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[Buffalo Bills]

Buffalo’s pass catchers still dealing with injuries as Week 8 begins

On Wednesday, the Buffalo Bills held their first practice of Week 8. It’s been 10 days since the Bills practiced and nine since they played football, yet the daily injury report is still a lengthy one.

The good news is that this year’s first-round draft pick, cornerback Maxwell Hairston, practiced for the first time since July. The Bills opened Hairston’s 21-day practice window, and he was listed as a limited participant in Wednesday’s practice. It’s almost certain he won’t play this Sunday in Carolina, but it’s quite possible that we will see him on the field in early November.

Other good news for Buffalo’s defense is that linebacker Matt Milano was able to practice, although limited, on Wednesday. In Week 5, Milano aggravated a pectoral injury he had been previously dealing with. The setback kept him out of the Monday night game in Atlanta for Week 6 and had many wondering why the Bills didn’t place him on Injured Reserve (IR). However, it looks like the injury isn’t as severe as it could have been and maybe Buffalo just brought him back a week too early.

Unideal news is that despite not playing in that Week 6 game and having another week of rest thanks to the bye, neither tight end Dalton Kincaid or wide receiver Curtis Samuel have healed. While both were limited on Wednesday, it’s not great news that the two pass catchers are still not up to full strength.

The questionable nature around the availability of either Kincaid or Samuel is magnified by the fact that wide receiver Joshua Palmer was not able to practice due to a knee and ankle injury he suffered in Atlanta. The good news is that with plenty of time to evaluate him, Buffalo did not send Palmer to IR. However, one – or preferably more – of these three needs to be available on Sunday, and Palmer isn’t going to be the one.

Also not practicing on Wednesday were safety Taylor Rapp, who head coach Sean McDermott said has been dealing with a knee injury since training camp, and defensive tackle DaQuan Jones who injured his calf during pregame warm-ups in Week 6. If Rapp is out, it’s likely going to be another game for veteran safety Jordan Poyer.

The defensive tackle situation isn’t as clear. If Jones can’t go, the Bills will have to decide whether to use Jordan Phillips’ third and final elevation from the practice squad, or instead bring Phidarian Mathis up for the second time this season. Of course, they could do neither and just go with three defensive tackles on Sunday as Larry Ogunjobi is back on the active roster after serving his six-game suspension.

Linebacker Terrel Bernard was also limited on Wednesday. The Bills’ defensive captain injured an ankle the last week in Atlanta. He returned to play after the original injury. That news, combined with him practicing in some capacity now, would indicate that they may just be limiting him out of caution and that he could be available on Sunday.

As for the Carolina Panthers, it’s a short injury list. However, one of the three names on that list is significant.

Quarterback Bryce Young was injured in the Panthers’ Week 7 win over the New York Jets. It was reported that the third-year quarterback has a high ankle sprain, but he has made it clear that he wants to play Sunday. Young didn’t practice on Wednesday, but was seen on the field without a walking boot. Head coach Dave Canales said that the quarterback is doing everything in his power to be able to play on Sunday. If not, it will be Andy Dalton under center.

While Young wasn’t practicing, left guard Damien Lewis (who missed Week 7) was limited as he deals with a shoulder injury. The third Panther dealing with an injury this week is linebacker Princely Umanmielen. The outside ‘backer, who plays a depth role for Carolina, was limited with a rib injury.

While it’s just the first day of practice, the daily report gave us plenty of names to make sure we keep an eye on this week. Thursday will tell us a little more about who might be catching passes for the Bills and who might be throwing them for the Panthers.

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/bu...-still-dealing-with-injuries-as-week-8-begins

 

[Buffalo Bills]

Chargers vs. Vikings ‘TNF’ Week 8 open thread

Let’s get to, Rumblers! Week 8 is upon us, kicking off this evening with an interconference matchup between the 4-3 Los Angeles Chargers and 3-3 Minnesota Vikings. Tonight, quarterback Justin Herbert and his lot look to defend their co-owned turf against backup quarterback Carson Wentz and the skol cry.

When it comes to Buffalo Bills rooting interests, you may be conflicted with this game. On one hand it makes sense to cheer on Minnesota to victory. Truthfully, that’s the smartest path for your three-hour fandom here, since it knocks the Chargers further behind the Bills. Yet, part of you may really want the Chiefs to suffer this season, such that they potentially don’t even make it to the postseason. If so, then obviously you want Los Angeles to win so as to keep the heat on Kansas City’s barbecue while staying ahead of them.

I’m not one to favor rooting on an AFC foe when it impacts Buffalo’s chances at postseason play. Currently, the Bills are in the fifth spot for AFC playoff seeding, with the Chargers just on their heels at a half game back. It’s not great if Buffalo has to play keep-up with LA just to earn a wild card spot. The Bills trail the New England Patriots in the AFC East thanks to the head-to-head matchup the Patriots have at this time.

Worrying about the Chiefs at this point is fruitless. Some might say worrying about rooting interests is the same if the Bills don’t get their act back together soon. But, at least if the Vikings win, it keeps the Chargers behind no matter the outcome of Buffalo’s Week 8 game against the Carolina Panthers. Besides, we’re going to root for Kansas City to lose Monday night anyways. Right?

So… Skooooooooooooooooool, Vikings!

With that, here’s your open thread for Week 8 of Thursday Night Football. As always, be kind to one another — and in all things… Go Bills! (Or is that Skol Bills tonight?)

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/119659/chargers-vs-vikings-tnf-week-8-open-thread

 

[Buffalo Bills]

5 Buffalo Bills to watch against Carolina Panthers

The Buffalo Bills have not lost three regular-season games in a row since 2018. They haven’t lost three games in a row period since the 2019 season, when they lost their final two games entering the playoffs before losing to the Houston Texans in the Wild Card Round of the playoffs. The Bills also have never lost following a bye week under head coach Sean McDermott.

Well, this week, the Bills face the Carolina Panthers. They’re coming off their bye week on a two-game losing streak. Will they continue their offensive tailspin? Will their defense continue to look lost and overpowered for long stretches of play? Or, will they do what they’ve done over the last few years, which is make adjustments, right the ship, and catapult themselves to a strong season overall?

