making late-season push toward respectability

Defensive end Chris Kelsay isn't the "I-told-you-so" type, so he's not making a big deal of the Buffalo Bills' late-season surge toward respectability. Kelsay always believed -- even when the Bills were limping into their bye with a 2-5 record -- the team had a chance to prove doubters wrong.

Backups do first-rate job for the Bills

So, in a game the Jets expected to win convincingly, Buffalo’s defense was down three starters — four when Spikes went out temporarily —but it didn’t matter.

Bills pile it on the Jets

Going into Sunday, it was the Giants who had become whipping boys for the NYC media and the Jets, under their rookie coach, who had assumed the post-season favorites’ role. But, yesterday afternoon, it was the Giants (7-6) who reaffirmed their playoff worth with a 27-13 at Carolina, while the Jets fell to the same record after being emphatically handled by the Bills, 31-13, at the Meadowlands.

Bills end Meadowlands losing streak

The win ended Buffalo’s four-game losing streak at the Meadowlands. “I love the atmosphere here,” Bills’ coach Dick Jauron said. “Coming in through the crowd and the tailgaters, they love their team and they let you know it. It’s a very competitive atmosphere and a tough one to play in.”

Bills get something from everybody

Buffalo's Sunday-afternoon romp through the Meadowlands provided that rarest of challenges for a writer chronicling the Bills of the 21st century: So many contributed so much, you hardly know where to start.

Bills only 6,800 tickets shy of sellout

The Buffalo Bills said today that about 6,800 tickets remain for Sunday's game against the Miami Dolphins at Ralph Wilson Stadium, a game that still has playoff implications for both teams despite their identical 6-7 records.

Second Down: Week 14

Buffalo's big plays went a long way in carrying the Bills to victory Sunday. The Bills scored three touchdowns on plays of 50-plus yards. It marked the third time in franchise history that a game featured a touchdown run and touchdown pass of 50-plus yards, and the first time since 1965.

Gutsy McGahee Answers the Bell Again

Willis McGahee is now five-for-five in his career starts against the Jets. Five career starts, five career 100-plus yard rushing performances. His 125 yards weren't a career-high, but his 7.8 yards per carry average for the game was a single game best.

This time, McGahee came up magnificent

On Sunday, McGahee played on a sprained left ankle against the Jets. He played hurt, and he played sick, too. And he was magnificent. McGahee rushed 16 times for 125 yards, including a 57-yard touchdown, to spark the Bills to a rousing, 31-13 victory over the Jets.

Jets take step back

There wasn't much more the New York Jets could have asked for as they took to their home field to play the Buffalo Bills on Sunday at Giants Stadium.

Evans eclipses 1,000-yard milestone for season

Wide receiver Lee Evans went over 1,000 yards for the first time in his three-year career Sunday, and he did it in typical big-play fashion.

Bills' reserves on 'D' cut Jets down to size

The Buffalo Bills' defense has had trouble stopping opposing offenses at full strength. So with two starters out for the game and another missing for most of the first half Sunday, the defense figured to be in for another tough afternoon.

Fast Breaks

The Buffalo Bills were overdue for some fireworks, and they burned the New York Jets with three explosive plays Sunday.

Buffalo Bills report card

Quarterback: The first time J.P. Losman played the Jets this season, he passed for 328 yards but also committed three turnovers in a loss. This time, he threw for 157 yards but had no turnovers to go with two touchdowns in a very impressive Bills victory. B+

The 2-minute read

Play of the game Cornerback Nate Clements' 58-yard interception return for a touchdown in the second quarter.

Bills give Jets that upset feeling

If Willis McGahee was sick to his stomach and throwing up on the sidelines Sunday afternoon at the Meadowlands, imagine how the New York Jets must have felt.

Bills turn in finest all-around effort in stomping Jets

The Buffalo Bills entered Sunday having gone four straight seasons without beating the New York Jets on the road. That all changed, though, as stunned fans at the Meadowlands watched their beloved Jets get crushed by the rising Bills, 31-13.

December 10, 2006

Bills do damage to Jets' playoff hopes

Three big plays by the Buffalo Bills put a huge crimp in the New York Jets' playoff plans. Willis McGahee scored on a 57-yard run, Lee Evans had a 77-yard TD catch and Nate Clements returned an interception 58 yards for a score in the Bills' 31-13 victory Sunday.

