My C.J. Spiller Blog

The Buffalo Bills finished the 2009 season at 6-10, and that mark relegated them to last place in the AFC East division. The season was such a disappointment that the Bills decided to cut ties with Dick Jauron. Chan Gailey was brought in as the new head man, and the organization is hoping he can succeed where Jauron failed. While Buffalo will put better talent on the field this season, most notably C.J. Spiller, Gailey's first season on the job will be a rebuilding year. It usually always takes players time to adjust to new coaching staffs and new schemes, and I expect no different in Buffalo. I'm optimistic the Bills can improve by at least a game, but it won't be easy playing in such a tough division.

Offense: Buffalo's offense was atrocious last season, scoring only 16.1 points per game. It was especially bad through the air, only averaging 157.2 passing yards per game. With Terrell Owens gone and with holes remaining in the offensive line, it's hard to think the passing game will be much better. Plus, it is still up in the air if likely starting quarterback Trent Edwards is a long term solution. Lee Evans will continue to be Buffalo's biggest weapon in the wide receiver unit. The running game is in much better shape with Spiller teaming up with Fred Jackson and Marshawn Lynch to form a very strong trio. The addition of Spiller should help both the running and passing games. Spiller is a rare home run threat that the defense must account for on every play, and I expect Gailey to take advantage of his versatility as a ball carrier and receiver.

Defense: Buffalo was terrific against the pass in 2009, ranking No. 2 in the league in pass defense. However, it was awful against the run, ranking No. 30 in run defense. With talented defensive backs like Donte Whitner, Jarius Byrd and Terrance McGee back, pass defense will remain Buffalo's strength. The Bills are hoping that their switch to a 3-4 scheme will help them improve in both of the aforementioned areas. Paul Posluszny is an animal, and Buffalo's new scheme should free him up to really wreak havoc. There are many more effective blitz packages in the 3-4, and Posluszny has the athleticism to excel in them. This side of the football did well to add Dwan Edwards, Andra Davis, Torrell Troup and Alex Carrington. It will take some time for the Bills to adjust to this new scheme, but I think it will suit them well in the years to come.

Prediction: 4th AFC East - At this point, it's hard for me to imagine a scenario in which the Bills don't finish last in the East. That's the bad news. The good news is Buffalo should be a lot more exciting to watch in 2010 with the addition of Spiller. Another sub.500 season is very likely, but I like the direction this team is moving in as Gailey starts his rebuilding project. Be sure to check out my 2010 NFL predictions to see which team I like to win the division.

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