Olean Times Herald

‘The win lifted the Bills to 9-3, two games behind the Steelers (11-1), whom they host Sunday night. And while Kansas City and Pittsburgh are tied for the American Football Conference’s best record and resurgent Cleveland is tied with Buffalo, it can clearly enhance its playoff position and the quality of its first-round postseason foe over the season’s final quarter.’

‘But, if you’re wondering why the line on tonight’s game is a “pick” it’s because of San Francisco’s defense.’

‘What’s interesting is how the Dolphins are winning. Their offense is pedestrian, ranking in the middle of the league in points scored. But Miami’s defense ranks second in the NFL in fewest points surrendered and its highly proficient special teams have been the key to an unexpected eight victories.’

‘But as the Bills embark on the home stretch of their season, there’s the reality that they’ve had trouble putting teams away.’

‘Still, while there were some reasons for encouragement in Buffalo’s performance, there were also some circumstances creating genuine concern.’

‘The win ended a four-game losing streak against the Chargers, with Buffalo having last beaten them in 2008.’

‘Buffalo is scoring an average of 27 points per game and giving up an equal number while L.A. is scoring at a 26-point rate and also giving up 27.’

‘Herbert is completing 68 percent of his passes with 22 touchdowns, six interceptions and a 104.7 passer rating. He’s been sacked 19 times and has rushed for three scores.’

‘The most common complaint among my emails was Buffalo’s failure to have a tall player or two stationed in the end zone to knock down a Hail Mary pass intended for the 6-foot-1 Hopkins.’

‘None of them was trying for an interception. Hyde and Poyer were both reaching for the ball with one hand, hardly the way one tries to make a pick, while the 5-foot-11 White, in front, was trying to force his hands between those of the 6-1 Hopkins.’

‘This one won’t be easy for Buffalo’s players to forget.’

‘Bass became the first Bill with three 50-yard-plus field goals in a game and the second in NFL history with a trio of at least 54 yards, tying Houston’s Kurt Brown in 2007.’

‘The Cardinals’ Kyler Murray’s projected statistics over 16 games show 5,346 yards (passing and rushing combined) with 48 touchdowns. That ranks second only to Seattle’s Russell Wilson’s projection (5,612, 58).’

‘And while letting some air out of the Seahawks’ balloon, Buffalo’s path over the final seven games brightened considerably.’

‘IF SOMEBODY had told you the Bills would end up in a shootout against the NFL’s highest-scoring team and that Buffalo would have only 19 carries for a mere 34 yards, what would be the conclusion? Guaranteed loss.’