We’re still a few days from finding out, but if they’re going to pick up an all-important victory on Sunday, they’ll need some big-time performances from their big-time players. Our five players to watch are below, but one quick note: I’m going to skip quarterback Josh Allen this week. We discuss him plenty in this space, and he’s obviously a key to success every time the Bills step on the field.

And with that, here’s our list.

_____________________________________________________________________________

RB James Cook

Buffalo’s best offensive player not named Josh Allen is James Cook, who has developed into a superstar in his own right. Offensive coordinator Joe Brady needs to be creative in feeding him touches.

Buffalo is a team devoid of dynamic playmakers on the outside. Their best pass-catchers would likely be secondary options on most other elite teams in the NFL. Cook can also catch the football, and when he has the ball in the open field, he’s a threat to score from wherever he touches the pigskin.

Sometimes, people can look so hard for solutions that the obvious answers are hardest to find. This isn’t rocket science. The best players need the ball in their hands. Allen and Cook need to be the two guys driving this train. Give No.4 the rock on Sunday in a variety of ways and the offense should open up in the way we expect.

WR Khalil Shakir

While tight end Dalton Kincaid has been an as-advertised strong contributor, he’s dealing with an oblique injury right now. That leaves Shakir as Buffalo’s best receiver — and he’s arguably that anyway, even when Kincaid is healthy. There’s no reason why Shakir should have just five targets in a game where Kincaid isn’t playing, but that’s what happened when Buffalo lost to the Atlanta Falcons.

Brady needs to dial up some plays that allow Shakir to do what he does best, which is catch the ball quickly and make people miss in the open field. It doesn’t always have to be a quick screen to accomplish this. Shakir can run drag routes, slants, quick ins, and quick outs. Honestly, maybe Brady can go crazy and design some picks and rubs where he uses a bigger-bodied player like Tyrell Shavers to create some separation for Shakir to do damage over the middle.

This also isn’t rocket science. The best players need the ball in their hands. Giving No. 10 some targets early could help to open up others players later in the game.

DT Larry Ogunjobi

Larry Ogunjobi is one of two players coming off suspension, with the other being Michael Hoecht, who should make an immediate impact for the Bills’ defensive front. I think Ogunjobi is a bigger key to the game merely due to the position he plays and the state of the roster at this time. T.J. Sanders is on Injured Reserve, and DaQuan Jones is looking like he’ll miss the game thanks to a calf injury he suffered in warmups two weeks ago.

Even if the Bills bring up a player from the practice squad here, we have to assume that Ogunjobi is going to play plenty of snaps behind Deone Walker and Ed Oliver. If the veteran can come in and provide some juice (pun intended) up front, then the Bills might be able to slow Rico Dowdle and the potent Panthers rushing attack.

LB Shaq Thompson

Is the veteran Buffalo’s best linebacker right now? Yes, he is. That means that Shaq Thompson should see plenty of time on defense, and whether he sees time with Matt Milano or in place of Matt Milano, I’m not concerned.

Thompson has looked great against the run and better than expected in short zone coverage. He’s aggressively making reads, he’s hitting hard, and he’s not missing tons of tackles. Thompson filled in admirably for both Milano and Terrel Bernard at different points, and he’s also done a good job as the third linebacker with those two players — or with Dorian Williams when Milano has been hurt.

However we slice it, Thompson should play a big part in Sunday’s game when he returns to the place he called home for the first 10 years of his career.

CB Christian Benford

In Buffalo’s last game, Drake London torched the Bills for 10 catches, 158 yards, and one touchdown. Most of that production came in the first half. When Benford followed London in the second half, though, that production slowed. London caught just one pass for 11 yards after intermission.

If the Bills are going to play man, they need their top corner to shadow the opposing team’s top receiver. It’s not something the Bills usually do, but in this year’s defense, it needs to happen.

Tetairoa McMillan is Carolina’s top receiver. Benford needs to follow him. If he does, I think the Bills have a great shot at keeping Carolina’s offense bottled up for the day. If veteran quarterback Andy Dalton, who is likely to start for Bryce Young, sees Tre’Davious White lined up across from McMillan, then it likely won’t end well for the Bills.

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/bu...falo-bills-to-watch-against-carolina-panthers

 

[Buffalo Bills]

Buffalo Bills injury report: Three out vs Carolina Panthers

The Buffalo Bills completed practice and released their final injury report for Week 8. We now know very little more than we did when this week started, but we do know three players who will not be in uniform on Sunday when the Bills face the Carolina Panthers.

On Friday, Buffalo head coach Sean McDermott announced that the team would be placing safety Taylor Rapp on Injured Reserve. Rapp has apparently been dealing with a knee injury since training camp, but hasn’t been on the team’s daily injury reports until this week. Now he’s done for at least four weeks, possibly more since he won’t be able to practice until the start of Week 12.

Who will replace Rapp? Most likely we will see another Jordan Poyer elevation this week. However, the Bills aren’t hurrying to move him to the active roster. They do have rookie Jordan Hancock, who we’ve yet to see much from, and veteran Sam Franklin, Jr. who is the team’s special teams gunner this season.

While Rapp may have come as a bit of a surprise, the other two players ruled out ahead of Sunday do not: DaQuan Jones, who injured his calf in warm ups before the Bills’ Week 6 loss in Atlanta, and Joshua Palmer, who was injured midway through that same game.

The Bills could elevate Jordan Phillips for Sunday (it would be his third and final elevation) or Phidarian Mathis. However, with the return of Larry Ogunjobi, and the deficiencies in the defensive secondary, I wouldn’t expect this to be the move.

Palmer is injured, but not placing him on IR indicates it might not have been as bad as it looked that Monday night two weeks ago. A high ankle sprain is going to keep him sidelined for this week and possibly another one. However, Curtis Samuel has apparently recovered from his rib injury and is the only Bill on the injury report to enter the weekend without a designation. While it’s not ideal, it makes McDermott’s job easier – he knows which of the six Buffalo receivers to sit on Sunday.

A bigger problem is that tight end Dalton Kincaid is still questionable. Kincaid, who looked to finally be having that breakout year we’ve all been craving, has been sidelined with an oblique injury he suffered in Week 5. Unfortunately, even after an extra week of rest thanks to the Week 7 bye, the third-year tight end still isn’t healthy.

