Niagara Gazette

‘The Bills opened the veteran safety’s 21-day window to be activated off injured reserve, and although coach Sean McDermott said Hyde wouldn’t play against the Dolphins in the AFC Wild Card round on Sunday, the door is now ajar for a potential return should Buffalo advance.’

‘“We’re obviously grateful that he’s home with his parents and his brother,” Bills coach Sean McDermott told reporters Wednesday. “I’m sure it’s felt like a long time since he’s been able to be home. I’m sure it’s a great feeling.”’

‘The Bills received their moments of relief when Hamlin awoke and began to communicate, and then were galvanized by his pregame talk. An entire region hinging upon the health of one player many have never personally met — and likely will never meet — like a beloved family member is why a game so driven by greed and selfishness can sometimes still seem so pure.’

‘Before each game, a mandatory “60 minutes meeting” is held with team doctors, trainers, EMTs and head referees. Discussion includes medical responsibilities, procedures, equipment and ambulance location in the stadium.’

‘Sportsmanship. Humanity. On full display for millions to see.’

‘“When I got over there, the first thing (McDermott) said was, ‘I need to be at the hospital with Damar and I shouldn’t be coaching this game,’” Taylor told Cincinnati reporters Wednesday. “That, to me, provides all the clarity. … In that moment he really showed who he was that all his focus was on Damar and being there for him, being there for his family, being at the hospital. At that point, everything trended in the direction it needed to trend.”’

‘Hamlin’s family said, “On behalf of our family, we want to express our sincere gratitude for the love and support shown to Damar during this challenging time. We are deeply moved by the prayers, kind words and donations from fans around the country.”’

‘It’s not that I’m callous or don’t think it’s tragic that someone’s lifestyle has been ripped away to begin an unimaginable recovery process. But I have paralysis and I know what life can be like. In those moments I know that quality of life isn’t a concern as much as if that person is willing to accept their new life. Quality doesn’t drop off if someone embraces the new normal, even though recovery is grueling and frustrating.’

‘The NFL, in conjunction with the NFL Players Association, made a decision to postpone the game. The Bills returned to Orchard Park early Tuesday morning and the NFL chose not to offer an update on when or if the game would resume during a conference call.’

‘It’s the force of nature against the precision passer, playing for two rust-belt franchises that endured unbearable heartache, unfathomable losses and often incompetence while awaiting their arrival as the savior.’

‘Buffalo only allowed 163 yards passing per game last season, but the number has bumped up to 213.3 this season. Dane Jackson was solid as the team’s No. 1 cornerback while Tre’Davious White worked his way back into the lineup. But since White’s return, Jackson’s play has dipped and he’s split time the last two weeks with rookie Kaiir Elam, who has also struggled at times this season.’

‘“There’s only one way to play football, and if it’s in the back of your mind, then you’re putting yourself at a disadvantage,” Morse said. “When I signed my extension, my wife and I, we had some frank conversations. We understood that this was something that could pop up again, it did, and we kind of dealt with it.”’

‘The Bills are a reflection of their quarterback. Sometimes they win with beautiful skill, sometimes they win with brute force and sometimes they make mind-bogglingly poor plays.’

‘Sean McDermott has proven he prefers a clock-control offense whenever possible, so it would be hard to imagine the Bills banging their heads against the wall throwing into the wind again, although don’t expect Josh Allen to be limited to three attempts like Mac Jones a year ago.’

‘“I was just tired of being down on myself, tired of trying to be perfect,” Elam said. “I just give it my all and let the work take over. I’m not trying to be perfect anymore. Nothing’s going to be perfect. I just try to give it my all and make sure I’m locked in on what I need to get done.”’