The Buffalo Bills are facing a crucial stretch, and while their defense has been plagued by injuries throughout the season, they are hopeful to have some starters back for their upcoming game against the New England Patriots. Cornerback Rasul Douglas is expected to return after missing last week’s win against Detroit due to a knee injury. However, several other key defensive players, including linebackers Matt Milano and Dorian Williams, and safeties Taylor Rapp and Damar Hamlin, are listed as questionable.
Despite these injury concerns, head coach Sean McDermott has praised his defensive coaching staff for maintaining consistency in their approach, even with a constantly rotating lineup. The Bills’ defense has faced challenges, especially against high-scoring offenses like the Rams and Lions, allowing a combined 79 points and nearly 1,000 yards in the past two weeks. This puts added pressure on the defense to regain its form, particularly in creating takeaways, where they have dropped off in recent games.
If Rapp and Hamlin are unable to play, Buffalo is expected to rely on Cam Lewis and rookie Cole Bishop at safety. The lack of experience between Lewis and Bishop has been noted, but they are learning the importance of communication in the secondary. With the Bills needing all hands on deck for the final stretch of the regular season, they will look to bounce back defensively and take advantage of favorable matchups, especially against a struggling Patriots offense.
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