McGahee Overcomes Illness To Help Buffalo Crush Jets

Willis McGahee overcame an upset stomach to rush for 125 yards and a touchdown as Buffalo stunned the Jets, 31-13, at Giants Stadium. McGahee, a notorious Jet killer, passed the century mark for the fifth straight time against New York (7-6), despite missing a good portion of the first half with the illness.

Big Plays and Takeaways Lift Bills Over Jets

Big plays and capitalizing on turnovers with touchdowns gave the Bills perhaps their most effectively executed win of the season. The Bills got 14 points off takeaways including a defensive touchdown from an injury-riddled unit. In total they had three touchdowns of 50-plus yards en route to a convincing 31-13 victory over the Jets at the Meadowlands. Buffalo (6-7) kept their mathematical playoff hopes alive with the win, pulling to within a game of the second place Jets (7-6).

Playoff hopes vanishing, but much is still at stake

Recently, a number of people have suggested that I rip into Buffalo fans for failing to buy out the last two Bills games and cause the games to be blacked out. I'm sorry, but it's never been my style to tell discerning consumers how to spend their shrinking, hard-earned dollars.

Turning On The Jets

Eric Mangini isn't like the other coach in town. He's 35 but could be mistaken for the polite neighborhood kid stocking shelves at the corner store. He's quiet and unassuming. His demeanor exudes more "ho-hum" than "here we come," yet he's certainly inspired the New York Jets during his first season on the sidelines.

McGahee could be key to victory

The Buffalo Bills' offense aims to continue its modest revival today, and it hopes Willis McGahee can muster his A game against his favorite rival. The Bills' attack has showed progress the past month, but it didn't do much last week against a San Diego defense ranked eighth in the NFL.

December To Remember

"December is the championship month in the NFL, and that's the way we're approaching it," tight end Chris Baker said. "This is the right time of year to be playing well and confident. This is the time of year when seasons are made or broken."

Playoffs are out, but Bills' quest not over

From owner Ralph Wilson down through general manager Marv Levy and coach Dick Jauron to the guy who turns out the lights in the Bills fieldhouse every night, this NFL season was never about the playoffs for Buffalo.

Bills scouting report

The Buffalo Bills return to their all-too-familiar position in the 21st century of playing the spoiler's role in the NFL playoff race. Now that their postseason chances are just about dead, the Bills can do some serious damage to New York's hopes if they can go into the Meadowlands and win this afternoon.

No view beyond Buffalo

Eric Mangini gave rookie Kellen Clemens one of his pop quizzes earlier this week. The question: What are the records of the other teams in the race for the AFC playoffs along with the Jets?

The elusive ones

By now, everybody knows Eric Mangini ran a brutal training camp that caused grumbling in the locker room. What most people don't know is that it actually started last spring, with the so-called "organized team activities" - long days in which Jets coaches pounded the playbook.

December 09, 2006

WNY needs to start work now to keep the Bills

As a 20-year resident of Buffalo, I wonder if the people of Western New York consider the Buffalo Bills a crucial asset for our region. I personally live in the Buffalo area by choice and have enjoyed going to games, watching on TV and listening on the radio to our Bills in the good times, as well as the not-so-good times.

NFL does flip-flop on times

It was amusing to read the NFL spin after the league sent shivers down the spines of many Buffalo Bills fans by briefly moving the Dec. 17 home game with Miami to 4:05 p.m. before coming to its senses and moving it back to 1 p.m.

Bills do the least versus East

If the Buffalo Bills fall short of making the postseason for a seventh consecutive season, they can point to their lack of success against AFC East rivals as one of the reasons.

Recovered Reed glad to be back

NFL wide receivers generally don't welcome being hit and feeling their teeth rattle. In this instance, however, Josh Reed was more than fine with it.

Jets’ Backups Tackle Role as Character Actors

Clemens and Ramsey have spent this week impersonating Buffalo Bills quarterback J. P. Losman, who has thrown for 12 touchdowns and 10 interceptions this season. His 2,191 passing yards rank 19th in the league.

