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Bills’ quarterback Trent Edwards gets sacked by Browns’ linebacker Willie McGinest.
Mark Mulville/Buffalo News

11/18/08 06:59 AM

Bills-Browns Report Card

Grading the Bills

Story tools:

Running game

B Finally got things going after two bad games, though they continue to have problems on third-and-1. Jackson had 50 yards at halftime.

Passing game

F Edwards is regressing, threw three interceptions in first quarter to put team in big hole. Anyone seen Lee Evans, by the way?

Run defense

C-Did OK until allowing Harrison to break through for 72-yard TD on first play of fourth quarter. Shades of Willie Parker, Ahmad Bradshaw, etc.

Pass defense

B Quinn looked like a guy starting his second NFL game. Blitzes worked OK, but didn’t force turnovers or get big sacks. Special teams

B McKelvin first Bills rookie since Eric Moulds to return kickoff for touchdown. Moorman effective as usual.

Coaching

C Fewell’s blitzes were effective. Run game was better. But what are they thinking, going empty backfield on third-and-1?

Grading the Browns

Running game

B+ Lewis had another ordinary game. Harrison’s 72-yard TD run turned it into above-average game.

Passing game

C-Quinn had his moments, but isn’t ready for prime time. Like Bills, the Browns are suffering from lack of solid No. 2 receiver. Run defense

C Had their moments, but looked pretty soft on Bills’ TD drive in second quarter. Easy to see how they’ve allowed 4.7 yards per rush this year.

Pass defense

A-Edwards seemed confused with some coverages, and other times he simply threw Browns the ball. Pass rush pretty average.

Special teams

C-Normally strong kickoff return unit had trouble with McKelvin. Dawson hit four field goals. Coaching

C+ Browns are a mediocre team, but you can’t say they quit. Defense seemed well-prepared for Edwards and short passing game.

— Compiled by News football writers


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