We have our first interview here on Sports with Rich!!!! Let us welcome Steve Saslow, creator of www.billsdaily.com, to the blog world. Steve gives us all the latest news on the Buffalo Bills and he is here today to update us on the team's training camp, rookies, Terrell Owens, and much more.
Rich: What are your thoughts on Buffalo's training camp and preseason so far?
Steve: They have worked exclusively in the no huddle offense for every snap of training camp and the preseason. The main reason for this is to hide the deficiencies of the offensive line. It remains to be seen if they will use it exclusively throughout the season. Probably not. The offense has struggled and the defense has not looked much better. There isn't much optimism based on what has happened this summer.
Rich: If that's the case, what are your expectations for the Bills this year?
Steve: It will likely be a very tough year because of the division they are in. With a totally rebuilt offensive line making things more difficult for the offense. It could be tough to match their 7-9 record in each of the past three seasons.
Rich: Your feelings on the rookies?
Steve: The rookies have a lot of promise. The two first day rookie guards, Eric Wood and Adam Levitre, could solidify the middle of the offensive line for years to come. They will start on opening day and this year may be tough as they experience growing pains.
4th round pick TE Shawn Nelson looks like a steal as he plays more like a wide receiver and is blocking is better than expected.
7th round pick Ellis Lankster has had a huge offseason making play after play including 2 picks in one preseason game. He likely will make the team.
Top pick Aaron Maybin should be able to help as a pass rushing specialist despite the long holdout. 2nd round pick Jairus Byrd has been slowed by a sports hernia which may keep him out of the starting lineup opening day.
Rich: What's your take on T.O.?
Steve: They have nothing to lose. His $6.5 million salary is a bargain b/c of all the jersey sales and increased ticket sales that happened based on excitement of his arrival. He is a legitimate national figure in Buffalo for the first time since Jim Kelly.
On the field he has to open things up for Lee Evans and could make the passing game potent if Trent Edwards continues his development. If he self-destructs and starts ridiculing Edwards, well, that means they weren't good enough to win anyway. I dont think that will happen since it's a one-year deal. He needs to perform and be good to get one more big payday.
Rich: Any specific things to watch out for this year?
Steve: Need to see if the no huddle works or is scrapped.
Can the defense sustain a pass rush to keep pressure off a talented secondary?
Can they stop the running game?
I hope that quenched your Buffalo Bills thirst for now! You can catch Steve at the Bills home opener against Tampa Bay. I want to thank Steve Saslow for taking the time out to answer a few questions for me and remember visit http://www.billsdaily.com/
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