Bufffalo Bills OTAs Week Two: Defense Implements New Blitz Packages

Early on in the Bills OTAs, the defensive unit has come to find new ways to get to the quarterback, making things tough on Trent Edwards and the offense.  

Defensive Coordinator Perry Fewell is developing new blitz packages in an attempt to improve their pass rush for 2009.

New schemes have affected Edwards’ offense, causing him to make quick decisions to avoid the sack. The results have been more incomplete passes by the offense and forcing more checkdown throws than most days in the first two weeks of OTAs.

“Throwing hot routes is not exciting football," said Edwards. “But that’s something we're going to face and something we’ll have to adjust to.”

Edwards mentioned that he prefers having to make changes on the fly in a practice setting. His comfort and confidence are great signs for a team trying to open up their offense, possibly using the no-huddle.

With Fewell’s speedy defensive approach, the defense outplayed the offense in 11-on-11s on Wednesday.

Aaron Maybin will be a significant help as he fights to gain playing time with Ryan Denney and Chris Kelsay, who should be fighting for left defensive end position. Increased competition in practice means better performance on the field and assures the best player gets the most playing time.

The Bills are also throwing more linebacker and safety blitzes utilizing their speed at those two positions.

On Wednesday, Bills cornerback Terrence McGee was injured while breaking up a pass intended for Terrell Owens and landing on his shoulder.

He returned the next day, but did not play, staying on the sidelines without a shoulder sling, hinting that the injury wasn’t as bad as it initially seemed.

The second week of OTAs also saw the return of fullback Corey McIntyre almost two weeks after being arrested in Florida.

Aaron Schobel has not been in attendance all week and has not yet shown up for this year’s OTAs.

Several key players have yet to participate in OTAs mostly due to injuries, including John DiGiorgio, James Hardy, Cary Harris, C.J. Hawthorne, and P.K. Sam.