Linebacker Matt Milano could make his return this week, but I wouldn’t bet on it. The Bills brought him back a little too early once already this season. He’s officially questionable, but if it was me, I would think of him more as doubtful. One thing that could swing that decision is the availability of Terrel Bernard. The Bills defensive captain injured an ankle in Atlanta, returned to play, and has been limited all week. He’s officially questionable for Sunday, but if he can go, Milano probably won’t.

Maxwell Hairston is officially listed as questionable as well. However, before the Bills’ first round draft pick can play, they will have to add him to the 53-man roster. There’s plenty of space with the movement of Rapp and, previously, Damar Hamlin, to IR. But, whether or not Buffalo is confident getting the cornerback, who missed almost all of training camp and all of the preseason games, on the field yet is something that, according to McDermott, “we’ll see.”

On the other side of the football field will be the Panthers, who will most likely be without quarterback Bryce Young, who they officially listed as doubtful. Young has been trying to convince the entirety of the NFL that he would be able to play this weekend after suffering a high ankle sprain last week. It appears that everyone except the third-year quarterback himself knew that wasn’t going to happen. Now, Carolina may be trying to let him down easy by not officially ruling him out just yet.

Teams have until an hour and a half before kickoff to announce their game day roster, including any practice squad elevations. So, it will be 11:30 am on Sunday before all these question marks get removed – one way or the other.

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/bu...-injury-report-three-out-vs-carolina-panthers

 

[Buffalo Bills]

Bills game day food; Sweet potato hasherole to face Panthers

Whether it’s tailgating or homegating, fans of the Buffalo Bills are known to be elite tier when it comes to food. Wingin’ It returns for it’s eighth season of Mad Hatter-esque recipes taking inspiration from the Buffalo Bills and their opponents.

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Sweet potato hasherole​

I was looking through North Carolina culinary culture and was reminded that they produce the most sweet potatoes of any state. So that led to me brainstorming sweet potato ideas. I’ve done a baked version back when the sweet potato joke for the playoffs was a big thing. I was torn between hash browns and sweet potato casserole. So I combined them and their component words to make “hasherole.”

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Sweet potato hasherole​

Serves: 4-6
Active Time: 20 min
Total Time: 40 min

Ingredients​

1 1/2 pounds of sweet potato
1 medium sized Spanish onion
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 cup brown sugar
Miniature marshmallows
Hot sauce
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil for cooking

You will need: Large mixing bowl, food processor (recommended), sauté pan, thin and flexible spatula, steel cookie cutter (optional)​

1. Clean and peel sweet potatoes; shred into mixing bowl.
2. Shred or finely chop onion; add to mixing bowl.
3. Add cinnamon and brown sugar to mixing bowl and toss ingredients together.
4. Preheat sauté pan on MED/HIGH (about 6.5 or 7 out of 10 on my stove) and add about a tablespoon of olive oil.
5. Place small mounds (about a palmful) of shredded potato mixture into the pan and immediately press flat using the spatula.
6. Add about 5 or 6 mini marshmallows on top of each flattened potato mound then drizzle with hot sauce.
7. Place a small amount of potato on top of each (about half what you used before) and press flat.
8. Add salt and pepper to taste.
9. Allow to cook for about 5- 6 min.
10. Flip carefully and cook the other side for another 5-6 min.
11. Remove from pan and serve.

Wingin’ It Tips and Prep Gallery​

As opposed to my last incredibly complicated recipe, this one is very easy. There’s only one question you might want an answer to if you’re paying attention to the carefully curated photographs. How did I get my hash browns to be such A Perfect Circle? You just need the right Tool.

The one picture this week shows the cookie cutter technique. Place a small amount potato in a steel cookie cutter already placed in the pan. Using a spoon, flatten the potato inside the cookie cutter. Add marshmallows and hot sauce (the step just completed in my picture). then add another thin layer of sweet potato and flatten. Finally, carefully remove the cookie cutter using tongs.

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/wi...-food-sweet-potato-hasherole-to-face-panthers

 

[Buffalo Bills]

Buffalo Bills live updates: Highlights from Panthers game in Week 8

The Buffalo Bills are currently in a two-game slump and, after some much-needed rest during their bye week, are hoping to right the ship on Sunday against the Carolina Panthers. The good news is that 1st-round CB Max Hairston has been elevated from IR and could make his NFL debut. The not-so-great news is that fans are unclear whether TE Dalton Kincaid and LB Matt Milano will be able to play.

The Bills sure could use a win Sunday, sitting behind the New England Patriots currently in the AFC East, but they’ll certainly have their work cut out for them. If you’re unable to attend the game or have to miss anything on TV, we have you covered. We will be live-posting all of the biggest moments from the game right here, in one spot for you.

The Bills take the field against the Panthers​

GO TIME #BillsMafia | #GoBills pic.twitter.com/6ARvwTiW6P

— Buffalo Bills (@BuffaloBills) October 26, 2025

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/bu...dates-highlights-from-panthers-game-in-week-8

 

[Buffalo Bills]

AFC Playoff Picture: Buffalo Bills keep pace with AFC East

The Buffalo Bills convincingly beat the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, keeping pace in the AFC playoff races. The New England Patriots also won, so the Bills stay a half-game behind the New England Patriots in the AFC East.

The Indianapolis Colts face the Tennessee Titans in a late-afternoon game on Sunday. Indy leads the AFC right now.

The Pittsburgh Steelers lost Sunday night against the Green Bay Packers. They still lead the AFC North, but it’s getting interesting.

The AFC West-leading Denver Broncos beat up the Dallas Cowboys.

AFC playoff standings during Week 8​

In the wild card race, the Bills are tops followed by the L.A. Chargers, who won Thursday night. The Jacksonville Jaguars are on a bye but stay in playoff position.

The Kansas City Chiefs still play on Monday night.

1. Indianapolis Colts (7-1)
2. New England Patriots (6-2, 4-2 AFC)
3. Denver Broncos (6-2, 3-2 AFC)
4. Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3)
5. Buffalo Bills (5-2)
6. Los Angeles Chargers (5-3)
7. Jacksonville Jaguars (4-3, win over KC)
8. Kansas City Chiefs (4-3, loss to JAX)
9. Houston Texans (3-4)
10. Cincinnati Bengals (3-5)
11. Las Vegas Raiders (2-5, 2-3 AFC)
12. Baltimore Ravens (2-5, 1-3 AFC)
13. Miami Dolphins (2-6, win over CLE)
14. Cleveland Browns (2-6, loss to MIA)
15. New York Jets (1-7, 1-4 AFC)
16. Tennessee Titans (1-7, 0-5 AFC)

AFC East standings after Week 8​

The Miami Dolphins were able to snag a win, downing the Atlanta Falcons with Kirk Cousins under center. The Bills and Patriots both won, as well.

