Orchard Park, N.Y. (WGR 550) - The Buffalo Bills look to win their fourth-straight game, possibly clinch a playoff spot, and avenge a loss earlier this season against the New England Patriots this Sunday at Highmark Stadium.
To do it, here are my three keys to the game, plus notes and stats:
1.) Don't let them hang around... again
In their first meeting, Bills quarterback Josh Allen threw an interception on Buffalo's very first offensive play of the game. Shortly after, the Bills were down 10-0.
From there, the Patriots grinded the game down, and the Bills had very little margin for error, ultimately losing on the Patriots' final drive.
The Patriots can't make the playoffs, and essentially have nothing to play for. Unlike the Bills, who can't let that happen again, and need to put New England away early.
2.) Smother Zappe
Patriots' second-year quarterback Bailey Zappe has now started their last four games. In the previous two, he's completed over 74% and 75% of his passes, respectively.
However, Zappe has a tendency to hold on to the ball too long when in trouble, and has been sacked 13 times over those four games. The Patriots' 13 sacks given up over the last four weeks are tied for seventh-most in the NFL.
Sean McDermott and the Bills defense needs to confuse Zappe, force him to look around longer, then have a greater chance to get him down.
3.) Get the passing game going
The Patriots will be very tough to run against. They rank first in the NFL in yards per-play allowed on the ground, and second in rushing yards allowed per-game.
However, they are middle-of-the-NFL pack in passing yards allowed per-play and per-game, and on Saturday they ruled starting safety Jabrill Peppers out of the game with an illness.
Offensive coordinator Joe Brady and Allen under center can't force the run game and get into long yardage situations, and try to take advantage of a secondary that won't be completely healthy.
There should be some opportunities.
NOTES AND STATS:
