After another big game Sunday, Bills RB C.J. Spiller kept his spot as the NFL's top rusher. He has 292 yards over two weeks. (AP) |
Buffalo FS Jairus Byrd suffered a foot injury in Sunday’s win over Kansas City but is expected to play in Week 3 against Cleveland.
“He played the whole game and it came out a little bit more swollen today than maybe all of us had hoped," coach Chain Gailey said. "I think he’ll be fine for this weekend.”
Byrd, a fourth-year starter, tied for the team lead in tackles (7) in the 35-17 win over Kansas City. He ended the game with an interception on a Chiefs' Hail Mary attempt. If Byrd is unable to go, the Bills have some depth at safety. Da’Norris Searcy is currently getting some snaps at SS in place of starter George Wilson, and Wilson could slide to FS if needed.
Spiller thriller: Leading up to Monday night’s game, RB C.J. Spiller led the league in rushing with 292 rushing yards. Spiller has an astounding 10.07 yards per carry average, which is the best average by any running back through two games since the legendary Jim Brown averaged 11.3 ypc in his first two games in 1963.
McKelvin shines on special teams: CB Leodis McKelvin made the most of his opportunity on Sunday. After being benched from his starting nickel role, McKelvin was a difference-maker on special teams. He returned a punt 88 yards for a touchdown in the third quarter to put Buffalo up 35-3. It was the second longest punt return in team history. “The same thing happened last year, if you remember,” Gailey said. “We started playing Aaron Williams a lot more on defense and Leodis went and played special teams and did an outstanding job and that’s the way he is, he’s a true professional.”
Dareus returns to family: One week after his younger brother was murdered, DT Marcell Dareus returned to be with his family in Birmingham, Ala. following Sunday’s win. Gailey said he didn’t know when Dareus would return, though he’s expected to play in Week 3. Dareus also suffered a shoulder injury against the Chiefs but Gailey thinks he’ll be fine.
Gailey on replacement refs: The replacement referees have received mixed reviews around the NFL, but they’re not a big concern for Gailey. “I think coaches in general and players in general complain about officials, I don’t care who they are," Gailey said. "That’s just our nature. We want everything to go not only perfect but our way. And they don’t. If you’re looking for a perfect scenario, you’re never going to find it because the human element is involved.”
For more updates on the Bills, follow correspondent Mark Ludwiczak on Twitter @CBSBills and @MarkLud12.