The Jets held on to a late lead against the Cincinnati Bengals to pick up their first win of the season.

1. New England Patriots (6-2)
2. Buffalo Bills (5-2)
3. Miami Dolphins (2-6)
4. New York Jets (0-7)

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/buffalo-bills-news/119949/afc-playoff-picture

 

[Buffalo Bills]

All our coverage of Bills at Panthers, Week 8

The Buffalo Bills took down the surging Carolina Panthers in Week 8, winning a lopsided battle 40-9, in which running back James Cook proved unstoppable only by a snap count. Three key defenders made their debuts in a Bills uniform against the Panthers, with defensive tackle Larry Ogunjobi, defensive end Michael Hoecht, and rookie first-round cornerback Maxwell Hairston all playing significant snaps and contributing key plays to Buffalo’s win.

The Bills are now 9-0 under head coach Sean McDermott following a bye week. It was the team’s first win against an opponent in 2025 with a winning record, which may serve as a springboard to a successful second-half of the season. Buffalo’s going to need it with the New England Patriots currently holding on to the AFC East lead, and in second overall in the AFC playoff bracket.

These Bills have yet to play their best game overall, which should scare a lot of opponents. If Cook, fullback Reggie Gilliam, and the offensive line continue mauling defenses, there’s little anyone can do to keep them from greatness. Make no mistake, this is James Cook’s offense right now. Should the defense prove capable of stringing together similar performances in the weeks to come, Buffalo could once again make noise at the top of the conference.

With room for improvement in the passing game, and another injury to defensive tackle Ed Oliver, it’s anyone’s guess as to what moves, if any, general manager Brandon Beane might make ahead of the November 4 NFL trade deadline. There are plenty of names being floated about, and a wealth of talented players who bring skill sets the Bills’ current roster lacks. Quarterback Josh Allen would no doubt benefit from a few receivers better capable of creating separation, and someone who can take the top off a defense.

To keep up with all of Buffalo Rumblings’ coverage from Bills-Panthers, we’ve put together this post to serve as your guidebook in-game and during the hours and days following Buffalo’s Week 8 game in the Carolinas.

• Bills at Panthers Week 8 snap count analysis
• Penalties pose no problem as Bills pounce on Panthers
• Buffalo Rumblinks, 10/27: Bills get back in the win column vs. Panthers
• AFC Playoff Picture: Buffalo Bills keep pace with AFC East
• Bills HC Sean McDermott helping DC Bobby Babich call plays
• Buffalo Bills run to dominant win, and fortunate to be 5-2
• Bills vs Panthers game recap: James Cook dominates en route to huge Buffalo win
• James Cook’s career day for Buffalo Bills tops 2025 season
• Bills at Panthers, second-half open thread
• Ed Oliver injury: Biceps could keep Buffalo Bills DT out a long time
• Buffalo Bills highlights: Bills put up a 40-burger in lopsided win over Carolina Panthers
• Buffalo Bills at Carolina Panthers: first-half open thread
• Reacts Results Week 8: Bills Mafia have begun the healing process
• Buffalo Bills Week 8 inactives at the Carolina Panthers
• Buffalo Bills vs. Carolina Panthers Series History, Common Connections
• Bills vs. Panthers: How to watch, game time, streaming, odds and more
• Buffalo Rumblinks, 10/26: Game day! Bills vs. Panthers
• Buffalo Bills activate cornerback Maxwell Hairston from IR
• Bills game day food; Sweet potato hasherole to face Panthers
• Buffalo Rumblinks, 10/25: Previewing Bills at Panthers
• Buffalo Bills injury report: Three out vs Carolina Panthers
• Bills and Panthers not quite a mirror match
• Buffalo Bills Week 8 AFC playoff odds / NFL power rankings roundup
• 5 Buffalo Bills to watch against Carolina Panthers
• 5 Carolina Panthers to watch vs. Buffalo Bills
• Buffalo Bills Week 8 rooting interests
• Buffalo Rumblinks, 10/24: Bills getting defensive reinforcements
• Josh Allen has a remarkably consistent internal clock
• Bills Reacts Survey Week 8
• Buffalo’s pass catchers still dealing with injuries as Week 8 begins
• Bills rookie CB Max Hairston practices on Wednesday
• Buffalo Rumblinks, 10/22: CB Maxwell Hairston’s knee ‘feels good’ after Bills open his window
• Tyler Locket asks for, receives release from Tennessee Titans
• Bills open rookie CB Max Hairston’s practice window
• Bills at Panthers opening odds favor Buffalo in Week 8
• Bills to face QB Andy Dalton vs. Panthers in Week 8
• Panthers enter Week 8 vs. Bills riding 3-game win streak
• Buffalo Bills trending up/down as midseason approaches
• Michael Hoecht, Larry Ogunjobi set to return this week

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/bu.../all-our-coverage-of-bills-at-panthers-week-8

 

[Buffalo Bills]

Chiefs vs. Commanders, Week 8 ‘MNF’ open thread

Week 8 of NFL action closes out tonight with a Monday Night Football game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Washington Commanders. Buffalo Bills fans are always interested in Chiefs games, mostly for the opportunity to root against their winning ways.

It’s schadenfreude of the finest kind for Bills Mafia, and a loss tonight would set the Chiefs back to .500 with a 4-4 record. Meanwhile, the Commanders are looking for a W that would improve their 3-4 record to a .500 4-4 on the season.

Bills fans should want the Chiefs to lose this evening, even if that makes for a more hungry and potentially dangerous KC team in Week 9. Why? If you read our Bills Week 8 Rooting Interests article, you’d remember that the move is always to see the Chiefs pushed down, and in this case further into a hole too deep to dig out of before the playoffs.

