Archives for July 2014

‘The 2013 season wasn’t a step back but a lateral one. With a relatively healthy offseason and a clear pass to hit the ground running at training camp this year, Gilmore has the opportunity once more to develop into the top cornerback the Bills believe he can be. Already boasting the necessary physical nature and hip fluidity needed in cornerbacks, Gilmore has a straight-line personality as well. He never gets too hyped up and he certainly never gets down on himself, leading to a level-headed approach to the game which is a huge advantage for playing such a volatile position. In a defense that will allow its cornerbacks to shine, everything is there for Gilmore to make the jump. It’s just a matter of staying healthy and capitalizing on the positive play from training camp of 2013.’

‘Michael Carter, Darius Robinson – Carter is getting his first chance with the team and the NFL, over a year removed from leaving the University of Minnesota. Robinson, an undrafted free agent, is undersized (5-foot-10, 175-pounds) and missed most of the spring practices due to an injury suffered during one of the early sessions. Both would need very strong camps just to get on the roster bubble.’

‘Two younger players – Jonathan Meeks and Duke Williams – are vying for the spot, with veteran Da’Norris Searcy already taking the upper hand.’

‘He would start the next four games at cornerback before making his last seven starts at safety. The flip-flopping back and forth between positions compromised Williams’ growth at the safety position. Now with newfound depth at cornerback with the free agent addition of Corey Graham and fourth-round draft choice Ross Cockrell and Ron Brooks playing some of his best football this past spring it looks like Williams will be able to stay put at free safety for a full 16-game slate.’

‘Better defending against the run becomes a bigger challenge without Alonso, but Schwartz recognizes it’s an area in which the team must improve. The Bills ranked 28th in the NFL last year against the run, allowing nearly 130 yards per game.’

‘What’s more, QMI Agency has learned that Congel this week plans to announce he has hired a “major” stadium design firm, and he is close to announcing a financial adviser who will guide him through the Bills bid process.’

‘ Will this finally be the year the Bills end their playoff drought? No. As is usually the case when Tom Brady is healthy, the Bills will be fighting for one of two AFC wildcard spots as opposed to a third possible post season avenue via a division title.’

‘Knowing how the ankle and knee injuries suffered by Spiller and Jackson compromised the effectiveness of the offense as a whole, Whaley made some key additions at running back with Bryce Brown and Anthony Dixon. The only question now is how will offensive coordinator Nathaniel Hackett take advantage of the improved running back depth?’

‘Offense requires precision, especially on third down and inside the opponents’ 20-yard line. The Bills ranked 29th in both categories last year. Manuel & Co. need as much practice on those situations as possible in Year Two of coach Doug Marrone’s regime.’

‘”Billionaires don’t go into something without a plan in mind about their operation.”‘

‘So while patience is always advisable with a young quarterback, the clock is ticking on Manuel. There is enormous pressure on EJ to make clear strides this season and justify management’s decision to draft him 16th overall in 2013.’

‘Golisano still wants to bid on the team, the source told The News.’

‘What I’ve been a part of all these years through watching my dad at football camp has taught me much about being a football fan as well. And I’m convinced it’s about more than just the game. Don’t get me wrong, the game is amazing and when football season ends I’m already counting down the days until the NFL Draft and minicamp. But, the older I get, the more I realize and learn that there’s got to be more. For those of us fans who live here in Western New York, it’s an investment in not only our entertainment and joy but in the community that we call home.’

‘Nigel Bradham might get first crack at the weakside spot, but the Bills could also flip Keith Rivers over there and let the battle play out on the strong side. Bradham could be in that mix, along with Ty Powell. Another option is moving rush end Manny Lawson back to linebacker where he played last year. No matter what happens, the Bills aren’t as formidable a defense without the Legend of Kiko.’

‘So you see, the Bills do not have a long history of drafting and developing quarterbacks, so one has to wonder how this is going to turn out for Manuel, who, like Losman, has all the tools to be very good but also, like Losman, has so many variables out of his control.’