Via NBCSports: The Bills lost quarterback E.J. Manuel to a knee injury last Thursday night and Jeff Tuel was unimpressive enough in relief that the team resisted naming him their starter for their Week Six date with the Bengals. Coach Doug Marrone announced Monday morning that Tuel won’t be getting the nod. The team will promote Thad Lewis from the practice squad and install him into the starting lineup.
I’m not surprised by this one bit. The report over the weekend was that the Bills were chasing Josh Freeman who ultimately signed with the Vikings. It was a bit odd, since I’m pretty sure he wouldn’t be ready to go next Sunday. Lewis is a guy who played a bit in the preseason and was the practice squad QB. I’m not surprised Tuel isn’t starting since he looked completely overwhelmed in his limited minutes against the Browns.
Why does this not really matter? Well, for one, they’re playing the Bengals on Sunday. The Bengals haven’t allowed a 300 yard passer in a long, long time. Hell they shut down Tom Brady yesterday and made him look like just a regular guy, so it’s not like we needed someone to come in and throw the ball 40 times. Lewis will be asked to manage the game. Lots of screens, slants and handing the ball off to FJax and Spiller. Everyone should be healthy on Sunday, given the extra time off since we played Thursday. Look for a return of Jairus Byrd which will instantly help the defense, McKelvin should be healthier and our running backs should be 100%. I can’t say we’re going to win this game outright, but as long as Thad Lewis isn’t asked to do too much and they can move the ball on the ground, we’ll have a chance.