Is it likely Kansas City loses tonight? We know better, but I’m saying there is a chance. Yes, quarterback Jayden Daniels is injured and won’t play, but backup quarterback Marcus Mariota can get it done. Right? Maybe. Former Bills edge rusher Von Miller plays for the Commanders now, and he has four sacks with seven quarterback hits through seven games. Washington likes to blitz, which has helped Miller’s numbers, but that also means life could be made miserable for quarterback Patrick Mahomes.

Does The Closer have what it takes to bring down Mahomes en route to victory on Monday Night Football? We’ll find out in a few hours. Here’s your open thread for Week 8 of Monday Night Football with Joe Buck and Troy Aikman set to call the game from your television. As always, be kind to one another — and in all things… Go Bills!

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/bu...2/chiefs-vs-commanders-week-8-mnf-open-thread

 

[Buffalo Bills]

AFC East Roundup: Bills weren’t the only winners in Week 8

A bit of (easily ignored) NFL History was made last Sunday during Week 8 of action. It was the first time in the 2025 regular season where all four AFC East teams won. If you listen closely you can hear the bottles of champagne popping. The New England Patriots kept their lead in the division while the New York Jets won their first game of the season. Let’s look at some of the key takeaways from each AFC East matchup in Week 8.

It was more of the same from the Buffalo Bills in Week 8 in ways, but the team finally got back to their winning ways. On one hand, the rushing attack was dominant with James Cook rushing for 216 yards on 19 carries, finding the end zone two times on the afternoon. On the other hand, the passing attack still leaves a lot to be desired with Josh Allen only completing 12 passes (and the majority coming near the line of scrimmage). The great news is the dominant play by the defense, which shut down a potent Panthers’ run game and gave quarterback Andy Dalton more fits than he could handle.

With the trade deadline approaching next week, the hope is that general manager Brandon Beane makes a move to improve the wide receivers room. However, a new wrinkle has entered the chat thanks to defensive tackle Ed Oliver suffering a torn biceps. The injury will require surgery and has him sidelined indefinitely.

The Patriots continued their strong start to the season and now hold the longest current winning streak
in the league at five games. It took about a quarter for New England to find their rhythm against the
Cleveland Browns, but the offense outscored the Browns 29-6 in the final three quarters.

Quarterback Drake Maye continues to impress, and passed for three touchdowns in Week 8. One of those
touchdowns went to wide receiver Stefon Diggs, which was his first touchdown on the season. Their
defense forced two interceptions along with a safety making things difficult for rookie quarterback
Dillon Gabriel. The Patriots look to keep their hot start going in Week 9 when they take on the Jekyll & Hyde Atlanta Falcons next week.

Speaking of the Falcons, they laid an egg against the Miami Dolphins, losing 34-10 in one of the more
surprising results in Week 8. Credit to the Dolphins playing hard for head coach Mike McDaniel as
there has certainly been a lot of talk about his future with the team.

Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa had one of his most efficient games on the season, posting a 138.6 passer rating. Wide receiver Jaylen Waddle added five catches for 99 yards and a touchdown; he’s thriving as the go-to target since Tyreek Hill was lost to a season-ending leg injury a couple of weeks ago.

Although the team is sitting at 2-6 you never know how much a team can rally after getting a W. Miami will look to build a winning streak on a short
turnaround with a Thursday night matchup against the Baltimore Ravens in Week 9.

We finish things off with perhaps the team of the week in the New York Jets. Things looked bleak in the
fourth quarter after a 73 yard touchdown drive by the Cincinnati Bengals made the score 38-24.
However, the Jets found out just how much heart their football team had by rallying to end up winning
the game 39-38. Not a lot of people expected this result as Garett Wilson and Sauce Gardner did not
play in the game due to injuries. Now beating the Bengals is nothing to brag home about given the state
of their roster but one thing for sure is that these Jets players will give their all to head coach Aaron
Glenn. It will have to be seen if the Jets can build some positive momentum going the rest of the season.

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/bu...undup-bills-werent-the-only-winners-in-week-8

 

[Buffalo Bills]

Chaos Returns! Michael Hoecht’s Buffalo Bills debut

I wrote two articles so far this year that essentially led me to having to write this one. About a month ago, I penned a piece questioning the overall talent level of the Buffalo Bills’ defense. I referenced defensive end Michael Hoecht as a player soon to return that might provide a boost. Perhaps you remember what I wrote back in March about Hoecht and understand why I was excited about his return. You don’t recall?

I cited Hoecht’s versatility with the Los Angeles Rams and felt he might be able to add an element of chaos to the defense like Lorenzo Alexander did during the beginning of Sean McDermott’s tenure with the Bills. Alexander was famous for playing any position on the line or linebacker. That ability to keep defenses guessing was a huge facet in team success.

Did Hoecht live up to the hype in his debut? Indeed.

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The hips don’t lie​

If we’re looking to see whether Hoecht fulfills the multi-tool role that Alexander embodied, let’s keep track of Hoecht’s usage. Here he’s a right defensive end aligned wide-ish from the left tackle. Hoecht was able to attack the play untouched, but had to try and determine which direction the ball was going.

I don’t mind the change of direction to discourage a bump to the outside, but I note that I don’t love the hips as Hoecht does so. By turning the hips he’s prepping to run to the sideline.

Why don’t I love that? Taron Johnson was out there to help clean that up. Hoecht’s hips turning that way meant it was also harder to change back to the inside like he needed to in order to help with the tackle. More time in the system might help Hoecht have better presence with where help is. Let’s be clear too, this wasn’t a fatal flaw on the play, either.

---

A change of pace​

This wasn’t a dominant rep, but I do consider it a good one. Hoecht was lined up in front of the tight end out of the left defensive end position, so we’re already seeing some versatility. Additionally, Hoecht tried to go to his left (our right) to prevent the play from heading outside. As soon as the ball flowed center, Hoecht flowed back to it. There was also a little bit of a hold on the play, but nothing so bad that I want to yell at the refs.

---

Double the fun​

Here, Hoecht was now playing defensive tackle so let’s just get to what would normally be my summary. In his first appearance with the Bills, Hoecht played aaaaaaaallllllll over the line. Standing, hand in the dirt. Wide 9, 3-tech, 5-tech, all the techs pretty much.

On this play he stood up two offensive linemen to allow his teammates to go to work. The collapsed pocket was likely a factor in the throw going astray. I was hoping Michael Hoecht would unlock the chaos defense in Buffalo again, and in game one I was not disappointed.

