| One can only imagine what was going through Bills coach Chan Gailey's mind in Sunday's embarrassing 52-28 loss to the Patriots. The Bills have now allowed 100 points in their first two AFC East games this season. (US Presswire) |
The Bills had the Patriots right where they wanted them. Following Donald Jones' 68-yard touchdown early in the third quarter, the Bills were up 14 against the rival Patriots in front of a raucous home crowd.
Then the wheels fell off.
The Patriots scored touchdowns on six consecutive possessions and the game quickly became a rout, with New England winning 52-28. The Bills have now allowed 100 points in their first two AFC East games of the season.
Offense: D
Both Fred Jackson and C.J. Spiller were able to suit up after dealing with injuries, but neither had an impact against the Pats. The two combined for just 62 yards and were unable to generate a consistent rushing attack. Ryan Fitzpatrick had some good throws (like his two touchdowns to TE Scott Chandler) and several he’d like back (like his four interceptions).
Previous week's grade: B
Defense: F
The Bills’ revamped run defense was one of the stories to watch through three games. Against the Patriots? Not so much. It was Brandon Bolden and Stevan Ridley who powered New England’s offense against the Bills, with each RB topping the 100-yard mark on the ground (Bolden had 137 yards and 1 TD, Ridley had 106 yards and 2 TDs). Buffalo’s expensive defensive line did very little, and there was plenty of space once the Patriots RBs got to the second level. The defensive line was unable to make Tom Brady uncomfortable in the pocket, as well.
Previous week's grade: B+
Special teams: C
In his first game as a Bill, Shawn Powell dropped two punts inside the opposing 20. He also had a shank in the third quarter that led to the Patriots taking a 28-21 lead. Leodis McKelvin wasn’t a factor in the return game.
Previous week's grade: B
Coaching: D
On paper, the Bills appear to have a pretty stout defense. So what the heck is going on there? Why can’t the Bills generate any pressure, and why are there so many open lanes in the run game? In what has been a recurring theme throughout the last decade, Bill Belichick out-coached his Bills counterparts.
Previous week's grade: B
For more updates on the Bills, follow correspondent Mark Ludwiczak on Twitter @CBSBills and @MarkLud12.