Throughout the offseason, the Buffalo Bills offense garnered significant attention, especially with the departure of Stefon Diggs and Gabriel Davis, signaling a shift. However, the new group of receivers embraced a team-oriented mindset, focusing on a “everyone contributes” philosophy. The emphasis is on team success rather than individual stats like targets, receptions, or touchdowns.
This approach worked well during the first three weeks when the Bills were undefeated, but the situation feels different now that they’re on a two-game losing streak. Tight end Dawson Knox has been underutilized, managing only three catches for 30 yards. Nevertheless, quarterback Josh Allen emphasizes Knox’s importance to the offense, pointing out the potential drawbacks of the “everyone contributes” mentality.
“Very important,” Allen said. “We talk about ‘everyone eats,’ and it’s fine and dandy when everybody is, but sometimes there’s people that are left out, and you want to continue to incorporate them in your offense.
“(Knox) has been one guy that we got to get going … I think the whole team knows that, and we’re better when 88 is playing well. Just finding ways to get guys the ball and open space, and it starts with me.” “It starts with me” is, of course, how every offense works with its QB in charge. But yes, those four words are especially true for Buffalo.
The Bills’ offense ran like a well-oiled machine through the first three weeks, posting points totals of 34, 31, and 47. However, in the last two games, the machine has started to stutter and splutter, scoring a combined 30 points.
While the “everybody eats” mentality worked well for Buffalo early in the season, the real test of the offense’s commitment to this approach is now upon them. In challenging times, players often revert to self-preservation instincts. With the New York Jets next on the schedule, we’ll see if Buffalo truly prioritizes a team-first attitude.