---

Deep impact​

I could have selected a handful of plays to illustrate my main point. Hoecht was getting good push and even when stood up like he was here proved able to wriggle around and discourage an escape. Hoecht maintained depth despite going back and forth. I chose this play because Hoecht is so ecstatic about his teammate’s success.

---

Strip Sack​

Like above, I could have chose a couple plays for my final highlight. I like the push on this one, the use of the hand to lift his opponent’s up to gain a leverage advantage, the swat to get the ball, and once again the excitement on the play.

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/bu...s-returns-michael-hoechts-buffalo-bills-debut

 

[Buffalo Bills]

A key Bills defender is off the injury report; 3 other players didn’t practice Wednesday

The Buffalo Bills got back in the win column on Sunday, but it came at a cost. Defensive tackle Ed Oliver tore his biceps. Oliver had surgery on Wednesday and will likely be out for the remainder of the season.

Oliver’s Injured Reserve (IR) designation means we won’t see him on any daily injury reports, in fact, here’s a whole list of defensive players whose names, among others, we won’t see for a while:

• Ed Oliver
• DeWayne Carter
• Damar Hamlin
• Dorian Strong
• Cameron Johnston
• T.J. Sanders
• Taylor Rapp

However, on the first injury report of Week 9, there was another name that was glaringly missing: Maxwell Hairston. The rookie cornerback started the season on IR, had his practice window opened a week ago, and played in his first NFL game on Sunday where he split time (close to evenly) with veteran cornerback Tre’Davious White. Now, as the Bills prepare to host the Kansas City Chiefs on Sunday, Hairston is a full go.

Other good news for Buffalo’s secondary was that both starting linebackers Terrel Bernard and Matt Milano were full participants to open the week. Bernard was in uniform, but in a “break glass in case of emergency” form, for Week 8. There was no emergency as Dorian Williams and “Buffalo” Joe Andreessen had a good afternoon in Carolina.

Everyone understands that Andy Dalton is not Patrick Mahomes, and having the Bills’ defensive captain back at full strength will definitely be an asset. Likewise, Milano’s veteran presence and fiery play will be welcomed as he returns (for the second time) from a pectoral injury that has hampered him since Week 2.

Despite the good news, there were some non-participants at Wednesday’s practice, but they weren’t surprises as head coach Sean McDermott told us before practice that the trio of defensive tackle DaQuan Jones, wide receiver Joshua Palmer, and running back Ray Davis would not practice. Davis has an illness and will most likely be back in a day or two. The same can’t be said for the other two.

Jones injured a calf in Week 6 warmups and, despite extra rest due to a bye six days later, hasn’t been able to go since. Palmer was injured during the same game, suffering a high ankle sprain and a knee, thought to be an MCL sprain, injury. Like Jones, he’s been sidelined ever since.

Typically, the Bills don’t return players dealing with ankle sprains for four weeks. That means at least one more before we see Palmer back to work – barring anything more serious being wrong with his knee. Although, the fact that Palmer’s not been sent to IR would indicate he should be good to go between Weeks 10 and 11.

What we didn’t know before practice is that kicker Matt Prater is dealing with a calf injury and linebacker Shaq Thompson, who had a big day alongside Williams and Andreessen on Sunday, has a hamstring injury. Both were limited on Wednesday, but since McDermott didn’t mention them in his morning press conference, that leaves us with questions. Did they get injured during the game, but the injuries are minor, and they can practice/play through them? or Did the injuries happen in Wednesday’s practice, and they were unable to finish the day’s work? How they practice (or don’t) on Thursday will tell us more, as will seeing if the Bills were to open kicker Tyler Bass’ practice window.

It’s not the worst injury list we’ve seen out of One Bills Drive this season. But is that because the IR list is lengthy, or because they are (relatively) healthy?

Wednesday injury report pic.twitter.com/3PMP5NJSJA

— Buffalo Bills PR (@BuffaloBillsPR) October 29, 2025

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/bu...port-but-3-others-didnt-practice-on-wednesday

 

[Buffalo Bills]

Dolphins vs. Ravens Week 9 ‘TNF’ open thread

Week 9 is finally here, Rumblers! As we do so well in these SB Nation spaces, we’re once again in open thread waters, this time with a murky matchup between the 2-6 Miami Dolphins and 2-5 Baltimore Ravens. It’s fair to say that Miami’s current ship is sinking, but yet they looked pretty good in Week 8. If that Dolphins team shows up tonight, there’s not much the Ravens can do to stop things.

Quarterback Lamar Jackson returns this evening, following a hamstring injury that caused him to miss the last few games. Is his return enough to save Baltimore’s season, or are the defensive troubles too much to overcome? As a two-time NFL MVP, if sure feels like Jackson should be able to course-correct with running back Derrick Henry at his side.

However, that’s not what Bills Mafia should want this evening. Tonight? It’s Phins Up! Miami winning would put a severe dent into the Ravens’ already damaged postseason hopes. Though not invincible to Buffalo, it’s in the Bills’ best interests if they don’t have to face Baltimore in January. They’d be very interested in a rematch, and making up for a pair of gut-wrenching losses in Orchard Park, NY.

Here’s your open thread for Week 9 of Thursday Night Football. As always, be kind to one another — and in all things… Go Bills!

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/bu...350/dolphins-vs-ravens-week-9-tnf-open-thread

 

[Buffalo Bills]

Bills vs. Chiefs NFL Week 9 referee assignment

It’s finally here! The now-annual game between the Buffalo Bills and the Kansas City Chiefs that millions of NFL fans tune in for hits televisions late Sunday afternoon. Of course the biggest draw is always at quarterback, with Josh Allen and Patrick Mahomes among the game’s best… ever.

However, no matter what happens between these two football teams, the officials seem to be a talking point in almost every game. It happened last year after Allen was ruled short on an important play that didn’t lose the game, but certainly changed the momentum. So who’s set to officiate the latest regular-season matchup on Sunday? It’s none other than Carl Cheffers and his crew on the call.

Chiefs fans are probably thinking that this is the worst outcome possible. The fan base is under the impression that Cheffers tends to be biased towards opponents of Kansas City. Much of this sentiment stems from the 2016 AFC Divisional Round playoff game where a holding penalty wiped out a two-point conversion attempt that would have tied the score in a Chiefs loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers. In the aftermath of that game, tight end Travis Kelce said that Cheffers should never be allowed to wear a referee jersey again.

