After beating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 30-27, the 4-2 Buffalo Bills, who are undefeated at home, will need to once more defend their dirt when the 3-4 Oakland Raiders come to town.
Here’s what to watch for in Week 8’s matchup:
1) Shady’s Back Again
After going five games without scoring a single touchdown, Bills running back LeSean McCoy decided to have himself a day by scoring two rushing touchdowns. He also netted 122 yards with 28 touches, which considerably helped in securing a victory. One major snag in the quest for the win was his fumble that happened in the fourth quarter, which he acknowledges nearly cost the Bills the game. This fumble mishap is very uncharacteristic of him. Nonetheless, it’s good to see Shady has exemplifying himself as an elite running back who is back on target in chasing after a career 10K yards.
2) Deonte Thompson: The Unsung Hero
I’m quite guilty of not knowing much about receiver Deonte Thompson after the Bills picked him up just five days prior to the game. The former Chicago Bear made quite the impact with his new team while playing against the Bucs. Though only catching four receptions, he managed to get 104 yards. His longest being a beautiful 44 yard catch from Bills quarterback Tyrod Taylor. Taylor and Thompson are no strangers as they played together as Baltimore Ravens. Hopefully, this surprising yet special chemistry can continue against the Raiders.
3) AC/DC is Electric
Raiders receover Amari Cooper finally sparked his game against the Chiefs last week. With 11 receptions, he racked up a total of 210 yards and scored two touchdowns. This electrifying connection between quarterback Derek Carr and Cooper could carry on over to this matchup. The solid Bills defense will need to focus their efforts on containing this charged up offensive duo.
4) Mack Back in Buffalo
Raiders Defensive End Khalil Mack is making a homecoming of sorts. The former 1st round draft pick spent his college years at University at Buffalo. The Bills offense will need to find whatever it takes to avoid the monster moves of the 2016 Defensive Player of the Year and overall outstanding pass rusher when he comes back to Buffalo as a pro player.