Dealing With Los

J.P. Losman passed for 328 yards on Sept. 24, when the Jets beat the Bills, 28-20, in Orchard Park. Though the Jets were happy to get the win, they weren't pleased about giving up 150 yards on the ground to Willis McGahee. Still, they had been torched by the running back before. What they didn't expect was to surrender 328 yards to the quarterback, Losman.

December 08, 2006

Bills' Whitner sits out practice

Buffalo Bills starting strong safety Donte Whitner missed his second day of practice because of a hamstring injury and remains questionable against the New York Jets.

Game Day Tipsheet: Week 14

Aaron Schobel vs. D'Brickashaw Ferguson - The Jets young offensive line is steadily improving, but Schobel is on a roll rushing the passer. He's in the midst of his second three-game sack streak this season. With a sack in seven of the last eight games the Pro Bowl hopeful will be a stern test for the rookie left tackle.

Defense aims to get Pennington out of rhythm

The Buffalo Bills want to rattle New York Jets quarterback Chad Pennington on Sunday. They just have to get to him first. That wasn't easy in the teams' first meeting because Pennington's short, quick passes neutralized the Bills' pass rush. Buffalo's goal is to pressure him, which can have the same effect as a sack.

Officiating doesn't tell the story of most NFL games

I recorded the Bills-Chargers game and reviewed many of the plays. Many controversial calls went against the Bills. Yet, your article, and the media in general, are always hesitant to label plays as being blown. I'm not criticizing your article, but rather, asking why that is the case? Are you taught to downplay bad calls for some reason?

A return to greatness

When told during training camp that the Buffalo Bills nearly pulled off the Grand Slam of Special Teams in 2005, linebacker Mario Haggan had this reply: "Well, there's always this year."

Drive to win burns brightly for Spikes

"It's hard, man," Spikes said the other day, talking about how for the first time in his football career he hasn't been an every-down player. "That's something I had been doing all my life.

Vilma and McGahee Talk Smack

Jets linebacker Jonathan Vilma was genuinely amused when he read the chirpy, tongue-in-cheek comments from former University of Miami teammate and current Bills running back Willis McGahee on Wednesday. McGahee, speaking to the Buffalo media, joked about how he "owns" Vilma and he belittled Vilma, saying he makes his "little tackles" and "runs his mouth."

Round Two: Bills must rattle smart, efficient Pennington

When the Buffalo Bills met the New York Jets on Sept. 24, it was their inability stop Chad Pennington that ultimately led to a 28-20 defeat. This Sunday, the two AFC East rivals meet again. Unlike the teams' last showdown, though, this one is in the Jets' New Jersey home, the Meadowlands, not Buffalo's Ralph Wilson Stadium.

Bills’ Fletcher Relishes His Role as an Undersized Iron Man

To not miss a game during a nine-year career — a streak of 140 games — London Fletcher would seem to possess the heartiest of constitutions. But as it turns out, a football game is enough to make Fletcher, the Buffalo Bills’ middle linebacker, nauseous.

December 07, 2006

Bills Play Chargers Close, Hope for Win vs. Overrated but Improved Jets

Once again the Bills played a close game. Yet, they had no rushing game to mention and a passing game that easily ranks below average for any given week. So how do these Bills do it? Big plays of course. It was an exciting game to be sure, but again, are the indications a basis for hope moving forward? As well, whatever excitement was provided was two big plays shy of a blowout.

Moorman AFC Special Teams Player of the Month

Well it looks like when you have a chance to make NFL history you get noticed. Brian Moorman who is on pace to become the first punter in league history with a net average of 40 yards was named AFC Special Teams Player of the Month for November on Wednesday.

Communication Key Facing Jets Attack

The New York Jets put on an impressive offensive display last week in Green Bay. Their first five possessions against the Packers all put points on the board and covered 63, 51, 83, 70 and 77 yards. By halftime the Green Bay faithful were booing the home team which was down 31-0 at the break.

Bills vs. Miami back to 1 p.m

The NFL announced that the Dec. 17 Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills game will return to its original 1 p.m. kickoff time. The league had moved the game to 4:05 p.m. earlier this week.

Fletcher defends man of year honor

Linebacker London Fletcher has been named the Buffalo Bills Walter Payton Man of the Year for the second consecutive year.

