"The T.O. Show" 2009, From Buffalo

Ko Simpson, Donte Whitner, and Bryan Scott will get the majority of the playing time at the safety spots. All three had 60 plus tackles and with the Bills only allowing 14 passing touchdowns last year, the defensive backfield shouldn't be in too bad of shape. It's youth provides some question marks but also a lot of potential.  

The defensive line didn't do much to help the offensive line, only picking up 24 sacks compared to the 38 allowed last season. Rookie Aaron Maybin will get a chance to play but typically defensive lineman don't break out in their rookie season; see Mario Williams. Aaron Schobel will return from injury last season and will certainly aid in the sack total this year.

Veteran Marcus Stroud will try to bolster the middle once again, but will look for an emergence of John McCargo, former first round pick and so far disappointment. His broken foot during his rookie season required season-ending surgery, as did last year's back injury. 

Looking Ahead

The two biggest question marks for Coach Dick Jauron this season lie within the lineman, on both sides. If the O-Line can provide some running room for Marshawn Lynch, and he has a pro-bowl type season, the offense will be scary good as the run will set up the pass and make it easier for Edwards, Owens, and Evans. If not, Edwards will be harassed like he was last year and the air attack won't be able to get off the ground. 

If the D-Line can pressure the quarterback and clog the middle, Buffalo will make it awfully difficult to move the ball against them. If not, the rushing defense (allowing 122 yards per game last year) will again hold back the overall defense to a sub-par season, possibly calling for Jauron's job.

I don't think the lines will hold up and given the current caliber of the AFC East, I believe the 50th anniversary season will see the Buffalo Bills miss the playoffs for the 10th straight year.

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