NFL Instant analysis, recap of Bills’ blowout of Commanders
The Buffalo Bills defeated the Washington Commanders 30-0 in Week 3 action.
The Bills (2-1) looked just like the team many expected to see when the 2023 season began. The offense picked apart their opponent and the defense stuffed a young quarterback.
Here is Bills Wire’s recap and analysis of the game action:
Game recap
What didn’t go right? From start to finish, the Bills dominated the Commanders.
Buffalo put up their first points of the season on an opening drive on offense. The defense continually took away the ball or put Washington quarterback Sam Howell in the dirt.
After that first field goal, Buffalo’s first takeaway came via linebacker Terrel Bernard, the Bills offense took only one snap. It was a touchdown pass from quarterback Josh Allen to wideout Gabe Davis. The Bills didn’t look back from that 10-0 lead.
Aside from one interception from Allen prior to halftime, Buffalo was essentially perfect. Sprinkle in picks from Micah Hyde, Tre’Davious White and even AJ Epenesa… plus a Bernard fumble recovery and you’ve got your entire route.
Game balls
LB Terrel Bernard: Team-high 7tackles, interception, fumble recovery, two sacks.
WR Stefon Diggs: 8 catches, 111 yards.
DL Leonard Floyd: 3 tackles, 2 sacks.
CB Tre’Davious White: 3 tackles, interception.
S Micah Hyde: 2 tackles, interception.
The keys to the game
Handling business: Most expected the Bills to beat the Commanders. Easier said than done. Buffalo did not overlook Washington and got the job done.
Taking it away: As mentioned, the Bills took the ball away… many times.
And even more so… Sacks. Washington quarterback Sam Howell was taken down nine total times by Buffalo’s defensive front.
(Mostly) clean: Allen had a pick, but otherwise wasn’t forcing much. He was 20-for-32 passing for 218 with a touchdown. He also rushed one in and… even slid to avoid contact one time.
Quick hits
James Cook was just shy of the century mark. He had 15 carries for 98 yards but his long rush of 34 yards came late when things were done and dusted.
Allen totaled 46 yards rushing (3 carries).
Latavius Murray rushed in a score.
Gabe Davis only had one catch but made it count: A 35-yard touchdown grab.
The Bills were ever-so-close to a shutout on defense. The Commanders allowed 37-unanswered points until a later Washington field goal.
Other sacks from the Bills not yet noted: DaQuan Jones (1.5), Ed Oliver (1.5), Greg Rousseau (1), AJ Epenesa (1).
Epenesa’s interception was the first of his career… and he took it to the house for a late score. 32 yards down the field.
Tyler Bass was 3-for-3 on field goals, including one from 54 yards out.
What's next
The Bills head back to AFC East action and host the Miami Dolphins, who are fresh off scoring 70 points against the Denver Broncos. Kickoff is slated for 1 p.m.