Low impact class

The Buffalo Bills jumped into the shallow end of the free-agent pool with both feet last spring. They made a splash but not a real big one. That's the way their offseason free-agent shopping spree is looking with one month remaining in the 2006 season.

Crowell injury gives Bills a problem

Angelo Crowell's season-ending leg injury has created a situation of musical chairs at weak outside linebacker for the Buffalo Bills.

Bills need McGahee to bring his game up a notch

You don't have to tell Marv Levy what it takes to win in the National Football League. That's why there was no look of amazement on Levy's face Sunday as he watched the San Diego Chargers defeat the Buffalo team he is in charge of rebuilding piece by piece.

McGahee aims to run more than mouth

Bills running back Willis McGahee did not practice yesterday and had a protective boot on his sore left ankle, but he expects to play on Sunday.

Willis Power

All right, so Willis McGahee owns the Jets. If you're looking for someone to blame for the dominance of the Bills running back against the Jets, place it squarely on the shoulders of linebacker Jonathan Vilma.

Dolphins-Bills game time changed

The NFL's new "Flex" schedule has been "Un-Flexed." The league announced late Wednesday evening that kickoff for the Miami Dolphins' game at the Buffalo Bills on Dec. 17 has been changed again -- this time switched back to its original 1 p.m. EST start.

Mailbag: If McGahee doesn't play, can Buffalo win?

I've been looking around for Bills news, and I noticed Willis McGahee's questionable for this weekend's game with a bad ankle. Do the Bills have any chance to beat the Jets without him?

December 06, 2006

Bills-Jets Preview

Playing some of their best football of the season, the New York Jets continue their push for a playoff berth Sunday when they host the Buffalo Bills in a matchup between AFC East teams.

Bills' McGahee, McGee may be out Sunday

Bills coach Dick Jauron said this afternoon that running back Willis McGahee and cornerback/kick returner Terrence McGee both missed practice and are listed as questionable for Sunday’s game against the New York Jets.

McGahee Has New Injury; Trash Talk Underway

Still recovering from three broken ribs Willis McGahee was a non-participant in practice Wednesday. Only the reason he sat out practice had nothing to do with his ribs. When McGahee emerged from the training room to speak with the media he hobbled to the microphone wearing an immobilizer boot on his left ankle. But Buffalo's top back downplayed the presence of the device.

Fletcher-Baker Named Man of the Year

Buffalo Bills linebacker London Fletcher-Baker has been named the 2006 Buffalo Bills Walter Payton Man of the Year as voted on by selected members of the Western New York community. This is the second consecutive year that Fletcher-Baker has won the award.

Utility man gets the call

Coaches always tell players that the more they can do the better their chances are of making the team. Coy Wire took that to heart a long time ago. The Buffalo Bills drafted Wire as a strong safety, but last month they approached him about returning to linebacker. He was happy to oblige.

Bills' Crowell-less LB corps no longer a strength

Sans Crowell, Buffalo's starting weakside linebacker, the Bills' defense is in a substantial amount of trouble. The 25-year-old burst onto the scene last season as a viable starter and carried that role further this year, making 82 total tackles, two sacks and two interceptions in 12 games. In his stead, Bills head coach Dick Jauron and defensive coordinator Perry Fewell shifted reserve safety Coy Wire into the linebacking corps against the Chargers, and he made three tackles.

December 05, 2006

Reality sets in for Bills

While the Buffalo Bills futilely tried to successfully run the ball and keep their win streak intact against San Diego on Sunday, the Chargers were the ones rushing for glory.

Bills Sign Linebacker; Crowell Placed on I.R.

With the Bills thin at linebacker following the season ending injury to Angelo Crowell, the club signed free agent linebacker Roy Manning Tuesday. To make room for Manning on the 53-man roster Crowell was placed on injured reserve.

Hargrove Fast Becoming a Fan Favorite

About two months ago few Bills fans knew a thing about Anthony Hargrove. Almost eight weeks after his arrival in a trade with St. Louis, Buffalo's new defensive lineman is a fan favorite.

Bills caught in NFL's 'flex' schedule

The National Football League announced Tuesday that the Bills home game with the Miami Dolphins on Sunday, Dec. 17 has been moved to a 4:05 p.m. kickoff.

