PREMIUM CONTENT

Bills vs Colts: Whimsy, Weather, and a Win

Erik Turner
12/11/2017
DB+

Dec 10, 2017; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills cornerback Tre’Davious White (27) dances on the field during a timeout in a snow storm against the Indianapolis Colts in the second quarter at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

 

The week 14 matchup between the Buffalo Bills and Indianapolis Colts on any other day probably wouldn’t have gotten the attention that it did. But on this blustery Sunday, Buffalo’s reputation for treacherous conditions lived up to the hype and really added an element of excitement to this game.

Dec 10, 2017; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills running back LeSean McCoy (25) runs with the football defended by Indianapolis Colts outside linebacker Barkevious Mingo (52) during the first half at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

 

It wasn’t a high scoring affair, but then again, with Nathan Peterman and Jacoby Brissett getting the starts no one expected it to be.

 

The field conditions made it nearly impossible to focus on the Xs and Os, play calls, personnel mismatches, or injuries. The storm really forced us to enjoy the game for what it is: A GAME.

It was a game that came down to who could make a play when their team needed them to, regardless of talent level. I think these guys are the ones who stepped up and deserve to be recognized:

DE Ryan Davis

Even though he only played in 28 snaps, per Pro Football Focus (PFF), I believe he was the most consistent pass rusher. Quarterback Jacoby Brissett put it in the air on 22 occasions, and Davis was able to register four QB hurries and one sack, on top of one tackle and two run stops.

Dec 10, 2017; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Indianapolis Colts quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) drops back to pass as Buffalo Bills defensive end Ryan Davis (56) pressures during the fourth quarter at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

 

It wasn’t always pretty and the ends were more concerned on keeping Brissett in the pocket, but he was able to win his 1-on-1 matchups with power and tenacity. His motor and awareness helped hold Brissett to 69 yards passing. Davis’s production was crucial, as the Bills only blitzed Brissett one time.

https://streamable.com/ghpme

 

LB Matt Milano

Rookie linebacker Matt Milano really showed why he deserves to be the starter. Milano is typically that heat seeking missile type of athlete who will from time to time miss a tackle due to lack of control, but on Sunday in that environment, Milano was fantastic. He led the team with 10 solo tackles, two assists, and six stops.

Dec 10, 2017; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills outside linebacker Matt Milano (58) and middle linebacker Preston Brown (52) tackle Indianapolis Colts running back Frank Gore (23) as he runs the ball during the second half at New Era Field. Buffalo defeated Indianapolis 13-7 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

 

His athleticism stood out even more in the snow. He somehow was able to diagnose running back entry points with the snow falling, avoid blocks with quick awareness and by contorting his body, and flash his closing speed on a day on which not many could. Buffalo has named Milano the starter for week 15 versus the Dolphins. Bills fans should expect this kid to hold the job for the foreseeable future.

https://streamable.com/fmbr6

 

QB Joe Webb

Who would’ve imagined that special teamer and former quarterback Joe Webb would lead the Bills to a win? The jack of all trades player who threw for 5,771 yards and 37 touchdowns in college made plays with his arm and legs when the Bills needed it most. On the first set of third downs in overtime, Dennison dialed up a QB draw and a naked QB keeper to convert.

Dec 10, 2017; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills quarterback Joe Webb (14) runs with the ball against the Indianapolis Colts during overtime at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

 

The Bills went on to punt. but got the ball back with 2:25 left on the clock. On another third down play call Webb displayed tremendous mental toughness and poise. With the ball on the right hash and the Bills in a 2×2 set, Webb took the snap, held the safety with his eyes, scanned the field, and found WR Deonte Thompson streaking for a 34-yard gain.

Dec 10, 2017; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills wide receiver Deonte Thompson (10) catches a pass against the Indianapolis Colts during overtime at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

 

Webb finished the game 2/6 with 35 yards and one interception, but no one can deny how clutch he was in overtime.

https://streamable.com/0u6t4

 

RB LeSean McCoy

Last but not least, the star of the game was hands down LeSean McCoy. He finished the game with 32 carries for 156 yards and one touchdown. He tied his career record for yards after contact with 122, a feat that was also accomplished in week five of last season against the Rams. McCoy’s vision, change of direction, and footwork gave him the ability to make cuts that were too much for defenders to handle.

Dec 10, 2017; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Buffalo Bills running back LeSean McCoy (25) runs past Indianapolis Colts outside linebacker Barkevious Mingo (52) in a snow storm during the first half at New Era Field. Mandatory Credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports

 

Shady finished the game with eight forced missed tackles and three runs of over 20 yards. The team relied on him to carry them into the win column, and he delivered.

 

Honorable mention:

WR Kelvin Benjamin

 

Subscribe to our newsletter

 

https://twitter.com/Grandstand_SN/status/940393455175524352

 

Lesean Mccoy | Matt Milano | Ryan Davis

Erik Turner

0 Comments