The defense will be tested again this week, but for the most part this season they have lived up to the test.
The Buffalo Bills defense has had a strong season under new coordinator Bobby Babich, and against a struggling New York Jets offense led by Aaron Rodgers, that should be no different. There isn’t much to be happy about in New York right now, as Rodgers is coming off of a three-interception game, and Breece Hall couldn’t get much done on the ground last week in London. Now with the Bills’ defense banged up in some areas, other players, specifically at pass rush, will have to step up and make the plays.
The defense will be tested again this week, but for the most part this season they have lived up to the test. Let’s take a look at some players the Bills will have to put their trust in to have a big performance this week.
Greg Rousseau
After Rousseau’s three-sack performance in Week 1, he, and the pass rush, have struggled since then. Now as the Bills enter the second week of Von Miller’s suspension, “Groot” will have to step up to the challenge and get in Rodgers’ face early in the game. The Jets’ offensive line allowed Rodgers to be sacked three times last week against the Minnesota Vikings. And as they deal with injuries of their own, an experienced Bills defense needs to disrupt not only the injured Rodgers but the run game as well.
Historically, Rousseau needs Von Miller on the other side of the line to be productive, and that’s been the case again this year. However, in a year where he is looking to get paid, and a year where the defensive line is hurting, the Bills need somebody to step up.
Rasul Douglas
The Bills have nothing to worry about with Christian Benford, as he’s having a career year this season. Douglas, however, has been shaky since the Baltimore Ravens game. The Bills need him to get back on track this week as they face Garrett Wilson and Allen Lazard, who’s been having a bit of a resurgence in 2024. Lazard has totaled 20 receptions for 240 yards and four touchdowns this season as opposing defenses have done a good job of taking Wilson out of the game plan.
If the secondary can take away the Jets pass catchers, that should buy enough time for Rousseau and company to disrupt Rodgers. Douglas has been a ballhawk ever since he was acquired at the deadline last year. As the Jets changed not only head coaches during the week, but also offensive play callers, Douglas getting his first interception of the season needs to happen Monday night.
DeWayne Carter
The Bills will give the rookie third-round pick plenty of chances this week with Ed Oliver ruled out. Carter has played a limited role in this defense, totaling six tackles, three tackles for loss, and a quarterback hit in one start. We may see a big rotation on Monday between Carter, Dawuane Smoot, and new addition Zion Logue, but Carter should get a long look as the game goes on.