Buffalo Bills: Five things to know

By Ross Jackson

The New Orleans Saints are set to square off with the Buffalo Bills this weekend and are expected to be outmatched in the process. However, the team is hoping to show a competitive side against one of the league’s top teams. Here are five things you need to know about the Bills ahead of Sunday’s Noon CT matchup.

1. The Buffalo Bills are one of the NFL’s best teams

This one is well-known, but worth reminding. The Saints are about to measure up against one of the league’s most elite teams. Quarterback Josh Allen is the reigning MVP, running back James Cook is the league’s second-leading rusher throughout Week 3’s games and the Bills’ passing defense ranks second in the NFL. This isn’t the same team that the Saints ran all over in Highmark Stadium in 2017. 

2. Buffalo’s rushing defense is one of its most obvious vulnerabilities.

The Bills have struggled to stop the run early this year without defensive tackle Ed Oliver in the lineup. The team currently ranks No. 32 in the league against the run while surrendering the third most yards per carry on first downs (5.4). If the Saints will have any chance at holding on to the football in an attempt to control this game, it will be through running back Alvin Kamara. 

3. Bills offensive lineman Spencer Brown was a concerning injury report addition on Wednesday.

In addition to tracking Oliver’s progress throughout the week, watching for Brown’s will be important as well. The starting right tackle has played 220 snaps already this season without surrendering a sack. He’s also a key part of the run game whether on the play side or the reverse side of a play.

4. The Bills’ third down defense has left a lot to be desired.

Whether against the Baltimore Ravens (6/11) or the Miami Dolphins (10/15), the Bills’ defense has struggled to get off of the field on third downs, including surrendering 30% in third and seven or more situations.

5. The Bills are currently on a 13-game home winning streak. 

During which time Allen has 37 touchdowns (26 passing, 10 rushing and one receiving) and a 105.4 passer rating. He has multiple scrimmage touchdowns in 12 of those games.