Bills catch a major break for Sunday’s game

By Connor Byrne  |   Thursday, October 20, 2005  |  Comments( 0 )

Buffalo Bills
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Lately, everything has been going right for the Buffalo Bills. They have won two straight games and have climbed to the top of the AFC East, despite their mediocre 3-3 record. It appears that the good times will keep on rolling this Sunday against the Oakland Raiders. At least they should, as the Raiders will probably not have their best player for the game.

Last week, the NFL's most dangerous wide receiver, Randy Moss, was injured against the San Diego Chargers. He was sandwiched between two defenders and sustained injuries to his groin,ribs, and pelvis. He is currently listed as doubtful for this Sunday's contest against the Bills. Buffalo desperately needs this game and it gives them a major advantage that will likely take the zest from the Raiders' offense.

The Buffalo Bills' secondary will now focus on the Raiders' other starting receiver, Jerry Porter. He has had a disappointing year after many expected him and Moss to be the best receiving tandem in the NFL. Raiders' slot receiver Doug Gabriel will move into the starting lineup opposite Porter. Gabriel is a good player but certainly shouldn't strike fear into anyone in the Buffalo's secondary. In fact, Bills' cornerbacks Nate Clements and Terrence McGee should have field days against the Raiders' receivers.

This injury also cripples an already-weak Oakland Raiders running attack. Raiders' running back Lamont Jordan has had a sub-par year and will likely struggle again in this game. The Bills may have a run-defense that is currently ranked last in the NFL but they'll be able to stack eight men in the box on Jordan all day. He should be held well under 100 rushing yards on Sunday.

Quarterback Kerry Collins is the Raider most hampered by this injury. Despite Oakland's 1-4 start, he has been among the best quarterbacks in the league. Much of that can be attributed to Moss since he makes any quarterback look good. Collins will likely be blitzed heavily throughout the day, and given that he is among the most immobile quarterbacks in the league, it will likely lead to misery for him. The Bills' defense hasn't lived up to expectations this year but they've still been very good. Collins will get a first-hand look on Sunday.

With Randy Moss, the Raiders had one of the worst records in the NFL. It's safe to say that they'll be even worse without him. The Bills need to capitalize on the Raiders' problems and keep rolling along. If they fail, they don't deserve to be anywhere near the top of the AFC East.
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