It’s Miami week.
After a week 1 debacle, the Bills have righted the ship. Over the last two weeks, they’ve outscored their opponents (WAS + LV) 75-13.
Unfortunately for them, Miami almost matched that total on Sunday against Denver.
Everything was working for the Bills against the Commanders. Rather than our typical ups and downs, I’m breaking down what I think are the biggest keys to a Bills victory on Sunday against the rival Dolphins.
BILLS DEFENSE PRESENTS MIAMI’S BIGGEST CHALLENGE YET
This game will feature the two highest-scoring offenses in the NFL (kind of obvious about Miami huh), but the Bills are also the 2nd ranked defense in the league while Miami ranks 21st.
Miami has yet to be truly tested by a great defense. The Chargers are one of the most disappointing teams in the league.
The Patriots did give the Dolphins some issues and the way they eliminated Hill can be a blueprint for the Bills.
The Broncos allowed 70 points. And before that, they allowed 35 to the Commanders, who could barely muster a field goal against Buffalo.
All that being said, Miami is a juggernaut. They should not be doubted and they will have periods in the game where they move the ball at will. If we can look to past McDermott gameplans against high-flying offenses (Miami, KC, etc.) they will be happy to allow the Dolphins to rack up yards. And as long as their situational defense is sound, specifically in the red area, McD will be happy.
The biggest difference maker is the defensive line. By just about every metric you can find on the interwebs, the Bills d-line is ELITE. And this is without Von Miller.
The Bills have had success against Tua. They’ve had success pressuring him and knocking him down. They need a great defensive gameplan with the idea of getting arms into passing lanes and pushing the pocket into Tua. Ed Oliver, Daquan Jones and Jordan Phillips’ success on the interior will be the biggest difference in a Bills win or loss on Sunday.
JOSH ALLEN, GAME MANAGER
Josh Allen was masterful on Sunday in his new role as game manager.
I know this is disingenuous, but Josh Allen the last two weeks has truly been the ultimate game manager. When he plays smart, within control and selectively takes chances he’s almost unstoppable.
After week 1, Allen has been surgical. He rarely puts the ball into harm’s way (don’t watch the interception from Sunday). He’s playing within the system.
And that’s another thing. Last week was the most cohesive Bills offense I’ve seen in years. They can truly attack you in a multitude of ways, with all sorts of personnel groupings.
In addition, Miami has never been able to contain Josh Allen. He owns the Dolphins. And now the team is more motivated than ever to face their longtime rivals. I expect greatness from 17.
BILLS MAFIA
The best fans in the world will be the biggest difference.
If you’re in the stadium, be grateful and have the time of your life. Go Bills.
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