LeSean McCoy's injuries continue with the Buffalo Bills. The franchise acquired the running back with the goal that he would be the new workhorse of the team and keep the offense balanced. While McCoy has the talent to make that happen, he does not have the health. Earlier in the offseason, ESPN's Josina Anderson reported that McCoy had a tear in his hamstring. He proved to be fine in the Week 1 win over the Indianapolis Colts, but is struggling once again before Week 2.
According to Mike Rodak of ESPN, McCoy was pulled early from practice on Thursday due to hamstring tightness and head coach Rex Ryan is uncertain whether or not the running back will play against the Patriots. When asked if McCoy would be on the field, Ryan simply said, "I certainly hope so."
"I don't even want to think that way, but yeah, it would be definitely [next man up]," Ryan said, via ESPN.com. "But like I said, I'm not giving up on McCoy playing."
There is no question the Bills need McCoy, especially against a strong Patriots offense. McCoy was quiet on the ground with 41 yards, but he also added another 46 yards off three catches in the receiving game. That versatility kept the offensive playbook open and the group moving well down the field. If McCoy cannot play, Karlos Williams will start in his spot. The rookie had a nice debut of 55 yards and one touchdown. Anthony Dixon also worked in with one yard off three carries. According to running back coach Anthony Lynn, Williams is very capable of handling the offensive load.
"He's a big back with speed and power. Gap schemes, zone schemes, it doesn't matter what the scheme is. He can make plays after contact. He can wear a defense down. And he can be a great complement to a guy like LeSean, who's quick and speedy," Lynn said, via the Buffalo News.
The big x-factor for the Buffalo Bills will continue to be Sammy Watkins as Tyrod Taylor must get the star receiver involved more. Watkins was held without a catch against the Indianapolis Colts. Percy Harvin thrived for Taylor while Robert Woods worked in as well. Watkins is a big mismatch nightmare and could end up performing well against a weakened Patriots' secondary. Ryan told the media after the game that they were simply reacting to the defense and as long as the team wins, he does not care how many catches Watkins has. That could remain true against the Patriots.