As for where Cheffers comes into play between KC and Buffalo on this subject? Cheffers was leading the crew that called wide receiver Kadarius Toney for lining up offside, thus negating a Chiefs’ game-winning touchdown against the Bills in 2023. On the flip side, Cheffers was officiating Kansas City’s Christmas game against the Houston Texans last season where Patrick Mahomes seemed to get some pretty favorable calls.

More recently, the Chiefs already had Cheffers’ crew to kick off the season against the Las Angeles Chargers in Brazil. In that game, Kansas City was penalized 10 times. As for the Bills, Cheffers called the Divisional Round playoff game against the Baltimore Ravens during the 2024 season that saw decent officiating all around.

Cheffers isn’t afraid to call offensive holding and false starts, as they are his most-frequent penalty calls in 2025. This doesn’t bode well for the Bills, who lead the league in offensive holding penalties. With Mahomes and Allen there’s always a chance for a roughing-the-passing penalty anytime they drop back. But that might be difficult this time around as Cheffers has only called two of those this season.

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/bu...bills-vs-chiefs-nfl-week-9-referee-assignment

 

[Buffalo Bills]

Mahomes’ legs may be key to Chiefs’ success in 2025

I’m not going to take credit for the idea on this article, but I can’t recall exactly where I saw it mentioned that Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has been running a lot this year. I decided that, ahead of the Buffalo Bills’ game with the Chiefs, it might be wise to see if “a lot” meant “more than usual.” More importantly, “a lot” doesn’t necessarily mean “well” so I thought I should check in on that too.

Here we go!

---

A Bunch of Rushing Stats!​

The data comes courtesy of Pro Football Reference (PFR) and as always I encourage you to bookmark them if you haven’t yet as they’re one of my go-to sources for football data. Please note that I did not promise you a long article as the above table does so much of the heavy lifting. Most of the data is straight from PFR, with me extrapolating

The short answer, as evidenced by the right-most column is that Patrick Mahomes has been running the ball much more often in 2025. The 5.8 rushing attempts per game easily eclipses his next highest season of 4.7 runs per game. Most seasons he doesn’t reach 4.0, let alone significantly outpace it.

Not only is he running the ball more often, it’s been more effective. His 6.1 yards per attempt is the highest of his career, though this is less glaring than the attempts. Still, this means there’s been zero decrease in efficiency even compared to his best seasons.

As a result of the increased volume and overall effectiveness per rush, the rest of the stats don’t need to be belabored. He’s currently on pace to shatter his personal records for yards in a season, touchdowns, and first downs.

What this means for Bills fans is this means for us is that having a spy on Mahomes this coming Sunday will be more important than ever. We all can easily remember that he’s gashed us before while running. It’s not like run defense has been the strength of the Buffalo Bills in the Sean McDermott era either.

Also since we’re Bills fans, we tend to think of running quarterbacks in terms of our own. How good has Patrick Mahomes been this season? Extrapolated to 17 games, in many metrics he’s approaching or even exceeding Josh Allen’s averages. We for sure know how lethal “average Josh Allen” level is, so the Mahomes run game is something to be respected.

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/bu...s-may-be-the-key-to-kansas-citys-2025-success

 

[Buffalo Bills]

The Bills have overlooked an obvious option in the passing game

The Buffalo Bills are among the NFL’s best teams, even in what may be considered a down season. That’s life with Josh Allen as the franchise quarterback. But it doesn’t always equate to smooth sailing in the parity-dominated NFL. Consider Allen’s season thus far, and how often the passing game feels disjointed and incomplete, at best.

Many believe a lot of the team’s passing struggles lie at the feet of Buffalo’s wide receivers. That’s led to more than a few people calling for general manager Brandon Beane to make a trade-deadline move that improves the on-field product.

Beane did just that in 2024, bringing wide receiver Amari Cooper aboard halfway through the season. Whatever a person feels about Cooper’s contributions (20 catches on 32 targets for 297 yards and two touchdowns), he did improve outcomes. When he wasn’t the focal point of Allen and the cameras, Cooper still demanded plenty of attention from an opposing defense.

The argument could be made for tight end Dalton Kincaid playing that role in full in 2025, but that’s only true when he’s on the field. Whether due to injury or mystifying scheme use, Kincaid just hasn’t been as significant a part of the offense as expected.

So what’s a talented, yet underperforming team to do? Is the move to sign a high-volume wide receiver from another team? Someone like Brian Thomas Jr., Chris Olave, Rashid Shaheed, or Jakobi Meyers? If so, it might be wise to temper statistical expectations (if they could even pull a trade off). Yes, Cooper’s 2024 season serves as a cautionary tale. But there’s more to it.

This all makes for a somewhat uncomfortable conversation about these Bills — those discussions centered around offensive coordinator Joe Brady and Josh Allen.

Is Joe Brady limiting James Cook’s effectiveness?​

What if the real concern is about offensive scheme, specifically the way Brady chooses to involves pass catchers? If his is a shiftless paradigm, then the Bills are headed for groundhog day no matter who they add to the equation. How, then, could things possibly change to build a more diverse and potent passing attack?

Look no further than running back James Cook III, who’s played the role of Buffalo’s offensive MVP at the halfway mark. When called upon, Cook has delivered on nearly every snap. Yet, for some reason, the perception is that Brady’s limiting Cook’s impact, effectively neutering his production as a receiver. This, despite Cook’s college resume as a receiver, and his ability to become a true dual-threat player.

It makes zero sense that Cook should have just 12 catches on 14 targets for 89 yards in seven games. The Bills seem resistant to a traditional running back screen game despite having Cook and even Ty Johnson — both of whom have elite speed. Instead, it’s the team’s group of unheralded receivers (and sometimes a tight end) catching a screen out of the backfield.

Things can’t continue this way for Cook, and need to change as soon as Week 9 against the Kansas City Chiefs.

The last time the Bills and Chiefs squared off was for the AFC Championship Game this past January. Cook was arguably Buffalo’s best player that day, a true nightmare for the Chiefs. It’s also arguable that he was underused by the offense. Bills Mafia likely remembers Buffalo’s last offensive drive that afternoon, where Cook was nowhere to be found in receiving zero snaps, and the passing game was a mess thanks to an aggressive blitz.

