Bills Unveil 3-4 Defense in 29-14 Preseason Win as DJ Moore Avoids Serious Injury
Updated
Updated · The New York Times · Aug 16
Bills Unveil 3-4 Defense in 29-14 Preseason Win as DJ Moore Avoids Serious Injury
3 articles · Updated · The New York Times · Aug 16
Summary
Buffalo’s first-team defense allowed just 16 yards across three drives in Jim Leonhard’s debut, forcing three straight three-and-outs and repeatedly creating negative plays against Carolina.
The new 3-4 look leaned heavily on Deone Walker and Ed Oliver—on the field for every first-unit snap—with the Bills in nickel on 70% of plays and using varied fronts and pressure points.
DJ Moore strengthened his early connection with Josh Allen with 3 catches for 61 yards on six routes before leaving with an apparent lower-leg issue; coach Joe Brady said he is likely good to go.
Connor McGovern said his injury should sideline him for a few more weeks, though the starting center is targeting the regular-season opener, while Lloyd Cushenberry III handled all first-team snaps.
The opener also sharpened roster battles, with T.J. Sanders held out of first-half defensive snaps as Landon Jackson rose, and Jordan Hancock and rookie Kaleb Elarms-Orr earning expanded looks in Leonhard’s scheme.