Bills-Dolphins Game Moved to 4:05 PM Start

The National Football League announced this morning that the Bills home game with the Dolphins on Sunday, December 17th has been moved to a 4:05 p.m. kickoff as part of the NFL's new flexible scheduling system.

Chargers' blockers help L.T. look terrific

Is there any doubt that LaDainian Tomlinson is the best running back, if not the best player, in the National Football League? He certainly made the Buffalo Bills believers after running for 178 yards in San Diego's 24-21 victory on Sunday.

Crowell out for season

The Buffalo Bills lost more than a game on Sunday. Coach Dick Jauron announced Monday that starting outside linebacker Angelo Crowell is out for the rest of the season with a fracture in his lower left leg.

Bills report: Strategy and personnel

J.P. Losman, who had led back-to-back victories with stellar comebacks, couldn't quite rally Buffalo this time from a 17-0 hole. His 6-yard TD pass to Peerless Price came with 30 seconds to play in a game in which he completed 21 of 37 passes but for just 184 yards

Bills report: Inside slant

Coach Dick Jauron is normally a mild-mannered man. And even though he never lost his cool with referee Ed Hochuli during Sunday's 24-21 loss to the Chargers at Ralph Wilson Stadium, Jauron was more animated than usual.

Bills report: Notes, quotes

Despite giving up some big plays to San Diego TE Antonio Gates, Bills rookie SS Donte Whitner said he was "just glad I had the opportunity to play against him." Said Whitner: "It's a tough challenge. He's like a wide receiver out there. There are plenty of other tight ends in this league with the same skills he has, but they utilize him more on that team. He's a great player."

Is defense holding the Bills back?

Sal: You know, my old friend, there were a few other ways we could have framed this week's question. "How much is the offense holding this team back?" comes immediately to mind. But let's concentrate on a defensive unit that has allowed an average of 177.4 yards per game on the ground in the last five weeks.

Smith, Phillips a sign of better era for Bills

The Buffalo Bills ' 24-21 defeat at the hands of the San Diego Chargers this past Sunday wasn't just their seventh loss of the aging season. In a lot of ways, it was a refresher course on the past. The 5-7 team hasn't made the playoffs since 1999, when A.J. Smith was its director of pro personnel and Wade Phillips was roaming the sidelines as the head coach.

Crowell out for season with fracture

Coy Wire hadn’t played linebacker since his college days ended at Stanford University five years ago. Now he’ll finish the season for the Buffalo Bills at weakside linebacker, either starting in place of an injured Angelo Crowell or backing up Keith Ellison.

December 04, 2006

Wire’s Debut at Linebacker Could Have An Encore

Coy Wire is a man of introspection. He's one of those players who is well read and respects the ancient philosophers of the Far East. At the same time he's hip enough to know his new duties at linebacker may require the services of a TV reality show.

Crowell Likely Out for the Season

Buffalo's defense took a difficult blow Monday when head coach Dick Jauron revealed that weak side linebacker Angelo Crowell is out indefinitely.

With winter at hand, Tomlinson warms to the task

By the time LaDainian Tomlinson finished meeting the media Sunday afternoon, by the time he departed The Ralph having come closer to reaching beyond the unreachable, winter as we know it finally descended upon Orchard Park. Snow blanketed the playing field. The footing was impossible. And as he made his way to the bus, Tomlinson was surely bemoaning his misfortune and wishing this had been a 4 o'clock start.

Chargers show why they're AFC's best

There's no sense in beating them up. The Bills have won three of their last five. The losses were by one and three points to the Colts and Chargers, who are tied with the Bears for the best record in the NFL. The Bills are 5-7, which is all any sensible person could have asked for three-quarters of the way into the season.

Slow start dooms defense

If only the Buffalo Bills' defense could start the way it finishes. The Bills have shown a knack for putting a muzzle on opposing rushing attacks in the second half of games. The problem is they are getting gashed in the first half.

Merriman doesn't miss a beat

Shawne Merriman takes four weeks off from his job and instead of displaying rust, he returns as the disruptive linebacker who makes plays with a merciless purpose. There was no stopping Merriman, not even chants of "Steroids! Steroids!" from the Ralph Wilson Stadium crowd.