The Buffalo Bills had a rough performance in the second 2023 preseason game, raising concerns and sparking debates among fans and analysts alike. In this article, we'll delve into the key takeaways from the game, focusing on offensive/defensive challenges and ongoing position battles.

The Middle Linebacker Dilemma Continues

One of the most pressing issues coming out of the game is the performance of the middle linebacker position. A closer examination of the games reveals that this position concerns the team. It became evident that there was a struggle to find the right fit for this crucial role. A noteworthy takeaway is that Tyrel Dodson, perceived as a starter, played well into the fourth quarter, indicating that the coaching staff still seeks his consistency and performance. The apparent absence of a clear solution indicates the team's efforts to solidify this pivotal role. The injury of Terrell Bernard, a potential contender for the position, further complicates this situation.

Cornerback Competition: Dane Jackson vs. Kaiir Elam

The battle for the cornerback two (CB2) position is another area of focus for the Buffalo Bills. The competition between Dane Jackson and Kaiir Elam has garnered attention as both players aim to secure the starting role. Despite expectations for Elam's potential upside, Jackson's consistent performance gives him the edge in the competition. It's essential to recognize that while Jackson may not be the ideal long-term solution, his reliability and familiarity with the system make him the now almost obvious choice.

Defensive Performance and Depth

While the team's overall performance in preseason games should be taken with a grain of salt, it's apparent that the Bills defense faced challenges during this particular game. The unit appeared to struggle, leading to concerns about their ability to handle certain situations. However, it's important to note that the flatness in performance could also stem from the roster's depth and the cautious approach to revealing strategies during preseason games. Despite this, some moments showcased the team's defensive strengths, particularly in run defense and individual efforts like Greg Rousseau's sack.

Offensive Line and Depth

Turning our attention to the offensive line, a unit scrutinized in this preseason matchup. The Buffalo Bills' offensive line displayed strengths and vulnerabilities, leaving fans with mixed feelings. The glaring concern emerged at the offensive tackle position, where depth and performance raised eyebrows. Tommy Doyle's injury early in the game highlighted the fragile state of this position, forcing the team to rely on substitutes like David Quessenberry and Ryan Van Demark. Quessenberry’s struggles were evident, as he faced challenges in pass protection and appeared to regress from his previous year's form.

Meanwhile, Spencer Brown, a third-season player with high expectations, showed glimpses of promise and inconsistencies that left questions about his readiness for a starting role. With offensive tackle depth wavering, the Bills must address this issue swiftly to secure Josh Allen's protection and ensure a balanced offensive line in the regular season. On a positive note, the interior offensive line exhibited commendable efforts, with players like O'Cyrus Torrence displaying promising performances. The offensive line will undoubtedly be an area of focus in the coming weeks as the team looks to fine-tune this crucial component of their offense.

Penalties Galore

Penalties were a significant point of contention in this preseason matchup for the Buffalo Bills. The team struggled with maintaining discipline on the field, resulting in the officials throwing a large number of flags. 12 in the first half, to be exact.

The defense also contributed to the penalty woes, with issues like defensive holding and pass interference calls giving the opposing team easy yardage. Coach McDermott undoubtedly has his work cut out in the coming practices as he addresses the importance of maintaining composure and focus during games. If the Bills intend to make a strong start in the regular season, rectifying their penalty issues is paramount.