New England Patriots wish to shake off their bad start as they take on Buffalo Bills –NFL Preview
New England Patriots (1-2) did not have a start to the new season the way they wanted and it will not get any easier as they face the resilient Buffalo Bills in Week 4 game on Sunday, September 30, 2012, at Ralph Wilson Stadium, Buffalo,
New York.
Patriots have an outstanding record against Bills throughout last decade, but they have to remember the two games they played against them last season.
During the first game between the two teams in the 2011 season, Patriots gave away their lead of 21 points to lose the game 34-31.
Although they managed to win their Week 17 home game against Bills, it was a tough day on the field for them.
Moreover, Bills have got a sparkling (2-1) start to the 2012 season, winning their last two games after losing the season opener.
Bills head coach Chan Gailey is optimistic that his team will be able to continue their winning run. Gailey said:
"It is a great opportunity for us. They are going to be at an all-time focus level for this ball game just because of who they are."
One cannot ignore Patriots’ strength when it comes to overall output of the team. Although they have lost two of their last three games, both of the losses resulted after closely contested games.
Patriots quarterback Tom Brady has pointed out previously that his team’s failure to sustain the lead has led to miserable start to the season. Brady said:
"We just don't play well when we need to. We've got to play our best when it means the most, and we need to start winning close games."
Bills chances of winning this tie will be bolstered by return of their premier running back Fred Jackson, who has not been able to play since getting a knee injury during the season opener.
Also, quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick is in outstanding form. He has scored eight touchdowns this season and has covered 581 passing yards.
Patriots offence is in good form, as is usually the case. However, it is the defence that is hurting the team the most.
They allowed as many as 503 yards during their Week 3 game against Baltimore Ravens. This could become the Achilles’ heels for Patriots if the defence fails to stop the Bills strong offence. Defensive lineman Vince Wilfork said:
"The offence played their tails off, and we just left them out to dry, and we can't do that. So we have to take it and move on. We have to get better from this. We definitely have to get better. We will get better."
Out of the last 17 games between these two teams, Patriots are way on top with 16 wins. Things can drastically change if Bills offence continues to give monstrous performance.
Tags: