[Preview 2024] Buffalo Bills: Powerful but Limited in the Air?

As we look ahead to the 2024 NFL season, the Buffalo Bills are shaping up to be a formidable force on the field. The team has shown consistent improvement over the past few years, with a robust defense and a ground game that has left many opponents in the dust. However, despite their strengths, there are questions about their aerial attack. Is it powerful enough to compete at the highest level? Or are the Bills limited in the air?

The Bills’ ground game has been their bread and butter for several seasons now. With a strong offensive line and a stable of talented running backs, they’ve been able to control the clock and wear down defenses. This strategy has served them well, helping them reach the playoffs in three of the last four seasons.

However, as the NFL continues to evolve into a pass-first league, there are concerns about whether the Bills’ air attack can keep up. In 2023, they ranked 22nd in the league in passing yards per game, a statistic that doesn’t bode well for their future prospects.

The team’s quarterback situation is a significant factor in this. While Josh Allen has shown flashes of brilliance, his inconsistency has been a cause for concern. His completion percentage and quarterback rating have fluctuated wildly from game to game, and he’s struggled with turnovers at crucial moments.

The Bills’ receiving corps also leaves something to be desired. Stefon Diggs is a bona fide star, but he can’t do it all on his own. The team lacks a reliable second option, which allows defenses to focus their attention on Diggs and limit his effectiveness.

There’s also the issue of play-calling. The Bills have been criticized for their conservative approach on offense, often opting to run the ball even in situations where a pass might be more effective. This has led to predictable play-calling and has made it easier for defenses to shut down their offense.

Despite these issues, there are reasons for optimism. The Bills have a young, talented roster and a coaching staff that has shown it can adapt and improve. The team’s front office has also demonstrated a willingness to make bold moves in the draft and free agency to address their weaknesses.

In the 2024 offseason, the Bills made several moves to bolster their passing game. They drafted a highly touted wide receiver in the first round and signed a veteran tight end in free agency. They also brought in a new quarterbacks coach to work with Allen and help him improve his consistency.

These moves show that the Bills are aware of their limitations in the air and are taking steps to address them. However, it remains to be seen whether these changes will be enough to elevate their passing game to the level of their ground attack.

In conclusion, while the Buffalo Bills are a powerful team with a strong ground game, they have been limited in the air. However, with some key offseason moves and continued development from their young players, they have the potential to improve their aerial attack and become a more balanced and dangerous offense in 2024. Only time will tell if they can turn this potential into reality.