Cook touched the football a total of 16 times in Kansas City. In the first half, Cook saw just four carries (23 yards, 1 TD) and caught two passes (2 receptions for 26 yards). The second half saw Cook rush nine times for 62 yards and one touchdown, while catching another pass for 23 yards. He finished with 13 carries for 85 yards and two touchdowns, adding 49 yards on all three passes sent his way.

Why wasn’t Cook on the field? One can only surmise it was Brady’s choice. That is… unless Allen demanded Ty Johnson in the backfield for that moment. While imperfect as a pass blocker, perhaps it wasn’t so much about what Cook was unable to do on offense as it was Brady’s unwillingness to put a full workload on his shoulders.

That is, unless…

It’s possible Josh Allen’s responsible for James Cook’s reduced receiver role​

The narrative is incomplete if we don’t address the fire-breathing unicorn in the room. That is, Allen’s struggles and his potential role in this equation. There’s perhaps a chance that none of this is due to Brady, and Cook’s use is instead a bye-product of Allen’s play in 2025.

For example:

Just swing it to Cook!!! pic.twitter.com/sMegnnhq0Z

— Cover 1 (@Cover1) October 27, 2025

To anyone paying close attention, Allen hasn’t appeared sharp in recent weeks — especially working through his reads. He’s been quick to bail the pocket, and the play above at least introduces the idea that Allen may be ignoring Cook as a receiver. We don’t know why. We just know Allen’s struggling, and few are willing to discuss it because his stats look pretty good.

James Cook’s stats, however, are elite, and could be so much better if he was more involved as a receiver. Remember that Cook has 12 catches for 89 yards in seven games. Weeks 1 through 4 represent all of his production as a receiver in 2025 (hauling 12 of 13 passes his way). The Bills went 4-0 in that span. Since Week 5, Cook has seen one target (Week 5) and zero catches. In the last two matchups, Cook hasn’t been a part of the passing game at all. Zero. Zilch. Nada. Buffalo went 1-2 in Weeks 5 through 8.

Cook is really good; fantastic… incredible, actually. The Bills’ offensive line, fullback Reggie Gilliam, and rookie tight end Jackson Hawes deserve far more credit than most outlets have given each toward the team’s run-game success. Still, Cook is on another level and has become a truly elite every-down running back.

Recall this past offseason, when outsiders saw Cook’s contract demands as fruitless given his snap count and lack of contributions on third down. Too many viewed Cook as a replaceable talent, or at least as someone playing an afterthought of a position. All Cook’s done since receiving his contract is play like an MVP.

If only offensive coordinator Joe Brady would get the message, and send him out to catch passes on third down — or more often during other downs. If only Josh Allen would look his way more in passing situations. In two losses where the running game was held (somewhat) in check, Allen and the pass catchers struggled to establish rhythm. Wouldn’t it have made sense to get Cook more touches as a receiver?

What’s the plan, when perfection isn’t the option?​

The obvious counter for anyone who disagrees is that complaints aren’t warranted for a system that’s averaged 29.6 points through seven games. When Buffalo’s offense is on task, and functioning perfectly as sketched, points are plenty. But their success demands offensive perfection in a system that Brady and/or Allen appear unwilling or incapable of adjusting to counter a defense on the fly.

It may seem strange to dive into this now after the Bills just put up 40 on a really good Carolina Panthers defense. The question is how often will Buffalo be able to run on teams in similar fashion, and what’s the plan when that fails? Twice this season, it seems as though Plan B was left in the locker room. It’s time to roll out the Chef’s Special.

Just imagine what the offense could become with Cook catching passes out of the backfield, from the slot, or even downfield. Imagine what could be if Josh Allen, James Cook, and Joe Brady were all on the same page?

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/bu...rlooked-an-obvious-option-in-the-passing-game

 

[Buffalo Bills]

Buffalo Bills elevate 2 defenders for Week 9 vs. Kansas City Chiefs

The Buffalo Bills elevated two veterans from their practice squad ahead of their Week 9 matchup with the Kansas City Chiefs. Cornerback Dane Jackson and defensive tackle Phidarian Mathis were the two players elevated for the contest.

Mathis, 27, is being elevated for the second time this season. His first elevation came in Buffalo’s 23-20 loss against the New England Patriots. Mathis played 17 defensive snaps in that contest, which accounts for 28% of the team’s total in that game. He totaled two tackles.

Given that DaQuan Jones is out once again, and the Bills have already placed T.J. Sanders, DeWayne Carter, and Ed Oliver on Injured Reserve (IR) this season, Mathis figures to be a part of the rotation this week. Larry Ogunjobi, Deone Walker, and Jordan Phillips, whom the Bills just signed to their 53-man roster from the practice squad earlier this week, are the other defensive tackles on the current roster.

Jackson, 28, is being elevated for the first time this season. He has appeared in 61 NFL games in his career, making 31 starts. He has 175 tackles, 30 pass breakups, and three interceptions in his career.

After entering the league as a seventh-round choice of the Bills in the 2020 NFL Draft, he spent four years with Buffalo before moving on to the Carolina Panthers for the 2024 season. Jackson re-signed with Buffalo this offseason, and has been on their practice squad since he was released as a part of Buffalo’s final cuts after the preseason concluded.

With nickel cornerback Taron Johnson appearing on the injury report on Friday due to a groin injury, it’s possible that the Bills could be preparing to use Jackson on special teams in the game on Sunday. If Johnson can’t go, then Cam Lewis, a mainstay on special teams, is likely to see more time on defense. Jordan Hancock, a fifth-round pick of Buffalo’s in the 2025 NFL Draft, can also play slot corner, but the team has primarily used him as a safety.

Jackson is not a slot corner, but he could add depth and experience to the game day roster in the event of further injuries. Of course, it’s also possible that Jackson’s elevation is merely a way for him to earn a full game check, something the Bills have done with multiple veteran practice-squad players over the last few years.

We have elevated CB Dane Jackson and DT Phidarian Mathis from the practice squad for #KCvsBUF. pic.twitter.com/cBj1HcjF7W

— Buffalo Bills (@BuffaloBills) November 1, 2025

Source: https://www.buffalorumblings.com/bu...-2-defenders-for-week-9-vs-kansas-city-chiefs