C.J. Spiller and the Bills run over the Bengals
The Buffalo Bills defence gave up some big plays against the Cincinnati Bengals, but their offence made some big plays of its own to lead the Bills to a 35-20 victory on Saturday.
Rookie running back C.J. Spiller has been every bit as good as advertised and scored twice in his second NFL start, replacing Fred Jackson who will sit four-to-six weeks with a broken hand, and Marshawn Lynch out three-to-four weeks with a sprained ankle.
Not to worry, Spiller has been showcasing his speed and elusive style of running for the past two weeks and produced three scores in his last two pre-season games.
But Spiller showed his versatility and toughness in week three’s exhibition. He showcased his speed on a 20-yard touchdown after blazing past defender Adam Jones, leaving him in the dust, and also showed critics that he is powerful enough to lower his head and score from one yard out of the end zone.
"You can see what he does," said centre Geoff Hangartner of the former Clemson star tailback. "All of a sudden, I see him break a run and I'll be yelling, 'Go to the house!' He's a dynamic player. He brings more of a home-run hitter element to our offence."
Last week, Spiller, selected ninth overall in the draft, turned in a solid performance with 10 carries for 54 yards and one touchdown. This week, he rose once again to the occasion and posted similar numbers, tallying 52 rushing yards and two catches for 33 yards.
Despite the loss, the Bengals (2-2) also got some offensive fireworks from their starters. On his first three opening series, Carson Palmer shredded the Bills’ secondary, going 9-of-11 passing for 95 yards and two touchdowns.
Palmer was poised in the pocket and the lack of a pass rush allowed Palmer precious time to locate his receivers and throw precise passes. He connected with rookie tight end Jermaine Gresham for a 9-yard touchdown and finally completed a touchdown pass to Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson for a six-yard strike.
"We're getting better and better each week," said Palmer. "I love what Jermaine is doing. I love what Terrell [Owens] is doing, and Chad is playing like he believes he's the best receiver in the league."
Terrell Owens made his return to Buffalo after playing last season with the Bills, hauled in three catches for 35 yards and sees nothing but good things for the Bengals. "We have something special," said Owens. "The sky's the limit for this team."
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