In 2017, the Bills went 9-7 and made the playoffs for the first time in like 15 years. They did it by holding opposing teams at 20-points-or-under in 10 out of 16 contests. The Bills won 8 of these games and only one when the opponent scored more than 20 (the Bucs). So far, this year the Bills are 2-3, having given up a combined total of 18 points in their two victories and a minimum of 22 points in each loss. So, the McDermott-era formula for winning seems to be pretty clear.
Yesterday, the Bills passed for only 79 net yards (82 minus 3 for one sack) but managed to outgain Tennessee slightly, 223-221 . Turnovers, which were also a big factor for the Bills in 2017, went in the Bills favor 3-1, which was a big factor, as was an effective (not great) running game that churned out 144 yards on a whopping 43 carries. That's not quite four yards a tote, but it did help the Bills control the clock to the tune of a seven-minute time-of-possession advantage, which obviously keeps that other team's offense off the field and reduces their opportunities for scoring.
Congrats to the Bills on a great (and ugly at times) win, but hell, after the first two games, 2-3 is a good place to be right now, especially in the AFC. I'm not saying we are going to make the playoffs, but if we can continue to repeat this formula of a decent rushing attack, solid defense, and minimizing turnovers while being opportunistic on D, maybe we can squeak out a few more wins.
Next Sunday will be an interesting test, at Houston, which has all sorts of offensive firepower but seems to keep getting in its own way. They are also 2-3. I think a win is possible but not probable, but then again, Houston only scored 19 at home vs. Dallas yesterday. Let's hope we can run the ball effectively and keep JJ Watt and friends from messing up Allen.
Yesterday, the Bills passed for only 79 net yards (82 minus 3 for one sack) but managed to outgain Tennessee slightly, 223-221 . Turnovers, which were also a big factor for the Bills in 2017, went in the Bills favor 3-1, which was a big factor, as was an effective (not great) running game that churned out 144 yards on a whopping 43 carries. That's not quite four yards a tote, but it did help the Bills control the clock to the tune of a seven-minute time-of-possession advantage, which obviously keeps that other team's offense off the field and reduces their opportunities for scoring.
Congrats to the Bills on a great (and ugly at times) win, but hell, after the first two games, 2-3 is a good place to be right now, especially in the AFC. I'm not saying we are going to make the playoffs, but if we can continue to repeat this formula of a decent rushing attack, solid defense, and minimizing turnovers while being opportunistic on D, maybe we can squeak out a few more wins.
Next Sunday will be an interesting test, at Houston, which has all sorts of offensive firepower but seems to keep getting in its own way. They are also 2-3. I think a win is possible but not probable, but then again, Houston only scored 19 at home vs. Dallas yesterday. Let's hope we can run the ball effectively and keep JJ Watt and friends from messing up Allen.
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