Bills defence faces correction test after Houston win
Jim Leonhard says Buffalo’s defensive performance improved on review, but the team must address execution, penalties and third- and fourth-down failures before facing Detroit.
The Buffalo Bills secured a win over the Houston Texans last Sunday, but defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard identified several issues requiring attention before Thursday’s game against the Detroit Lions.
Houston recorded 26 first downs and converted nine of 18 third- and fourth-down opportunities. Buffalo also committed five defensive penalties that produced first downs, including two on third down, while the Texans made 10 plays of at least 12 yards.
Leonhard said the defence had positive energy and effort, but its execution and attention to detail fell below the team’s standards. He also acknowledged that players appeared uncertain at times when the game began to unravel.
The performance came during Buffalo’s transition to Leonhard’s odd-man front defence. Players are adjusting to different positions, assignments and responsibilities, while several front-line players had limited time together during the preseason.
Head coach Joe Brady said the Bills were still developing an understanding of how best to use their players and needed to ensure the same mistakes did not recur. Leonhard said his review of the film was more encouraging than his initial assessment during the game, leaving him convinced the defence was closer to its intended level than it first appeared.
The assessment, reported by Yahoo Sports, leaves Buffalo with a clear preparation task: convert the positive elements of the Houston win into more consistent defensive execution against Detroit.
