The Buffalo Bills suffered a 34-25 setback vs. the New York Giants in the NFL preseason opener for both teams, in a game that saw most of Buffalo’s starters play for roughly one quarter of action.
While reigning NFL MVP Josh Allen watched from the sidelines, incumbent backup quarterback Mitchell Trubisky and challenger Mike White combined to pass for 250 yards and three touchdowns as both stated their case to earn the backup role behind Allen.
Today’s edition of Buffalo Rumblinks leads off by examining other thoughts and observations from the preseason opener, including which players saw their stock rise and whose stock is on the decline following the loss to the Giants.
Lessons learned from preseason Week 1
For players looking to make an impression on general manager Brandon Beane and head coach Sean McDermott, the preseason opener offered a valuable opportunity to showcase their skills while going up against another NFL team. And there were several players who enjoyed standout performances, including: defensive end Joey Bosa, rookie defensive back Jordan Hancock, rookie defensive tackles Deone Walker and T.J. Sanders, wide receivers Tyrell Shavers and K.J. Hamler, running back Ty Johnson, linebacker Joe Andreessen, and returner Laviska Shenault.
Among those who struggled in their first game action of the year were: tight ends Zach Davidson and Jackson Hawes, rookie cornerback Dorian Strong, rookie defensive end Landon Jackson, center Jacob Bayer, and punter Brad Robbins. One area of concern on defense was the Bills lack of an answer to the Giants’ screen game, and Buffalo’s inability to convert on third down (1-of-11) and get off the field on third down (9-for-19).
More important than any on-field development, the Bills managed to avoid the injury bug, with nickel cornerback Taron Johnson leaving the game early but being cleared from the concussion protocol during the contest.
What the Bills are saying after Week 1
We hear from head coach Sean McDermott, backup quarterbacks Mitch Trubisky and Mike White, running back Ray Davis, and linebacker Joe Andreessen on what stood out from Buffalo’s preseason opener.
See where Josh Allen ranks among his QB peers by various traits; learn how former Bill Kaiir Elam is turning heads at Dallas Cowboys training camp; see how defensive end Javon Solomon is ready to produce in his second season; and more!
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