2013 NFL Preview: Buffalo Bills

Added on Jul 18, 2013 by Scott in

NFL

Believe it or not, NFL training camps open Saturday when the Miami Dolphins and Dallas Cowboys begin arduous preparations for the upcoming 2013 season. Over the next seven days, sweltering summer temperatures and swarms of media will descend upon all 32 teams, signaling that football is indeed right around the corner. Every team has visions of reaching the Super Bowl, but all but two will have their dreams dashed. Beginning in the AFC East, here’s a preview of what’s to come.

Buffalo Bills

Let the era of General Manager Doug Whaley and head coach Doug Marrone begin. Can this duo rescue a drowning franchise? Probably not this year, but some promising groundwork has been laid that offers a glimmer of hope. The new brain trust is confident E.J. Manuel can be the quarterback of the future. Fellow rookies Robert Woods and Kiko Alonso could start from day one.

In the spotlight: CJ Spiller – Spiller has the skills to be a top five all purpose running back if he stays healthy. He gained over 1600 total yards in 2012 and 2000-plus is a realistic goal in 2013. With issues under center, Spiller will drive the offense. Fred Jackson is still lingering, but Marrone would be wise to get his most dynamic back on the field as much as possible.

Trouble spot: Front Seven – The Bills ranked 31st against the run in 2012. Big ticket free agent Mario Williams didn’t live up to his contract and needs to provide a bigger impact. With no free agent help added this offseason, the onus on tightening up rush lanes falls on vets like Kyle Williams and newbies like Alonso. If they can’t close the gaps, it will be another long year for a beleaguered defense.

Fearless forecast – Lots of new faces means growing pains for both players and coaching staff. It’s unrealistic and unfair to expect Manuel to be this year’s Cam Newton or RG III. Even if he wins the job outright in camp, he’ll need time to develop. The schedule isn’t brutal, but topping 8 wins would be surprising for a team in transition. That said, there is enough talent to make some noise.