‘The Bills-Miami rivalry may be in jeopardy for another reason: The NFL is staring at realignment, an issue that’s been debated for many seasons but remains unresolved. When Houston returns in 2002 as franchise No. 32, it will pave the way for eight four-team divisions across the two conferences. There is some sentiment for placing teams in geographic configurations and, based on the rivalry discussed above, the Bills have resisted that, always favoring an AFC East that keeps the Dolphins, Jets and Patriots on the schedule. The Indianapolis Colts would probably be the team left out (and now that the Colts have vastly improved that really makes sense). The Bills’ voice in the realignment matter should be well heard because owner Ralph Wilson has been appointed by Commissioner Paul Tagliabue as the divisional rep. Tagliabue said the seven-member panel (the AFC Central will have two reps because it currently has six teams) will interview other owners and file a report in January. The realignment issue will be resolved by June 1, 2001.’